Lip Flip vs. Lip Filler: What’s the Difference?

A lip flip and lip filler can both change how your lips look, but they work in very different ways. Here is a plain-language comparison to help you decide what to ask about at a consultation.

What is a lip flip?

A lip flip uses a very small amount of botulinum toxin (such as Botox) along the upper lip border. It relaxes the small muscle that pulls the upper lip in, so the lip may roll slightly outward and look a little fuller, and less of the upper teeth and gum may show when you smile. It does not add volume.

What is lip filler?

Lip filler is an injectable gel, often made from hyaluronic acid, placed in the lips to add volume, refine shape or improve balance. Unlike a lip flip, it changes the lips by adding product rather than by relaxing a muscle.

Side by side

• How it works: a lip flip relaxes a muscle; filler adds product.
• Volume: a lip flip adds none, though the upper lip can look a little fuller; filler can add volume and definition.
• Often discussed for: a lip flip for a subtle change to the upper lip; filler for volume, shape and symmetry.
• How long it lasts: both are temporary, and how long varies by person and product.
• If you do not like it: a lip flip wears off on its own; hyaluronic acid filler can usually be dissolved.

Things to know about each

• With a lip flip, the upper lip can feel different for a while. Some people notice it is harder to sip through a straw, whistle or smile the way they are used to until it wears off.
• With lip filler, swelling, tenderness and some bruising are common at first, and the lips look and feel different while they settle.
• Both are medical treatments with risks, so choose a licensed, trained provider and share your health history.

Which one might suit you?

If you want a small, subtle change to the upper lip, a lip flip is often what people ask about. If you want volume, shape or definition, filler is usually the conversation. Some people combine approaches. The right choice depends on your anatomy and your goals, so it is made at a consultation.

Is a lip flip right for you?

If a lip flip interests you, ask Irina whether it is right for you. At NewFaceGlow in Oceanside, Irina Mogilner, RN, BSN, MSN, starts with your goals and a facial assessment, then explains the options that may suit you and the ones that may not. Results vary.

Questions to ask at your consultation

• Would a lip flip, filler or a combination suit my goals?
• What can I realistically expect, and for how long?
• What are the possible side effects, and what should I do if I have a concern?
• If I choose filler, which product will be used and can it be dissolved?

Lip filler cost: what affects the price →

Baby Botox on Long Island →