Procedures
Lip Flip
For years, people have been seeking ways to enhance the natural beauty of their lips. Among the various options like lip fillers, implants, and surgical augmentation, the Lip Flip stands out as a quick and minimally invasive procedure. It has become increasingly popular as more people look for ways to achieve fuller lips without making a significant investment in time, money, or enduring lengthy recovery periods.
The Lip Flip is an excellent option for those who are new to cosmetic treatments or want to test the waters before committing to more permanent procedures. It’s also ideal for people who are not looking to drastically alter their appearance but want just a little enhancement to bring balance to their facial features. In a world where social media often dictates beauty standards, the Lip Flip offers a way to achieve a more photogenic look without going to extreme lengths.
Plastic Surgeon Anca Breahna performs a range of surgical and non-surgical procedures at Cheshire Cosmetic Surgery in Chester UK.
At a glance
10-20 minutes
Topical Anaesthetic
A few days
Every 2 to 4 months
Table of Contents
What Is Lip Flip
The term “Lip Flip” may sound a bit casual, but it refers to a minimally invasive cosmetic procedure that enhances the appearance of your lips. It differs significantly from lip fillers or surgical lip augmentation. In a Lip Flip, a small amount of neuromodulators are injected just above the upper lip. This relaxes the muscles around the lip area, causing the lip to roll slightly outward, creating a fuller and more defined pout.
The procedure is quick, typically taking around 10 to 20 minutes. It’s also less expensive than many other cosmetic treatments for the lips. Another advantage is that it usually involves little to no downtime. However, it’s essential to remember that the results are temporary and typically last between 2 to 4 months.
- A neuromodulator is used for the Lip Flip procedure
- Usually takes 10-20 minutes
- Generally, more affordable compared to other lip treatments
- Results last for about 2 to 4 months
Who Needs Lip Flip
Not everyone needs or would benefit from a Lip Flip. It’s particularly well-suited for individuals who:
- Feel their upper lip looks too thin or flat
- Want to enhance their lips without making a drastic change
- Prefer a minimally invasive procedure over surgical option
- Wish for a temporary solution rather than a permanent alteration
You should be in good general health before undergoing any cosmetic procedure. Individuals with specific muscle or nerve conditions, such as Bell’s palsy or certain kinds of facial nerve disorders, may not be suitable candidates. Pregnant and breastfeeding women should also avoid this treatment.
- Health Status: Good general health is needed
- Pre-existing Conditions: Those with specific muscle or nerve conditions may not be ideal candidates
- Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: Not recommended for pregnant or breastfeeding women
Benefits of the Lip Flip Procedure
The Lip Flip procedure has been growing in popularity for a variety of reasons. One of the main draws is its simplicity. Below are some more advantages:
- Quick and Simple: The treatment is fast, often completed within a lunch break, meaning you can get back to your daily activities almost immediately
- Non-invasive: As there are no incisions or sutures, there’s less concern about scarring or complications arising from a more invasive procedure
- Cost-effective: Compared to other lip enhancement options like fillers or surgery, Lip Flip is relatively affordable
- Natural Look: It offers a subtler, more natural enhancement than you might get with fillers or surgery. The outward roll of the upper lip allows for a more balanced look without drastically altering your appearance
- Temporary: If you’re not sure about committing to the look, the temporary nature of the results allows you to test the waters without a long-term commitment
How is the Lip Flip Procedure Performed
The Lip Flip procedure is straightforward and quick, typically taking no longer than 20 minutes. Here’s a general outline of what you can expect:
Consultation
- Purpose: The consultation is your opportunity to discuss your beauty goals, expectations, and any concerns you might have
- Health History: Anca will ask about your medical history to ensure that you are a suitable candidate for the procedure
- Plan: You’ll discuss which neuromodulator would be best for you and how much will be used
Preparation
- Cleaning: The skin around your upper lip will be cleaned thoroughly to minimise the risk of infection
- Numbing Cream: Often, a topical numbing cream is applied to the area to make sure you’re comfortable during the injection
Injection
- Needle Size: A very fine needle is used to minimise discomfort and the possibility of bruising
- Injection Points: Anca will inject small amounts of the chosen neuromodulator above your upper lip. The exact number of injections will depend on your specific needs
- Duration: This part of the procedure is quite fast, usually taking less than five minutes
Observation
- Immediate Assessment: After the injection, Anca will monitor you for a few minutes to make sure there are no immediate complications
- Adjustments: If necessary, minor adjustments could be made at this stage
Recovery after Lip Flip Procedure
After undergoing a Lip Flip, you’ll be pleased to know that the recovery process is usually straightforward and hassle-free. You can typically resume your normal activities immediately, though there are some things to keep in mind:
- Immediate Care: You might experience some redness or minor swelling at the injection site, but these symptoms usually subside within a few hours
- Activity Level: While you can return to most activities right away, it’s advised to avoid strenuous exercise for at least 24 hours following the procedure
- Facial Expressions: Try to minimise extreme facial expressions for a couple of days to allow the neuromodulator to settle in properly
- Food and Drink: It’s a good idea to avoid excessive chewing or drinking through straws for about a day to ensure the treated muscles aren’t overly stressed
- Sun Exposure: Direct sun and heat exposure should be avoided for at least 24 hours after the procedure, as they could exacerbate any potential side effects
- Follow-Up: Anca will recommend a follow-up appointment to check on the results and determine if additional treatments are needed
Remember to follow any aftercare guidelines given to you by your plastic surgeon for optimal results.
Further Reading
- Read Anca’s Blog on All You Need to Know about Lip Fillers
- Read Anca’s Blog on How to Reduce Swelling after Lip Fillers
- Read Anca’s Blog on Lip Fillers Aftercare
- Read Anca’s Blog on Treatments and Solutions for Thin Lips
- Read Anca’s Blog on Recovery after Dermal Fillers
Procedure
Frequently asked questions
How long do the results of a lip flip last?
The results of a Lip Flip typically last between 2 to 4 months. Since the effects are temporary, you’ll need to return for additional treatments if you want to maintain the look.
Are there any side effects I should be aware of?
Common side effects are usually minor and may include redness, swelling, or bruising at the injection site. These effects are generally short-lived and subside within a few days. More serious side effects are rare but can include allergic reactions or muscle weakness.
Can I combine a lip flip with other lip treatments?
Yes, it’s possible to combine a Lip Flip with other treatments like fillers for a more dramatic effect. However, it’s essential to consult a talented and experienced plastic surgeon for personalised advice on combining treatments.
How soon will I see results?
You may notice some immediate changes, but the full effects generally set in within 3 to 5 days after the procedure. It’s during this time that the neuromodulator takes effect, causing the lip to flip out slightly and appear fuller.
Is the procedure painful?
Most people report minimal discomfort during the Lip Flip procedure, often describing it as a quick pinch or sting. A numbing cream is usually applied beforehand to minimise any discomfort.
What are the risks of lip flip procedure?
Like any medical procedure, the Lip Flip comes with its set of risks, though they are generally minimal. Being aware of these can help you make an informed decision.
- Temporary Numbness: Some people experience a slight numbness in the treated area, but this typically subsides within a few hours
- Asymmetry: There’s a chance that the neuromodulator might not spread evenly, leading to asymmetrical results. However, this is usually corrected during the follow-up appointment
- Allergic Reactions: While rare, there’s always the risk of an allergic reaction to the neuromodulator used
- Muscle Weakness: Though infrequent, some people report temporary muscle weakness in or around the area that was treated
- Bruising: There may be minor bruising at the injection site, but this usually clears up within a few days
- Effect Duration: The results are temporary, lasting between 2 to 4 months. You’ll need to repeat the procedure if you wish to maintain the results
