Anti-Wrinkle · Lips
Lip Flip
A subtle reshaping of the upper lip — no filler, no volume added.
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About this treatment
What it does
The lip flip is one of the most misunderstood treatments in aesthetics — and one of the most quietly effective when done with restraint. A few small doses of botulinum toxin are placed along the upper lip border. The muscle relaxes, the lip rolls gently outward, and the pink part of your lip becomes more visible. Nothing is added.
It's important you understand what this is, and what it isn't. A lip flip is not a smaller, cheaper version of lip filler. Filler adds hyaluronic acid to create volume and lasts six to twelve months. A flip relaxes muscle, adds no volume, and lasts eight to twelve weeks. Different treatment, different mechanism, different result.
It suits clients who want a softer upper lip, less gum showing when they smile, or a refined alternative to filler. Choose based on what you actually want — not on price.
The Journey
From first conversation to settled result
- 01
Consultation
An unhurried conversation about what you want and whether a flip is the right treatment for it. We look at your lip at rest and when you smile, and discuss honestly whether filler, a flip, or a combination would suit you better. We never up-sell.
- 02
Treatment
Four to six small injections along the upper lip border. No anaesthetic needed — the sensation is a brief pinch each time. The whole thing takes around five minutes. You can return to your day immediately.
- 03
Recovery & Result
You'll see no change on the day. Botulinum toxin needs time — onset begins around day three, with the full settled result at two weeks. If you have an event in mind, book at least a fortnight ahead.
The Details
What to expect
Aftercare in brief
Caring for your result
Stay upright for 4 hours — no lying flat, no naps. No exercise, saunas, or hot baths for 24 hours. No alcohol for 24 hours. Avoid pressing or massaging the area for 48 hours. No facials, peels, or microneedling for 2 weeks. Gentle smiling and talking in the first few hours is encouraged — it helps the product engage.
Common Questions
You asked, we answered
Will I look like I've had filler?
No. A lip flip doesn't add volume — it relaxes the muscle so the lip rolls outward slightly. The change is subtle and most people will simply think you look well. If you want noticeable volume, filler is the right treatment.
Can I have a lip flip and lip filler together?
Yes — they complement each other beautifully when done thoughtfully. The flip enhances how the lip sits and moves; the filler adds structure where structure is wanted. We'd normally place the filler first and add the flip a fortnight later, so each result can be assessed on its own.
Why does it only last 8-12 weeks?
The lip is one of the most active muscles in the body — you use it constantly to talk, eat, and express. Higher muscle activity metabolises botulinum toxin faster than the forehead or crow's feet, where the same product can last 3-4 months. This is biology, not poor technique, and it's the same wherever you go.
Are there side effects I should know about?
Mild swelling or pinpoint bruising at the injection sites is normal and resolves within a few days. Very rarely, the upper lip can feel slightly heavy or affect speech for a short period — this is temporary and dose-related, which is why a careful, conservative approach matters. We'll discuss your full medical history at consultation.
Who isn't suitable for a lip flip?
It's not appropriate during pregnancy or breastfeeding, for clients with certain neuromuscular conditions, or for those who play a wind instrument professionally or rely on precise lip control for their work. We'll always have an honest conversation if it isn't right for you.
How soon before an event should I book?
At least 2 weeks. You won't see any change on the day, and the result builds gradually over the first fortnight. Book early — never the week of.
Ready when you are
Begin with a free consultation
Every consultation is free, unhurried, and entirely without obligation. Reach us in whichever way suits you best.