What is a lip botox procedure?

Botulinum toxin used in lip botox treatment works by blocking nerve-muscle conduction in the orbicularis oris muscle. This weakens the muscle, gently flipping the lips outward. Botox allows for subtle enhancement of the vermilion border and improvement of facial proportions.

During the Lip Flip procedure, botulinum toxin is precisely injected around the upper lip, leading to its elevation and optical enlargement. The result is fuller and more feminine lips without the need for fillers. A significant advantage of this procedure is also the smoothing of wrinkles around the mouth, making the face look younger.

Botulinum toxin treatment on the lips, known as Lip Flip, is recommended in several situations:

• having small lips,
• significant lip asymmetry,
• poor visibility of the vermillion border when speaking and smiling,
• narrow upper lip.

Botox gently lifts and accentuates the lip contour, which positively influences the proportions. It reduces so-called "smoker's lines" and enhances the overall facial appearance. As a result, the lips become larger and more attractive without the need for volumizing.

The lip Botox procedure has many advantages appreciated by individuals who care about the aesthetics of their appearance. The effects include:

• relaxation of the orbicularis oris muscle,
• natural lip augmentation by flipping the vermilion border,
• fuller and more sensual lips,
• improved facial proportions,
• facial rejuvenation.

Botox enables achieving a natural effect without the fear of lips looking overdone. A few days after the procedure, the first effects can be noticed. The lips appear fuller and more feminine. The treatment focuses on enhancing the lip contour, making them firmer without increasing their volume. The biggest advantage of this procedure is the subtle correction of the lip appearance while maintaining naturalness. Lip Flip is an excellent solution for lip asymmetry. The procedure helps to balance proportions, giving the face a better appearance.

A consultation with a doctor before deciding on lip augmentation with botox is extremely important. During the visit, the specialist evaluates the appearance of the lips and discusses expectations regarding the effects of the procedure. The doctor conducts a thorough medical interview, inquiring about any contraindications, such as:

• allergies,
• chronic diseases,
• medications being taken.

They also discuss possible side effects and risks associated with the entire procedure. This allows the patient to gain full knowledge about the course of the treatment and its potential consequences.

Understanding individual needs enables the doctor to develop a personalized action plan, increasing comfort and minimizing the risk of unwanted effects. Such a conversation dispels any doubts, preparing the patient to make an informed decision about undergoing the procedure.

The Lip Flip procedure, using botox on the lips, is quick and minimally invasive. It starts with thorough cleansing and disinfection of the area around the lips. The doctor then marks injection points on the patient's skin, ensuring the toxin reaches specific muscles. The injection is done using a very fine needle. To enhance comfort, a numbing cream can be applied to make the entire procedure painless.

The entire procedure usually takes about 10-15 minutes, or approximately 30-45 minutes if numbing is used.

Afterward, the patient receives skincare instructions. On the day of the Lip Flip, it is recommended to:

• Limit facial expressions,
• Avoid touching the lip area,
• Refrain from significant pressure and temperature changes (such as flying, diving, saunas, sunbathing).

Results typically become visible after a few days and last for 4-6 months. The procedure can be repeated after this time.

The cost of a lip botox procedure, known as the Lip Flip, can vary depending on the location and experience of the specialist. The price is also influenced by the amount of the used product. For your own safety, it is worth paying attention to the reputation of the clinic and the qualifications of the doctor who will perform the procedure. Usually, the price includes a consultation before the procedure and the entire procedure of administering botulinum toxin around the lips.

Contraindications for lip botox include several important factors affecting the safety and effectiveness of the procedure. Lip Flip cannot be performed on:

• individuals allergic to the ingredients of the preparation,
• patients with neuromuscular conduction disorders,
• individuals with blood clotting disorders,
• individuals with an active infection,
• women who are pregnant or breastfeeding,
• individuals taking certain medications, such as aminoglycosides, immunosuppressants, D-penicillamine.

Medications being taken can affect the course and effects of botox. Therefore, a detailed consultation with a physician before undergoing the procedure is important. The specialist will assess all potential health risks associated with the patient, helping to avoid unwanted side effects and ensure the safety of the entire process.

After a botox procedure on the lips, various side effects may occur. In most cases, they disappear within the first few days. The most common ones include:

• swelling,
• bruising,
• uneven distribution of the preparation,
• discomfort caused by the administration of the preparation without anesthesia.

If any concerning symptoms occur, it is advisable to consult the doctor who performed the procedure.

After lip botox treatment, various side effects may occur. In most cases, they subside within the first few days. The most common ones include:

• swelling,
• bruising,
• uneven distribution of the product,
• discomfort caused by the administration of the product without anesthesia.

If any concerning symptoms arise, it is advisable to consult with the doctor who performed the procedure.

1. Ghannam S, Bageorgou F. The Lip Flip for Beautification and Rejuvenation of the Lips. Journal of Drugs in Dermatology : JDD. 2022 Jan;21(1):71-76.
2. Noszczyk M., Cosmetic Care and Medical Cosmetology, PZWL Publishing, Warsaw 2019.