Lip flips have become a popular non-surgical option for achieving a fuller, more enhanced lip appearance with no dermal fillers. People seeking subtle aesthetic treatments often favour this minimally invasive procedure for its ability to create a natural yet noticeable transformation.
Although the results can vary from person to person, the results of a lip flip last between 8-12 weeks, depending on your age, metabolism, and lifestyle factors.
Along with routine touch-up appointments every 2 to 3 months and maintaining quality aftercare, you can prolong the results of your lip flip.
A fuller, more natural-looking smile is just around the corner! A complimentary consultation with our team can help you achieve your desired results.
The Science of Lip Flips
A lip flip involves using botulinum toxin type A (commonly sold under brand names like Botox or Nuceiva). This neuromodulator temporarily relaxes the muscles around the lips, particularly the orbicularis oris muscle, which allows the top lip to roll slightly outward.
This subtle muscle relaxation creates the appearance of fuller lips without adding actual volume, making it a fantastic option for those who desire enhancement without using fillers.
The procedure itself is very simple. It involves a series of small injections above the upper lip. Your practitioner carefully and gently administers the treatment, targeting the muscle fibers to achieve the desired effect.
The process is quick, typically completed in under 15 minutes, and requires little to no downtime!
How Long Does the Treatment Last?
On average, a lip flip lasts approximately 8 to 12 weeks, though this can vary from person to person.
The longevity of the treatment depends on how quickly your body metabolizes the botulinum toxin and how active the targeted muscles are. People with faster metabolisms may find the effects of their treatment wear off slightly quicker.
Botulinum toxin works by blocking the nerve signals that cause muscle contractions. Over time, the body gradually metabolizes and eliminates the toxin, allowing the nerve signals and muscle activity to return to normal. The effect of the treatment begins to diminish after 6 weeks, and by 8 weeks, the targeted muscle regains full activity, at least in most people.
Certain factors can influence how long the lip flip lasts, such as:
- Age
- Metabolism
- Lifestyle habits (e.g., exercise frequency and hydration levels)
Although the effects of a lip flip are temporary, regular touch-ups can help maintain a consistent appearance. We recommend scheduling touch-up appointments every 2 to 3 months, depending on your personal preferences and how long the treatment typically lasts for you.
Waiting longer than this window may result in the treatment fully wearing off, requiring a new round of injections to achieve the initial results.
No one person is the same, which is why our team is happy to develop a treatment plan that aligns with your goals and balances safety with effectiveness. Overusing botulinum toxin can lead to muscle dependency.
Adhering to your practitioner’s recommendations for touch-up intervals can help you maintain your desired fullness.
Maintaining Your Lip Flip
Although metabolism plays a significant role in how long the results of your lip flip will last, there are ways you can maintain your treatment at home, without the expense of trying to manipulate your body’s basic metabolic process.
Here are some aftercare steps and habits that can help you maintain the integrity of the treatment for as long as possible:
- Avoid excessive heat exposure: High temperatures, such as those from saunas, hot tubs, and direct sunlight shortly after treatment, can accelerate the breakdown of botulinum toxin. Protecting your skin from heat can prevent the premature diminishing of the effects.
- Stay hydrated: Proper hydration helps maintain the elasticity and health of the skin around your lips, supporting the overall appearance of your lips post-treatment.
- Moderate exercise: While physical activity is important for overall health, high-intensity workouts can increase the body’s metabolism rate, potentially shortening the lifespan of botulinum toxin. Opt for moderate exercise to balance fitness and prolong treatment effects.
- Avoid vigorous lip movements immediately post-treatment: For the first 24 to 48 hours after your lip flip, try to minimize actions such as vigorous straw use, whistling, or excessive lip pursing. This can give the toxin more time to settle into the muscle effectively.
- Use quality lip care products: Incorporate a moisturizing lip balm or serum into your routine to keep your lips healthy. Consider products with SPF to prevent sun damage, which can exacerbate signs of aging around the lips.
Following these tips will help you enjoy the results of your lip flip, maximizing your treatment’s aesthetic and financial value!
Schedule a Complimentary Consultation Today
Many people prefer the natural-looking enhancement offered by a lip flip. However, it’s important to have realistic expectations. It’s a temporary treatment requiring slight maintenance, but its subtle and low-commitment nature can make it worthwhile!
Personalized medicine is revolutionizing healthcare, delivering tailored treatments and preventive strategies designed around your unique genetic makeup and lifestyle.
At Zulu Medical Cosmetics, we lead this innovative approach, focusing on your individual health and beauty needs. Achieving your desired smile is closer than you think. Connect with our team to schedule your complimentary consultation today!
