For individuals seeking a subtle enhancement to their smile and lip fullness without committing to dermal fillers, the Lip Flip offers a sophisticated, non-surgical alternative. This technique is designed to subtly enhance the shape and definition of the upper lip, creating a beautifully natural pout and reducing the visibility of a "gummy smile."
At Coastline Plastic Surgery, Dr. Brandyn Dunn, a board-certified facial plastic surgeon, utilizes his detailed knowledge of facial muscular anatomy to perform the Lip Flip with precise control. This approach ensures that your results are effortlessly subtle, enhancing the visibility of your natural lip without altering its actual volume.
The Lip Flip is a cosmetic treatment that uses a very small dose of a neuromodulator (such as Botox, Dysport, or Xeomin) to temporarily relax a specific part of the orbicularis oris muscle—the ring of muscle that encircles the mouth.
When the upper part of this muscle is relaxed, it allows the lip to roll slightly upward and outward. This action exposes more of the pink-red portion of the lip (the vermillion border), making the lip appear fuller and more defined while maintaining a natural, soft feel. Importantly, the Lip Flip does not add physical volume to the lips, distinguishing it fundamentally from lip fillers.
Treatment | Mechanism | Effect | Longevity |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lip Flip | Relaxes muscle (Neuromodulator) | Creates the illusion of fullness by exposing more lip surface | 8–12 Weeks |
| Lip Filler | Adds volume (Hyaluronic Acid) | Creates actual physical volume and structure | 6–12 Months |
The Treatment Process
The procedure requires minimal preparation and is virtually painless:
When Results Appear
The neuromodulator takes time to settle and take effect. You will begin to notice the subtle upward "flip" of your lip within 3 to 7 days, with the full, final result visible around two weeks. The new shape will become most apparent when you smile, revealing a natural, enhanced upper lip and less gumline.
Expected Longevity
Because the Lip Flip uses a very small amount of product in a high-motion area, the duration of results is shorter than traditional neuromodulator treatments (like forehead anti-wrinkle injections) or dermal fillers. The results typically last between 8 and 12 weeks. Regular touch-up treatments are required to maintain the desired subtle pout.
If you are seeking a subtle yet impactful enhancement to your upper lip definition and smile without adding volume, the Lip Flip is an excellent option. Trust the anatomical expertise of a board-certified facial plastic surgeon to deliver a safe, precise, and beautiful outcome.
Schedule your personalized consultation with Dr. Brandyn Dunn today and discover the artistry of the non-surgical Lip Flip.
Contact our office at (949) 849-0336 or use our online booking tool to request an appointment for a Lip Flip.
