What is a "Lip Flip" and Is It Better Than Filler?
When it comes to lip enhancement, dermal filler is usually the first thing that comes to mind. But lately, there is another trend dominating the aesthetic world in Oklahoma City: the Lip Flip.
Patients often come into KC Wellness asking for a Lip Flip because they want a subtle enhancement but are terrified of looking "overdone" or ending up with unnatural "duck lips" from filler.
But is a Lip Flip actually a replacement for filler? Not exactly. They are two completely different treatments that use different products to achieve different goals. If you are looking for the perfect pout, here is the breakdown of which treatment is right for you.
The Lip Flip: Relax and Reveal
A Lip Flip does not use dermal filler at all. Instead, it uses a neuromodulator (like Botox or Dysport).
How it works: Kelli Cossey, RN, BSN, strategically injects a few tiny units of Botox into the orbicularis oris muscle (the muscle just above your upper lip). This gently relaxes the muscle.
The Result: When the muscle relaxes, it allows the top lip to gently "flip" upward and outward. It doesn't actually add any physical volume to your lips; it simply reveals more of your natural lip that was curling inward, making it look fuller.
Best For: Patients who feel their top lip disappears when they smile (a "gummy smile"), or those who want the most subtle, temporary enhancement possible.
The Longevity: Because we use very few units (and the mouth moves constantly), a Lip Flip typically lasts about 6 to 8 weeks. At $13.00/unit, it is a highly affordable, low-commitment treatment.
Lip Filler: Hydrate and Build
Dermal Fillers (like Juvéderm or Versa) are made of Hyaluronic Acid (HA), a hydrating gel that physically adds volume and structure beneath the skin.
How it works: The HA gel is injected directly into the body and borders of the lips to build structure, smooth vertical lip lines, and hydrate the tissue.
The Result: Actual, physical volume. It creates a softer, plumper lip and can correct deep asymmetries that a Lip Flip cannot fix.
Best For: Patients who have naturally thin lips, those who have lost lip volume due to aging, or anyone wanting long-lasting, defined results.
The Longevity: Lip filler ($750.00/syringe) typically lasts anywhere from 6 to 12 months.
Can You Do Both?
Absolutely! In fact, it is one of our favorite combinations. We can use a conservative amount of HA Filler to deeply hydrate the lips and build structural support, while using a few units of Botox to give the top lip that beautiful, upward flip when you smile.
The "Less is More" Promise
Whether you choose the quick relaxation of a Lip Flip or the hydrating volume of Dermal Filler, our philosophy at KC Wellness remains the same: we enhance your natural beauty. We will never overfill or push you to a look that doesn't fit your unique facial anatomy.
KC Wellness 13820 Wireless Way, Oklahoma City, OK 73134. (Located inside Refined OKC)
