Reviewed by Dr. Chad Gilliam PA
Reading time: four minutes
As we move into 2026, lip enhancement continues to be one of the most requested aesthetic treatments, with lip flips and lip fillers leading the trend. While both enhance your lips, they work in very different ways: one relaxes the muscle with Botox for a subtle lift, while the other adds volume with filler for a plumper, more defined finish.
Lip Flip vs Lip Filler: What’s the Difference?
A lip flip uses a small amount of Botox injected into the upper lip muscle (orbicularis oris). This relaxes the muscle, allowing the upper lip to “flip” slightly upward and appear fuller. It doesn’t add volume, it just enhances the natural shape of your lips.
Lip filler uses hyaluronic acid-based dermal fillers, such as Juvederm or Volbella, to restore or add volume to the lips. This treatment can define the lip border, smooth fine lines, and enhance overall shape, creating a soft, natural-looking fullness.
Both procedures are quick and minimally invasive, but the technique, longevity, and results differ.
How a Lip Flip Works
A lip flip focuses on relaxing the muscles around your upper lip instead of adding volume. As the muscle softens, more of the inner lip and Cupid’s bow become visible when you smile, giving your lips a gently lifted, more defined look.
Best for:
- Subtle lip enhancement without added volume
- Softening the appearance of a gummy smile
- First-time patients interested in temporary lip treatments
Results appear gradually over 7–14 days and last about 2–3 months.
How Lip Filler Works
Lip fillers use hyaluronic acid, a naturally occurring substance in the body that helps retain moisture and create volume. When injected into the lips, it adds fullness, smooths fine lines, and refines lip shape for a balanced, natural-looking result. The treatment can be customized to achieve anything from a subtle plump to a more defined, contoured look.
Best for:
- Adding noticeable volume and definition
- Smoothing fine lines or correcting mild asymmetry
- Achieving results that last longer between treatments
Results are visible immediately and typically last 6–12 months, depending on the filler used and your body’s natural metabolism.
Pros and Cons of a Lip Flip
A lip flip can be a great option for subtle lip enhancement, but it is important to know its benefits and limitations before you decide.
Pros:
- Quick treatment with no downtime
- Cost-effective (requires only 4–8 units of Botox)
- Subtle, natural-looking results
- Ideal for first-timers or those hesitant about filler
Cons:
- Results are temporary (2–3 months)
- Results cannot be reversed, you have to wait for the Botox to wear off naturally
- Full effect takes up to two weeks
- Does not add volume
- May cause temporary stiffness when speaking or drinking
Pros and Cons of Lip Filler
Lip filler can create beautiful, defined results, but there are a few pros and cons to consider before your treatment.
Pros:
- Provides instant, longer-lasting results
- Adds real volume and definition
- Can correct lip asymmetry or vertical lines
- Customizable, choose subtle or dramatic enhancement
- Hyaluronic acid can be dissolved if you are not happy with the results
Cons:
- Higher cost than a lip flip
- More painful procedure
- Some swelling and bruising occurs after injections
Which Treatment Is Right for You?
A lip flip is a perfect option if you’re looking for a subtle change to your smile but aren’t ready to commit to filler. It’s a quick, easy way to get fuller-looking lips without breaking the bank.
However, if you’re looking for a more significant change, then lip filler is the way to go. It will give you longer-lasting results and a more dramatic transformation. So if you’re ready to take the plunge, lip filler is the treatment for you.
Many patients even combine both treatments to achieve a balanced, refined result.
Book a Consultation in Madison, AL
Schedule a consultation at Madison Wellness & Aesthetic Center to discuss your goals and find the treatment that best complements your features.
To book an appointment at our wellness center in Madison, AL, call (256) 248-9199 or visit us at 844 Slaughter Rd. Suite A, Madison, AL.
FAQs
Typically about 2–3 months before the Botox naturally wears off. The treatment helps relax the muscles around the upper lip, creating a natural enhancement without adding extra volume.
Most last between 6–12 months, depending on the filler type and your metabolism. This cosmetic procedure boosts lip volume and lip definition for noticeably fuller lips.
A lip flip requires no downtime. With filler, you may experience mild side effects like swelling or bruising for a few days.
A topical numbing cream helps minimize discomfort. You may feel mild pressure or pinching during the injections.
A lip flip offers a natural enhancement, while filler allows more noticeable lip definition and volume customization.
