When it comes to enhancing the lips, today's aesthetic treatments offer multiple options tailored to unique needs and goals. Whether you're seeking subtle plumpness, more defined contours, or a lifted appearance, understanding the differences between a lip filler, a lip flip, and combining the two is key to achieving natural-looking, balanced results. At the Buckingham Center for Facial Plastic Surgery in Austin, TX, our board-certified surgeons and aesthetic injectors specialize in tailoring every lip enhancement procedure to harmonize with your facial anatomy.
Let’s explore the differences between these popular procedures to help you determine which one is best suited for your aesthetic vision.
What Is a Lip Filler?
Lip fillers are injectable dermal fillers—typically made with hyaluronic acid—that add volume and definition to the lips. They are ideal for patients who want fuller, shapelier lips or hope to correct asymmetry. At the Buckingham Center, our experienced injectors use products like JUVÉDERM®, Restylane®, and RHA to deliver personalized, natural-looking enhancement.
Benefits of lip fillers include:
- Added volume to the upper and lower lips
- Improved lip shape and symmetry
- Smoothing of fine lines around the mouth
- Immediate results with little downtime
While effective, fillers must be maintained with periodic treatments, usually every 6 to 9 months, depending on the product and individual metabolism.
What Is a Lip Flip?
A lip flip involves injecting small amounts of BOTOX® or Dysport into the muscles above the upper lip. This temporarily relaxes the muscle, causing the upper lip to roll slightly outward and appear more visible. The result is a subtle enhancement that gives the illusion of a fuller lip without adding volume.
A lip flip is best for:
- Patients who want a more defined lip border
- Those looking for a less invasive or lower-cost alternative to fillers
- Individuals whose upper lips curl under when they smile
Results from a lip flip typically appear within a few days and last about 2 to 3 months.
Should You Combine Treatments?
In many cases, combining a lip flip with filler offers a more refined and balanced look. Fillers create volume and structure, while a lip flip enhances the visibility of the upper lip without added fullness. Together, they can:
- Add subtle lift and definition to the upper lip
- Soften vertical lip lines
- Enhance symmetry and projection
- Achieve results that look both youthful and natural
At the Buckingham Center, we tailor every lip enhancement plan to your unique goals. During your consultation, our team will assess your facial anatomy and discuss whether a standalone or combined approach is right for you.
Start Your Lip Journey at the Buckingham Center
Whether you're new to lip enhancement or considering a more balanced approach with filler and a lip flip, the specialists at the Buckingham Center for Facial Plastic Surgery in Austin, TX, are here to guide your journey. With over two decades of facial-focused expertise and a reputation for natural-looking results, our team ensures each patient receives the most appropriate treatment for their needs.
Schedule your consultation today and discover whether a lip filler, a lip flip, or both is the right step toward your perfect smile.
