Botox has firmly established itself as a top-three most popular cosmetic procedure. This is expected since it has an amazing ability to smooth wrinkles and rejuvenate facial features.

Beyond its traditional uses, Botox continues to evolve, and practitioners find new applications for different needs. One such innovative application gaining significant traction is the “lip flip.”

In short, it is injecting Botox into areas around the lips. This technique should improve contour of the lips and overall appearance.

This procedure is particularly favored for its minimal invasiveness, so let’s dive into the specifics of the lip flip procedure, highlighting the exact injection points and techniques required.

Where To Inject Botox for a Lip Flip

Unlike traditional lip fillers, which add volume, a lip flip gently relaxes the muscles around the upper lip, allowing it to roll outward slightly.

Targeting the orbicularis oris muscle is the main goal when aiming to achieve subtle enhancement. There are also more injection points, so let’s analyze each one.

Cupid’s Bow Area

The central part of the upper lip, known as Cupid’s bow, is the place of greatest importance. Injecting Botox here elevates the center of the upper lip. This area is essential for achieving the characteristic “flip” that gives the upper lip a fuller appearance without adding volume.

Upper Lip Center

Midway between the Cupid’s bow and the corners of the mouth, this area benefits from Botox to enhance the lip’s fullness. Injections here help maintain a balanced and symmetrical look, ensuring the entire upper lip has a uniform outward roll.

Corners of the Mouth

Injecting Botox at the corners of the mouth prevents the lips from drooping. These injections counteract the downward pull that can make the lips look aged or sad. That’s the way to create better expression and overall facial harmony.

Anatomy of the Lips

We already mentioned the orbicularis oris muscle, a complex circular muscle around the mouth. It is integral to lip movements and expressions. This muscle functions as a sphincter, controlling the movements of the lips, like puckering, closing, and other expressions.

The orbicularis oris muscle is divided into four quadrants: upper right, upper left, lower right, and lower left. Each quadrant plays a specific role in lip movement and expression.
In addition to the orbicularis oris, several other muscles influence lip movement and appearance. These include the levator labii superioris, which helps elevate the upper lip, and the depressor anguli oris, which pulls the corners of the mouth downward.

Understanding those muscles and their relationship will prevent complications, which in most cases are lip drooping or asymmetry. For example, improper injection into the orbicularis oris will cause uneven muscle relaxation, resulting in an asymmetrical appearance or functional issues.

Injection Techniques and Dosage

The typical Botox dosage for a lip flip ranges from 4 to 6 units across the injection points. The dose can be adjusted according to personal factors (lip thickness, muscle activity, and the patient’s aesthetic goals), but the optimal amount is very important. Administering too little Botox may result in insufficient enhancement, while too much impairs lip movements, leading to difficulties in speaking, eating, or expressing emotions.

Once the dose is determined, the practitioner marks the precise injection sites on the patient’s lips using a fine marker. Then, a very fine needle is used to inject Botox at a shallow depth. The shallow depth allows Botox to reach the muscle fibers that control the movement of the upper lip without penetrating too deeply, which could affect surrounding tissues.

Also, attention must be paid to the angle of penetration. The needle is angled slightly upwards when injecting into the upper lip to follow the natural contour and muscle alignment.

Here is a detailed step-by-step process:

• Preparation: The patient’s lips are cleaned and prepared to ensure a sterile environment. A topical anesthetic is often applied to minimize discomfort.
• Marking: The practitioner uses a marker to outline the key injection points: the Cupid’s bow, upper lip center, and corners of the mouth.
• Injection: The practitioner injects small amounts of Botox into each marked site with a fine needle. The injections are administered at a shallow depth and specific angles to effectively target the orbicularis oris muscle.
• Post-Injection Care: After completing the injections, patients must follow aftercare instructions, such as avoiding touching the treated area and refraining from strenuous activities for the first 24 hours.

In Conclusion

When Botox is placed into certain parts of the lips, a delicate roll-out effect can be achieved, improving the lip’s appearance without the need for dermal filler products or more invasive surgical options.

Understanding the precise injection points and the underlying anatomy is absolutely crucial. For practitioners, proper training is the first step. Engaging in specialized courses and obtaining certification ensures they are well-versed in the latest techniques and safety protocols.

As the popularity of the lip flip continues to grow, patients should also stay up-to-date with the latest advancements and best practices. Our blog is your go-to source for staying informed about the newest trends and advancements in cosmetic industry and procedures.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

How long do the results of a Botox lip flip typically last?

The results of a Botox lip flip usually last between 2 to 3 months, shorter than regular dermal lip fillers. Over time, the Botox gradually wears off, and muscle activity returns to normal. It would be best to have follow-up treatments for longer results.

Can a Botox lip flip help with a gummy smile?

Yes, a Botox lip flip can help reduce the appearance of a gummy smile. By relaxing the muscles around the upper lip, the lip can cover more of the gums when smiling, providing a more balanced and aesthetically pleasing smile.

Is a Botox lip flip suitable for all skin types and ages?

A Botox lip flip is suitable for most skin types and can be performed on adults of various ages. However, consulting with a qualified practitioner is important to check for hidden contraindications and ensure it’s appropriate for your specific needs and aesthetic goals.

Are there any medical conditions that would make someone ineligible for a Botox lip flip?

Certain medical conditions, such as neuromuscular disorders (e.g., myasthenia gravis) and allergies to Botox ingredients, can make someone ineligible for a Botox lip flip. Pregnant or breastfeeding women are also advised to avoid Botox treatments.

References

Teixeira JC, Ostrom JY, Hohman MH, Nuara MJ. Botulinum Toxin Type-A for Lip Augmentation: “Lip Flip”. J Craniofac Surg. 2021 May 1;32(3):e273-e275. doi: 10.1097/SCS.0000000000007128. PMID: 33170825.
Li Y, Chong Y, Yu N, Dong R, Long X. The use of botulinum toxin A in upper lip augmentation. J Cosmet Dermatol. 2021 Jan;20(1):71-74. doi: 10.1111/jocd.13731. Epub 2020 Oct 26. PMID: 32969573.