Lip Flip vs. Lip Filler: What’s the Difference?

Lip Flip vs Lip Filler: What’s the difference between a lip flip and lip filler, and who’s an ideal candidate for each?

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Fuller, more defined lips are one of the most requested aesthetic treatments — and it’s easy to see why. But when it comes to enhancing your lips, the options aren’t one-size-fits-all. Two of the most popular treatments, the lip flip and lip filler, each offer distinct results, and knowing the difference can help you make the most informed decision for your goals. 

We sat down with Houston-based Nurse Injector and Advanced Practice Nurse Marcy Bouillion, one of our experienced providers, to break down exactly how each treatment works, who makes an ideal candidate, and whether doing both at the same time might be the right move for you.

What Is a Lip Flip?

“A lip flip is the aesthetic term utilized when we inject or place a neuromodulator, such as Botox, in the actual muscle that surrounds the lips and mouth area,” shares Bouillion. “This muscle is called the Orbicularis Oris, and is responsible for many things, such as movement to form words and talk, the ability to shape the mouth to eat, laugh, and drink out of a straw, for example.”

So, how does a neuromodulator work in the lip? Bouillion explains:

“When a neuromodulator is placed in the top portion of this muscle – at the border of the upper lip – it relaxes the muscle, inhibiting it from contracting or being as strong and active. When this occurs, we see a ‘flip’ of the lip upwards, as this muscle is not contracting to pull the lip tissue down as much.”

How Many Units of Botox Units Are Used for a Lip Flip?

According to Bouillion, the average number of units typically used for a Botox Lip Flip is 4, each placed in 4 areas. The four areas include sections of the lateral portion of the lip and towards the middle, near the Cupid’s bow. Some individuals might require a few more units for the desired result. 

As with any treatment, individual results vary. 

What Is Lip Filler?

Bouillion states, “Lip filler is most commonly a Hyaluronic Acid (HA) filler, such as Juvederm, which is placed in the lip tissue to enhance and augment overall volume. These amazing HA fillers also supplement and help with hydration in our lips – improving lines and wrinkles in the lips as well. Lastly, we can also sometimes use HA fillers for subtle correction of shape and asymmetry, enhancing the balance of our facial features.”

Can You Do a Lip Flip and Lip Filler at the Same Time?

Is it possible to get a lip flip and lip filler together? The answer is absolutely yes, according to Bouillion:

“You absolutely can do both at the same time. In fact, we often recommend this. When you place a neurotoxin such as Botox for the lip flip, it keeps the muscle more relaxed and lifted. These results mean the tissue allows the filler placed in the lip to settle more effectively.”

Who Is an Ideal Candidate for a Lip Flip and Lip Filler?

Whether a lip flip vs filler is your best option, Bouillion emphasizes that “an in-person individual assessment is so important to best determine which one, or both, are great options for you.” 

“Specifically, if you desire more volume overall, as well as some hydration benefits, then considering filler in the lips would be best, explains Bouillion. “If you are feeling more like starting with something more subtle and less noticeable, then starting with just a lip flip would maybe be ideal.” 

If it’s decided that lip filler is the best option, the next step is to decide on the type of filler.

“Determining which filler is best for you is definitely an individual conversation to have with your provider,” shares Bouillion. “Some fillers offer more hydration than others, and some offer more lift and smoothness than others.”  

How Much Does a Lip Flip Cost?

The cost of a lip flip is typically straightforward, since it uses a fixed number of Botox units. Most lip flips require around 4 units of Botox, so pricing will generally follow your provider’s per-unit rate. The price of Botox at DermaTouch RN ranges from $10.00 to $12.50 per unit, depending on the number of units purchased and membership status. 

As with any neuromodulator treatment, costs can vary depending on your geographic location, the experience level of your provider, and the brand of neurotoxin used. The best way to get an accurate quote is to schedule a consultation, where your provider can assess your individual needs and walk you through pricing.

How Much Does Lip Filler Cost?

Lip filler pricing is typically based on the amount of product used, usually priced per syringe, which can range anywhere from $500 to $1000 on average. The total cost will depend on factors such as which filler is recommended for your goals — for example, a Juvederm lip filler product focused on hydration versus one designed for lift and definition — as well as your provider’s experience and location. 

Since lip filler is highly customizable, the number of syringes needed will vary from person to person, with a half to one syringe being the most common. A consultation is the best way to get a personalized treatment plan and a clear picture of what to expect in terms of costs.

Ready to Schedule a Lip Flip and Lip Filler Consultation?

Whether you’re drawn to the subtle, natural lift of a lip flip or the added volume and hydration of lip filler, the most important first step is a personalized consultation. As Bouillion emphasized, every face is unique — and the best treatment plan is one that’s tailored specifically to you. 

Ready to find out which option is right for your lips? If you’re searching on terms like “lip flip near me” or “Juvederm lip filler near me,” DermaTouch RN has been offering Botox and lip filler services for nearly two decades. 

Schedule a consultation with our team today and let us help you put your best smile forward. Book online or call 210-538-1283 (San Antonio) or 281-720-8718 (Houston) to get started on your lip injection journey.

*Pricing included is current as of the posting date of this blog. For current pricing and specials, contact the clinic or visit www.dermatouchrn.com/pricing. 

Marcy Bouillion, MSN, FNP-BC

NURSE INJECTOR/ADVANCED PRACTICE NURSE

Marcy graduated with a Bachelor‘s in Nursing from the University of Louisiana and a Master’s in Science and Nursing from Chamberlain University. She has background experience in Labor and Delivery/Critical Prenatal Care, Women’s health, and Cardiac/Vascular cosmetic procedures. Marcy has had extensive hands-on training with the Allergan Medical Institute, SkinMedica, and Dr. Teller. All include education in courses pertaining to Neuromodulators, Dermal Fillers, as well as advanced training in anatomy and physiology of the face and head.