Botox Lip Flip: How Many Units Will You Need for Best Results?

by: Linda Robison / Facial Fitness Specialist @ ABZ

For a Botox lip flip, how many units are needed for best results?

Whether you're considering Botox lip enhancement, lip rejuvenation, or simply a subtle lip boost, understanding how many units of Botox you need for the lip flip procedure is key.

Why? Because injecting too many units into the lip area can lead to uncomfortable (temporary) side effects.

Most people need 4-6 units of Botox for a lip flip. The exact number depends on factors like your muscle strength and desired look, which I’ll cover later...

Botox lip flip how many units are needed for best results.

So, getting the dosage right is crucial, as I'll explain further in this article, along with pictures of my injections and before and after results.

If you've ever wanted a little boost for your lips without committing to expensive filler injections or lip augmentation, then a Botox lip flip treatment might be right for you.

This popular cosmetic procedure is favored because it's a cheap and fast way to give your pout a subtle enhancement.

But just how many units of Botox does it take to achieve those luscious results? Let's dive in and find out.

What is a Botox Lip Flip procedure?

First things first, let's break down what exactly a Botox lip flip entails.

Before and after illustration of Botox lip flip results.

Unlike traditional dermal fillers that add lip volume, a lip flip works by relaxing the muscles around your mouth. This causes your top lip to gently curl upward and your lower lip (if you get injections into the lower lip) to curl out and slightly downward.

This helps create the illusion of fuller lips without actually adding any volume. It's a non-surgical procedure that's quick, easy, and delivers natural-looking results.

Benefits of Botox lip flip for fuller lips

Unlike traditional lip fillers that provide volume, the Botox lip flip is a non-invasive lip enhancement technique that lifts and shapes the lips subtly. It's a simpler alternative to other lip augmentation procedures.

For someone like me, with naturally thin lips and a small mouth, this was the perfect solution. It helps define the shape of the lips with a more natural look than lip filler injections. 

Factors affecting Botox lip flip dosage

When it comes to lip flips, the number of units required can vary depending on factors like your facial features, desired effect, and the expertise of your injector.

The documented dosage ranges anywhere from 2 to 10 units. But, on average, most people will need between from 4 to 6 units.

Keep in mind that this is just a general guideline, and your healthcare provider will determine the exact dose based on your individual needs.

But here are some things to consider…

Key factors that affect how many units you need

Several factors can influence the amount needed, including:

Muscle Strength:

  • The strength of your orbicularis oris muscle, (the muscle that encircles your mouth), can affect how many units are needed to achieve the desired effect. If you have strong muscles, you may need a higher dosage.

Lip Shape and Size: 

  • The shape and size of your lips can also affect how many units are needed for a Botox lip flip. Those with thinner lips may need slightly more Botox to achieve a noticeable lift, while fuller lips may require fewer units for a natural enhancement.

Multiple Lip Fillers:

Desired Lip Flip Results:

  • If you're seeking a more dramatic enhancement, you'll likely need more units of Botox compared to someone who just wants a subtle lip lift. The final look depends on your personal goals and the strength of your lip muscles.

Ethnic Differences in Facial Anatomy:

  • Anatomical differences between people of different ethnic backgrounds can affect the dosage too. For example, studies show that people with Asian facial features might need a focused injection technique to get the best lip flip results because their muscle and lip shapes can be different from others.

But a word of caution here: It's always better to start with a smaller amount of units and asses the appearance of the lips after a week or so. If you're not happy, you can always get another injection. Why? See Side Effects below ...

A skilled injector will be able to assess your unique facial anatomy and recommend the appropriate dosage for optimal results.

Make sure to tell them your goals and your desired lip shape. Your age, medical history, and experiences with past Botox injections can also affect how many units are used.

What to expect during a lip flip procedure

Before and after Botox lip flip with 4 units.On my left, you can see the two dots where Mandi injected 2 units of Botox. Now, she's injecting 2 units on my right side. Note: I opted for an upper lip flip only.

Getting a lip enhancement treatment is a relatively quick and straightforward process.

  • Your injector will start by cleaning the treatment area and may apply a topical numbing cream for added comfort. Note: I didn't need numbing cream.
  • Using a thin needle, they'll carefully inject the Botox into specific points along the upper lip (two on the left and two on the right).
  • You may feel a slight pinch or sting, but the discomfort is minimal and short-lived.

The whole procedure took less than 5 minutes.

Lip flip: After care, recovery, and results

There's typically no downtime involved, and you can resume your normal activities right away. The biggest issue I experienced was two small red dots at the injection sites. Which is easily covered up with makeup.

lip flip RIGHT after injection.This is the extent of my recovery from a lip flip. Two small blood dots on either side of my lips.

After Care:

Here are some tips for post-treatment care:

  • Avoid touching or rubbing the treated area for at least 24 hours after the procedure to prevent spreading the Botox to unintended areas.
  • Refrain from strenuous physical activity, excessive sun exposure, and saunas for at least 24 to 48 hours post-treatment to reduce the risk of swelling or bruising.
  • Avoid consuming alcohol and blood-thinning medications for a few days after the procedure to minimize the risk of bruising.
  • Apply ice packs to the treated area intermittently for the first few hours after the procedure if you have any swelling and discomfort.
  • Be mindful of your facial expressions and avoid exaggerated movements of the lips for the first few days post-treatment to allow the Botox to settle properly.

Results:

Full effects are usually seen within 7-14 days as your lip(s) curls outward, giving you the pouty look you desire. You might feel the lip curling before it's visible, but be patient—it will happen.

So, below is my after picture taken 8 days after injection.

Looking back at my results, maybe I could have had more units injected for more lip projection. But, I'm happy with my results. At my age, going BIG on any procedure is not a good idea. I think small, subtle improvements always look better.😉

But, that's the beauty of starting small, as you can always add more. 

My Botox lip flip injection being administered for lip enhancement.My Botox Lip Flip results. This is the result of getting 4 units injected into the upper lip.

FAQ: Botox lip flip: How many units

Q: What is a lip flip 5 units all about?

A: That's where 5 units of botulinum toxin are injected into the lip area. This is considered a normal dose for most people.

Q: How long does 4 units of lip flip last?

A: The duration of a lip flip's effects can differ from person to person. While online sources may suggest it lasts around 4-6 months, many individuals report noticing the effects fading between 4-6 weeks. Personally, I've found that it typically lasts about 6-8 weeks for me.

Q: Can you get too much Botox for lip flip?

A: Yes! That's why it's important to see a qualified injector who has experience with this cosmetic procedure. Remember, it's always better to start with a small amount and add more. However, if you get too many units, you'll have to wait for the botulinum toxin to wear off, which can several weeks. See potential side effects below.

Q: How fast does a lip flip kick in?

A: Full results are usually seen in about 7 days. But, sometimes you may feel the lip curling upward in a few days. I do.

Q: How can I make my lip flip last longer?

A: Come in for regular treatments before it wears off. The more often you do so, the better the chances of it lasting longer.

Q: Does it affect kissing?

A: Yes, a lip flip can potentially affect kissing by slightly altering the movement and sensation of the lips. But, most people adjust to it and have no problems.

Q: Who's not a good candidate for a flip?

A: People with allergies to botulinum toxin, certain medical conditions, unrealistic expectations, or active infections in the treatment area. It's important to check with a qualified medical professional if you have any of these issues.

Question: What is a Russian lip flip?

Answer: A Russian lip flip targets more muscles than a regular lip flip. The Russian technique involves injecting Botox into multiple areas around the upper lip, including various muscles that affect lip movement and contour. This broader targeting creates a more defined, lifted appearance.

In contrast, a regular lip flip usually focuses on a few specific spots along the upper lip, mainly relaxing the orbicularis oris muscle to achieve a subtle flip and fuller look. So, the Russian lip flip involves a more comprehensive approach to shaping the lip.

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Potential side effects

Side effects are common in this cosmetic treatments, but they're usually rare and mild. They include:

  • temporary bruising or swelling at the injection sites
  • mild discomfort or tenderness
  • difficulty drinking from a straw or puckering your lips

These subside within a few days and can be easily managed with over-the-counter pain relievers and ice packs.

Note: Having 4 units injected into the upper lip, I did not experience any of these side effects. Remember, results will vary from person to person.

Rare but Severe Side Effects

Receiving more units than needed may lead to rare but severe side effects, such as:

  • over-relaxation of muscles, affecting facial expressions
  • asymmetry in lip appearance, resulting in an imbalanced smile
  • difficulty speaking and eating due to muscle impairment
  • potential loss of sensation in the lips
  • longer recovery time with prolonged swelling and discomfort

How long does lip flip last

Typically, a lip flip lasts around three to four months, though for some people it could last up to four months.

Why the difference?

Several factors can affect how long it lasts, including:

  • the speed at which your body metabolizes the Botox
  • how strong or active your lip muscles are
  • and the injection technique utilized

But, the best way to maintain and prolong the results, is to get touch-up treatments every few months.

Note: In my experience, getting touch-ups can make your results last much longer. That means you won't need as many injections, and you won't have to get them as often. And it's not just true for lip flips—it works for Botox injections in other parts of your face too.

How much does it cost

Generally, a lip flip is not expensive. But prices vary depending on where you live and who does your injections.

Also, the cost of a lip flip procedure can vary depending on the type of neurotoxin used (e.g., Botox, Dysport, Xeomin), the amount (units) of product required.

My cost, at the time of injection, was $15 per unit of Botox. So, IMO, $60 for adding a little more pucker to my pout is not bad.😉

More beauty lip tips

If you're thinking about a Botox lip flip for fuller lips, don’t forget to nourish them! Try this DIY lip balm recipe to keep your lips soft, hydrated, and healthy between treatments.

Want to keep your lips looking youthful naturally? Check out these anti-aging lip care tips for simple ways to reduce lip wrinkles, boost lip hydration, and at-home exercises to enhance lip volume for fuller lips.

Final Takeaway: Botox Lip Flip: How Many Units Will You Need?

If you're looking to enhance the appearance of your lips with a subtle touch, a Botox lip flip could be just the ticket.

You can achieve fuller-looking lips and a more youthful smile with just a few units, without the commitment or cost of traditional lip filler injections. While the dosage can vary, the most common range is between 4-6 units.

Also, a skilled injector might recommend a microdosing technique, starting with fewer units (2-3) and gradually adding more to achieve a natural-looking result without compromising movement.

Regardless of what you read online about the amount of units needed for a lip flip, make sure you consult with a qualified healthcare provider to discuss your goals.

With the right approach, you can enjoy natural-looking results that enhance your overall appearance and boost your confidence.



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