Thinking about a lip refresh but not sure where to start? Two in-office choices lead the way at Illume: the lip flip and lip filler. Both enhance your smile with little to no downtime. They work in very different ways, and that’s the key to choosing the right one for you.
What Is a Lip Flip?
A lip flip uses tiny doses of neuromodulator to relax the muscles that curl the upper lip inward. At Illume, this is performed with Botox® Cosmetic, Dysport® and Jeuveau®. When those fibers relax, more of the pink upper lip shows. The effect reads as a soft “lift” without adding volume.
What You’ll Notice
A slightly taller-looking upper lip
A softer, less “tucked under” smile
Subtle improvement for a mild gummy smile
How Long Does a Lip Flip Last?
Neurotoxins can take up to 2 weeks to take full effect
Most neurotoxins last up to 3-4 months
You may feel a small change when sipping through a straw or whistling the first few days
What Is Lip Filler?
Lip filler adds actual volume with a hyaluronic acid gel. Illume offers options such as Restylane Kysse®, Juvederm®, and Versa® to build shape, define borders, and smooth vertical lip lines. Your provider can focus on the cupid’s bow, the central “pillows,” or gentle symmetry fixes.
What You’ll Notice
More fullness and definition right away
Smoother vertical lines around the mouth
Custom shaping for balance and symmetry
How Long Does Lip Filler Last?
Results are immediate, with refinement over 1–2 weeks
Longevity often ranges 6–12 months depending on the product and your metabolism
Expect temporary swelling or a tiny bruise
Lip Flip vs. Lip Filler: The Core Differences
Goal
Lip Flip: Show more of the lip you already have
Lip Filler: Add volume and structure
Control
Lip Flip: Micro-adjusts muscle activity
Lip Filler: Precisely places volume where you want contour
Speed and Longevity
Lip Flip: Can take up to 2 weeks to take full effect, lasts 3-4 months on average
Lip Filler: Volume can be noticed right away and results can last up to a year
Budget and Maintenance
Lip Flip: Botox/Jeuveau is $10/unit, most patients average 4-12 units
Lip Filler: Half syringes start at $349, full syringes start at $549, results can last up to a year. You can gradually add more volume over time with lip filler.
Who Is a Good Candidate for Each?
Choose a lip flip if you want a very subtle change, prefer a low-commitment trial, or want a mild gummy-smile softening without added bulk. It pairs well if your lips already have decent volume but tend to tuck under when you smile.
Choose lip filler if you want visible fullness, a crisper border, or better symmetry. It is a great choice if lipstick bleeds into fine lines or if you want a hydrated, plush look that lasts longer between visits.
Can You Combine Lip Filler and a Lip Flip?
Yes. Many patients blend both for a polished yet natural result. A small lip flip can reveal the upper lip while a light amount of filler adds soft structure. Your Illume provider will design the order and dosing so the look stays balanced.
Beauty Tip: Add Skinvive to your lip treatment for a totally fresh complexion. Skinvive is a microdroplet hyaluronic acid treatment designed to improve cheek skin smoothness and hydration for an all-over glow.
What to Expect at Your Visit
Consultation: Share your goals and any reference photos. Your provider will assess lip shape, tooth show, symmetry, and how your lips move when you talk and smile.
Treatment:
Lip Flip: A few quick micro-injections above the upper lip
Lip Filler: Precise placement in targeted zones for shape and balance
Aftercare: Skip strenuous exercise the day of treatment. Keep the area clean. Avoid pressing or massaging unless your provider directs it. With filler, minor swelling is normal the first 24–48 hours.
Why Choose Illume
Your lips are unique. At Illume Cosmetic Surgery & MedSpa, treatment is customized to your anatomy and your style. Our experienced RN Injectors are highly-trained with consistent hands on training in partnership with Allergan and Galderma and our medspas are directly supervised by our Board Certified Plastic Surgeons. You will leave with realistic expectations, clear aftercare, and a touch-up plan that fits your calendar. If you want answers to more frequently asked questions about Illume, check out our FAQ page.
Ready to talk through a lip flip, lip filler, or a balanced combo?: Request an Appointment
