Botox© and other similar products can be placed in the upper lip to produce the effects of a non-surgical lip lift. The problem with this technique is that the effects tend to be minimal. There are also risks associated with asymmetry and temporary functional problems with the mouth. A surgical lip lift with or without filler (e.g., hyaluronic acid, fat) is usually a superior approach to addressing concerns about the upper lip. Seek a fellowship-trained facial plastic surgeon to help determine the most appropriate treatment plan for you.
Is a Non-Surgical Lip Flip Worthwhile?
Dr. Jeffrey Harmon
The Use of Botox© or Similar Products Around the Mouth is Considered Off-Label
The use of Botox© or similar products around the mouth is considered an off-label use because it is not an FDA-approved location. This is not necessarily the reason to not undergo treatment here. For example, the FDA did not approve Botox© for use in the forehead until 2017 though it had been used safely and off-label in this location for many years prior.
The Effects of a Lip Flip Tend to Be Minimal
Only 1 – 2 units of Botox© are placed at this location. Like a non-surgical brow lift, the effects of placing such a small number of units – by necessity for reasons that will be discussed below – usually demonstrates minimal results.
Visible Asymmetry is Possible
When only 1 – 2 units of Botox© are injected in a site there is a risk of an asymmetry in effectiveness, either due to random effects of the medication or due to asymmetric placement of the medication. This can be visible though it can be corrected with the placement of additional units of Botox© at follow up.
Functional Problems of the Mouth are Possible
Patients are generally counseled that they may have trouble using straws or pursing their lips for a few days after the medication begins to work. However, these functional problems can last for the entirety of the effect of the treatment, which usually ranges from three to four months in most individuals.
A Non-Surgical Lip Flip is a Poor Reflection of the Benefits of a Surgical Lip Lift
A surgical lip lift can not only elevate the red portion of the lip but also reduce the length of the lip between the base of the nose and the red lip, working above to the muscle. In contrast, Botox© is placed directly in the ring-shaped muscle around the mouth, which is the reason why the potential problems described above can occur. The surgical lip lift can simultaneously improve the height of the red lip and correct the length of the lip between the base of the nose and red lip but also increase lip pout without over-projecting the lip.
Trust Your Face to a Facial Plastic Surgeon
It is important to seek a fellowship-trained specialist in plastic surgery of the face and neck when you have concerns about your face or neck.
Request a Consultation
Request a consultation with Dr. Harmon at Harmon Facial Plastic Surgery in Cincinnati. Visit our clinic. You will learn more about Dr. Harmon’s credentials, style, and approach. Build a relationship with our dedicated team. Do not stop at searching “plastic surgery near me.” Get in touch with us to learn more!
This blog post is for educational purposes only and does not constitute direct medical advice. It is essential that you have a consultation with a qualified medical provider prior to considering any treatment. This will allow you the opportunity to discuss any potential benefits, risks, and alternatives to the treatment.