Which Lip Enhancement Procedure is Right for You? A Guide to Lip Job vs Lip Lift vs Lip Flip

When considering lip enhancement procedures, it's essential to understand the differences between a lip job, lip lift, and lip flip. A lip job is a lip surgery typically involving fillers to increase volume and shape. By surgically reducing the distance between the upper lip and the nose, a lip lift can improve the natural lip contour and reveal more of the upper teeth. A lip flip, achieved through neurotoxin injections, relaxes the muscles around the lip, causing it to flip outward for a fuller appearance. Each procedure offers unique benefits, and choosing the right one depends on individual goals and desired outcomes.

Here's a detailed comparison of the Lip Job, Lip Lift, and Lip Flip procedures, including their differences, benefits, and considerations for each;

1. Lip Job

What is Lip Job?

A lip job, commonly referred to as lip augmentation, is a cosmetic procedure aimed at enhancing the appearance of the lips. This can involve injections of dermal fillers, such as hyaluronic acid, to add volume, shape, and definition to the lips. Some lip jobs may also involve fat transfer or implants. The goal is to create fuller, more symmetrical lips, often enhancing the natural contours. Lip augmentation is a minimally invasive procedure with quick recovery times, and it is famous for producing noticeable yet natural-looking results.

Lip Job Procedure:

• Dermal Fillers: The lip filler uses the most common method. There are different type of filler that uses substances like hyaluronic acid (e.g., Juv-ede-rm, Re-sty-la-ne) to add volume.
• Implants: Permanent silicone implants can be inserted into the lips for a long-lasting solution.
• Fat Transfer: Fat is harvested from another body part, purified, and injected into the lips.

Lip Job Benefits:

• Immediate Results: Visible right after the procedure.
• Customizable: The amount of filler can be adjusted to achieve the desired volume.
• Minimal Downtime: Most patients can return to normal activities shortly after treatment.

Lip Job Considerations:

• Temporary Results (for Fillers): Hyaluronic acid fillers are absorbed by the body over time, requiring repeat treatments every 6-12 months.
• Risk of Asymmetry: Injections must be done by an experienced professional to avoid uneven lips.
• Swelling and Bruising: Common side effects typically subside within a few days.

2. Lip Lift

What is Lip Lift?

A lip lift is a cosmetic surgical procedure aimed at enhancing the appearance of the lips by shortening the distance between the nose and the upper lip. This procedure creates a more pronounced and youthful lip contour, increasing the visibility of the upper teeth and enhancing the overall balance of facial features. The surgery involves removing a small strip of skin beneath the nose and repositioning the lip. It can provide longer-lasting results than fillers, which typically need regular maintenance. Lip lifts are famous for their natural-looking results and the subtle yet significant improvement in lip aesthetics.

Lip Lift Procedure

• Surgical Technique: The most common method is the "bullhorn" or subnasal lip lift, where a small strip of skin under the nose is removed, and the lip is lifted and sutured in place.

Lip Lift Benefits

• Permanent Results: Unlike fillers, lip lift results are permanent.
• Enhanced Cupid’s Bow: This can create a more defined and aesthetically pleasing upper lip.
• Improved Smile: Lifting the upper lip can enhance the overall appearance of the mouth and smile.

Lip Lift Considerations:

• Surgical Risks: As with any surgery, there are risks such as infection, scarring, and anaesthesia complications.
• Recovery Time: Typically involves a week or more of downtime with swelling and bruising.
• Visible Scarring: Scars are usually hidden under the nose but may be noticeable.

3. Lip Flip

What is Lip Flip?

A lip flip is a non-surgical cosmetic procedure that enhances the appearance of the lips. It involves injecting a small amount of neurotoxin injections into the muscles around the upper lip. It relaxes the muscles, causing the upper lip to curl slightly upwards and outwards, creating the illusion of a fuller lip. The procedure is quick, typically 10-20 minutes, with minimal discomfort and downtime. Results usually appear within a few days and can last three to four months. A lip flip is a popular choice for those seeking a subtle enhancement without the need for fillers.

Lip Flip Procedure

• Neurotoxin Injections: Small amounts of neurotoxin injections are injected into the orbicularis muscle around the upper lip.

Lip Flip Benefits

• Non-surgical: A quick, in-office procedure with no need for surgery.
• Subtle Enhancement: Provides a natural-looking enhancement to the upper lip without adding volume.
• Quick Recovery: Minimal downtime, with most patients returning to normal activities immediately.

Lip Flip Considerations

• Temporary Results: Effects last about 2-3 months, requiring repeat treatments.
• Subtle Results: Not suitable for those looking for a significant increase in lip volume.
• Potential Side Effects: Possible temporary weakness in the upper lip muscle, affecting functions like sipping or whistling.

What Procedure Should I Choose?

Choosing the right procedure involves the following considerations:

Lip Job (Lip Augmentation)

• It is best for individuals seeking significant volume and plumpness in their lips.
• It is ideal for those who want a non-permanent solution and are comfortable with regular maintenance.

Lip Lift

• Suitable for individuals with a long distance between the nose and upper lip. For those who desire a more defined upper lip and permanent results.
• Suitable for those looking to improve the overall shape and positioning of the upper lip rather than just adding volume.

Lip Flip

• Perfect for those seeking a subtle enhancement to the upper lip's appearance without adding volume.
• It is ideal for individuals who prefer a non-surgical approach with minimal downtime and are okay with temporary results.

Lip procedures have to be performed by skilled highly-qualified plastic surgeons. An experienced surgeon would assess your lip, check the volume, symmetry, muscle activity and facial profile and suggest the best possible solution.

Dr. Sandhya Balasubramanyan is the best plastic surgeon in Hyderabad who would be the right choice for someone looking for facial aesthetics. She has international training in facial aesthetics and has performed all types of lip procedures.