Dysport Lip Flip vs Lip Filler: How They Differ and Which One Fits Your Goals

A Dysport lip flip and lip filler both make the lips look fuller, but they change different things. A lip flip uses a small amount of a neuromodulator, such as Dysport or Botox, to relax the muscle around the mouth so the upper lip turns slightly outward and looks fuller. Lip filler uses hyaluronic acid (HA) to add actual volume and shape. A lip flip is subtle and short-term. Filler creates more visible change and lasts longer.

At ImageLab Med Spa, we offer both lip fillers and Botox and wrinkle relaxers in Chicago, Alexandria and Rockford. This guide compares the two treatments so you can decide which one fits your goals.

What Is a Lip Flip?

A lip flip is a quick in-office treatment where very small amounts of a neuromodulator are injected into the muscle that surrounds the mouth, along the upper lip. As that muscle relaxes, the upper lip rolls slightly outward. More of the pink part of the lip shows, which can make it look fuller without adding any volume.

A lip flip can be done with Dysport, Botox, Xeomin or Jeuveau, all of which we offer. Using a neuromodulator to flip the lip is an off-label use, so it should be performed by an experienced medical injector.

Dysport, Botox or Xeomin for a Lip Flip?

Dysport, Botox and Xeomin all relax the lip muscle in a similar way, so any of them can be used for a lip flip. The main practical difference is dosing. Each brand is measured in its own units, and Dysport units are not the same as Botox units, so unit counts cannot be compared directly between brands. Your injector will choose the product and dose based on your lips, your goals and your history with neuromodulators. Read our comparisons of Dysport vs Botox and Xeomin vs Botox for more detail.

What Is Lip Filler?

Lip filler is an injectable HA gel that adds volume, shape and definition to the lips. At ImageLab, we use two filler brands:

• Restylane Kysse: Uses XpresHAn Technology for natural movement
• Evolysse: Uses advanced cross-linking technology

HA is a substance found naturally in the body, and HA fillers can be dissolved if a result needs to be adjusted.

Lip Flip vs Lip Filler: Side-by-Side Comparison

• Product:
  
  • Lip flip: Neuromodulator, such as Dysport or Botox
    
  • Lip filler: Hyaluronic acid filler
    
• How it works:
  
  • Lip flip: Relaxes the muscle so the upper lip rolls outward
    
  • Lip filler: Adds volume and shape directly to the lips
    
• Adds volume:
  
  • Lip flip: No
    
  • Lip filler: Yes
    
• Best for:
  
  • Lip flip: A subtle lift of the upper lip
    
  • Lip filler: Fuller, more defined lips
    
• When results show:
  
  • Lip flip: Gradually over about 1 to 2 weeks
    
  • Lip filler: Right away, fully settled in 1 to 2 weeks
    
• How long it lasts:
  
  • Lip flip: About 2 to 3 months
    
  • Lip filler: About 6 to 12 months
    
• Can it be reversed:
  
  • Lip flip: No, it wears off on its own
    
  • Lip filler: HA filler can be dissolved

Who Is a Good Candidate for a Lip Flip?

A lip flip may suit you if:

• Your upper lip seems to disappear when you smile
• You want a subtle change and are not ready for filler
• You want a small upgrade with no added volume
• You show more gum than you would like when you smile, which may also be addressed with Botox for a gummy smile

Who Is a Good Candidate for Lip Filler?

Lip filler may suit you if:

• Your lips are naturally thin or have lost volume over time
• You want more definition along the lip border or cupid's bow
• Your upper and lower lips are uneven
• You want results that last several months

Can You Combine a Lip Flip and Lip Filler?

Yes. Some patients combine both. The filler adds volume and shape, while the lip flip helps the upper lip show more when you smile. Your injector will assess your lips at rest and in motion to decide whether one treatment is enough or whether a combination makes sense.

What Are the Side Effects?

Lip Flip

Because the lip flip relaxes a muscle you use to speak, eat and drink, some people notice temporary changes such as:

• Difficulty drinking through a straw
• Trouble whistling or pronouncing certain sounds
• Mild asymmetry
• Minor bruising or swelling

These effects fade as the neuromodulator wears off.

Lip Filler

Swelling and tenderness are common after lip filler and are usually most noticeable in the first few days. Bruising can also occur. Your lips may look larger right after treatment than they will once they settle.

How Much Does Each Treatment Cost?

A lip flip uses a small number of units, so it usually costs less than filler. At ImageLab, new-patient Botox starts at $9.99 per unit (regular price $14 per unit). Ask about pricing for Dysport and other brands. Your injector will confirm your unit count at your consultation.

Lip filler starts at $500 per syringe for new patients (regular price $650). Members of our Beauty Bank program ($49 per month) get member pricing on both treatments. Learn more about our membership.

Which One Should You Choose?

• A subtle, temporary change: Lip flip
  
• Noticeably fuller lips: Lip filler
  
• A more defined lip border: Lip filler
  
• More upper lip showing when you smile: Lip flip
  
• Volume plus a better smile line: Both

If you are also considering wrinkle relaxers for other areas, read our first time Botox FAQ or our guide for first time Botox.

Book a Lip Consultation at ImageLab Med Spa

Our licensed medical injectors assess your lip shape, proportions and goals before recommending a lip flip, filler or both. Every consultation is complimentary, and every treatment includes a 2-week follow-up.

Visit us at any of our locations:

• Chicago, IL: 2033 W Roscoe St | (872) 285-6769
• Alexandria, VA: 123 N Pitt St, Suite 150 | (703) 884-8314
• Rockford, IL: 1998 McFarland Road | (815) 205-1122

Book your complimentary consultation and find the right lip treatment for you.