Lip Flip Before and After: Real Photos & Honest Results for Thin Lips

by: Linda Robison / Facial Fitness Specialist

Wondering what a lip flip actually looks like—especially on thin lips?

This guide shows my real results: before-and-after photos, what changed, what didn’t, and exactly how it feels.

👉 I used 4 units of Botox for my results. If you’re curious how many units you might need, see my simple dosage guide.

If your upper lip is thin or you just want subtle shape without breaking the bank, this tweak might be your new favorite thing.

Thin lips considering a Botox lip flip—see 4-unit results inside

Lip Flip Before and After: Real Results on Thin Lips

Note:  I had a flip down on top and bottom lip this time.

Before lip flip photo with thin lips during Botox injection — no filler usedBefore: My lips as I’m getting Botox injection for a lip flip.
10 days after 4-unit Botox lip flip on thin lips — subtle upper lip curlAfter: 10 days later, you can see the subtle curl and added shape.

At first, I wasn’t sure anything had happened. On the morning after my lip flip, I thought: “Hmm… maybe nothing changed.”

But by day 5, I noticed a gentle curl at the edges—the kind of detail you see in selfies but others can’t quite pinpoint.

That little shift is why I’m sharing my experience: so you know exactly what’s realistic if you start with naturally thin lips.

What is a lip flip—and how does it work?

A lip flip is a quick, non-surgical Botox treatment that:

  • Relaxes the muscles just above the lip line
  • Lets the top lip gently roll outward
  • Creates a more visible upper lip without adding volume

Perfect if you have:

  • Naturally thin lips
  • Lips that disappear when you smile
  • A Cupid’s bow that lacks definition
  • Shape goals—not puffiness

Why I tried a lip flip after trying filler

Filler gave me volume, but not the lift I wanted. It didn’t help when I smiled. 

A lip flip, on the other hand:

  • Took under 5 minutes
  • Needed only 4 units of Botox (~$60)
  • Had no downtime—just two tiny red dots
  • Added shape without bulk

If you’re curious, I also documented my lip filler benefits with photos—so you can see lip flip + filler compared side by side.

Pro tip: If you already have filler, consider waiting at least 2 weeks before doing a lip flip. 

Lip flip healing timeline: What to expect each day

Day 1–14: The full results This is when the magic shows.

  • Day 0: Injection day. Quick and easy — I was in and out in 10 minutes.
  • Day 1–3: Minimal redness; no swelling for me, just two tiny bumps.
  • Day 4–7: The curl began. Subtle but noticeable. This is when lip liner application felt totally different — like it had a tiny “shelf” to sit on.
  • Day 8–14: Full effect. Lifted look, especially while smiling.
Immediately after lip flip—slight swelling, no filler used

⭐ Results last 2–3 months. I do touch-ups every 10–12 weeks.

Lip flip results on thin lips: What’s realistic?

If your lips are naturally thin, here’s what you can expect:

  • Shape, not size: A lip flip doesn’t add volume. It simply uncovers more of your natural upper lip.
  • Nude lipstick and gloss sit better on the upper lip.
  • Smile boost: If your top lip disappears when you smile, this is where the flip shines.
  • Subtle change: Friends may not even notice. But side-by-side photos show a real difference in definition.
  • Budget-friendly: Much cheaper than filler, and a good way to “test drive” a new look.

Best combo: If you do want actual fullness, a flip + filler together gives shape and volume (see my lip filler benefits page).

Pro Tip: Pair your flip with a hydrating gloss or liner trick (like I show below in my “1-Minute Lip Flip Look”) to maximize definition.

💋 1-Minute Lip Flip Look (My Between-Touch-Up Secret)

When I want that lifted, defined lip without a needle, I use my lip flip & gloss combo:

City Beauty Clear Lip Gloss

  • Hyaluronic acid for hydration & smoothing
  • Gentle plumping for a fuller look
  • Light-catching shine

How I Apply It:

  1. Swipe lightly over the Cupid’s bow and center of lips
  2. Press lips together
  3. Done—under a minute for an instant “flip” effect
10 days after a 4-unit lip flip—subtle upper-lip curl and natural shapeAfter the flip, I noticed my lipstick—especially nude shades—looked smoother and more defined. I also started pairing my results with a lightweight gloss that enhances the lift and shine even more. This has become my go-to lip glow “recipe”: a subtle flip for shape + a hydrating gloss for softness and sheen. You can see the gloss I use here.

Tips for thin lips

If you’re starting with naturally thin or aging lips, here’s what helped me get the best results:

  • Start small: 4 units was enough for me
  • Don’t expect volume: This enhances shape, not fullness
  • Skip straws + puckering for 48 hours
  • Be gentle: No rubbing or massaging the area
  • Optional: Use ice packs if tender (I didn’t need any)
  • Avoid hot yoga or saunas: For 24 hours (heat can reduce Botox effectiveness). 
  •  Apply SPF lip balm daily: Sun exposure can break down collagen faster.

Check out my 5 secrets for best results for Botox lip flip!

Lip Flip vs. Filler vs. Gloss: Quick Comparison

Here’s the chart that puts it all in perspective:

Treatment Best For Cost Range Longevity Results Downtime Pain Level
Lip Flip Shape, smile show, subtle curl $60–$100 8–12 weeks Natural lift, no volume None Mild pinch
Filler Volume, fullness, longer-lasting $400–$800+ / syringe 6–12 months Adds size + definition Some swelling/bruising Moderate
Gloss "Quick Fix" Temporary plump + shine $20–$40 Hours Hydrated look, light plumping None None

FAQs: Lip Flip (real answers from someone who’s had it done)

Question: Does a lip flip hurt?

Answer: It feels like a tiny pinch. Totally manageable.

Question: Can I still kiss, eat, or talk normally?

Answer: Yes, but it may feel a little awkward at first—especially if both the top and bottom lips are treated. Some people notice slight changes when eating or sipping but talking and kissing are usually fine. 

Question: Can it be reversed? 

Answer: No. You have to wait for Botox to wear off

Question: How soon before an event should I get a lip flip? 

Answer: At least 10 days before so results peak in time.

Question: Will it look fake?

Answer: Not if you start with a low dose. I only used 4 units. The result was natural, subtle, and just added a little shape—not volume.

Question: Does 4 units work for everyone?

Answer: Some need 6–8 units depending on muscle strength.

Question: How does it feel compared to filler? 

Answer: Less pain, less money, and quicker healing.

Question: Can I still drink from a straw or kiss after a lip flip?

Answer: Avoid puckering and straws for 48 hours.

Question: How long does a lip flip last on thin lips?

Answer: Typically 8–12 weeks. Some people notice a softer fade around week 6–8 and prefer touch-ups every 10–12 weeks.

Question: How soon will I see results (day-by-day)?

Answer: You may see subtle changes by days 3–5, with the full effect around days 7–14. Photos taken at the same angles help you spot the curl.

Question: How many units do you need for a lip flip with thin lips?

Answer: Most injectors use a low dose (about 4–8 units total). Stronger orbicularis muscles may need slightly more; start low and adjust.

Question: Is a lip flip worth it if my lips are very thin?

Answer: Yes—if your goal is shape and show of the upper lip, not volume. It won’t add fullness like filler; it uncovers what you already have.

Question: Lip flip vs. filler: which is better for thin lips?

Answer: A lip flip enhances shape and smile show; filler adds volume. Many combine both—flip for lift, filler for fullness—based on budget and goals.

Question: How much does a lip flip cost compared to filler?

Answer: A lip flip usually costs much less—often under $100, while filler can be several hundred dollars per syringe.

Question: Will a lip flip help if my top lip disappears when I smile?

Answer: Yes. A lip flip relaxes the muscle above the lip so the upper lip shows more when you smile, without adding bulk.

Question: Can you do a bottom-lip flip or both lips at once?

Answer: Yes, but most people only flip the top lip. Doing both can feel unusual at first and should be discussed with your injector.

Question: What are the side effects of a lip flip?

Answer: Common side effects are mild swelling, tiny bumps, or tenderness. Rarely, lips may feel weak or uneven until the Botox wears off.

Question: Can a lip flip look fake on thin lips?

Answer: Not if you start with a conservative dose. The effect should be subtle, natural, and most visible when smiling.

Takeaway: Is a lip flip worth it?

Final takeaway: Is a lip flip worth it?

💋 Yes, yes, yes.

If you want subtle shape, definition, and a little confidence boost without going full-filler, a lip flip is a smart, affordable option.

Pair it with gloss, hydrate well, and give it 10 days—you’ll likely love what you see.

Want more? Check out:

Have questions or want to share your results? Drop me a note—I’d love to hear how your flip turned out! 💋

Want more tips like these? Join the Anti-Aging Beauty Zone Club—it’s free, fun, and full of glow-up ideas you'll actually use.

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About the Author:
Linda Robison is a Facial Fitness Specialist and the founder of Anti-Aging Beauty Zone. She shares expert insights on skincare, facial rejuvenation, and beauty treatments—blending traditional wisdom, personal experience, and science-backed research for both at-home and in-office solutions.

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