Botox for Lip Flip and Gummy Smile: Same Thing or Different?

Botox, the wrinkle relaxer champion, the banisher of excessive sweating, teeth grinding, and even headaches, but did you know its practical uses for around the mouth? At Sisu Clinic, we know a thing or two about freshening the face, but as expert medical professionals in the field of aesthetic medicine, we also use Botox in ways that many "point and jab" clinics can't. The complex anatomy around the mouth is well-suited to Botox use when in skilled hands. By now, you've probably heard of the infamous lip flip. Increasingly, we are seeing patients a little confused about Botox for lip flips and Botox for gummy smiles. Let's break it down and give you insight into what's what.

What is a Lip Flip?

A lip flip is the use of Botox to "evert" the upper lip line and stop it from curling in; many people find their lip profile reduces when they give a big cheesy smile. The treatment is surging in popularity, with many people looking for a lip pout but may not be ready to take the dermal filler plunge. The treatment is quite specific to the patient's anatomy, and not everyone is suitable for it. For example, some patients with minimal lip volume are better suited to lip filler or indeed a combination of the lip flip and lip filler. Those who don't have the curling lip line will get less of an effect than those where the lip line curls inwards with a big smile.

What is Botox for Gummy Smile?

Botox is used extremely effectively in patients that have a strong Levator Labii Superioris Alaeque muscle (a mouthful, we know!). This muscle can be quite strong in some people and is responsible for pulling the upper lip into an upwards position and flaring the nostrils. Interestingly, this complicated little muscle is often called the "Elvis muscle" due to the fact that when it's strongly activated, it can give the face a "snarl"-like appearance. Botox at this site is highly effective in balancing the "lip, gum, tooth ratio," resulting in less of the gum line being visible.

‍What's the Difference Between a Lip Flip and Gummy Smile Botox?

The difference lies in the specifics of the patient's anatomy. A lip flip targets the orbicularis oris muscle. This muscle is found around the lip line and when suppressed stops the upper lip from curling inwards; think about a roller door on a garage. Botox for gummy smile is more focused on the above-mentioned Levator Labii Superioris Alaeque muscle; this muscle moves like a theater curtain and lifts the lip upwards. Not all muscles in the face do the same thing, but they do work in harmony with each other, so having an expert consult is key to see which muscle we will target to give you your desired result and effect.

How Do You Decide if I Should Have Gummy Smile Botox or a Lip Flip?

Having a consultation at Sisu Clinic is as unique as you are. No two faces are the same, and that goes for muscles in terms of how they flex and move. A detailed consultation will allow our aesthetic team to build the perfect treatment profile, from lip filler to lip flip, to gummy smile.

‍

Don't forget to follow us on social media for the latest updates and tips on beauty trends, treatments, and more. Embrace the aesthetic revolution today, and discover the power of personalized beauty at Sisu Clinic.

• NYC Flatiron District:

Elevate your look with Swan Neck Botox at our NYC Flatiron District clinic. Schedule your consultation at our NYC Flatiron District location.

• NYC Soho District:

Experience the transformation with Swan Neck Botox at our NYC Soho District clinic. Book your consultation at our NYC Soho District location.

• Coral Gables, Florida:

Embrace a new you with Swan Neck Botox at our Coral Gables, Florida clinic. Book your consultation at our Coral Gables, Florida location.

• Fort Lauderdale, Florida:

Achieve a softer, refined look with Swan Neck Botox at our Fort Lauderdale, Florida clinic. Visit our Fort Lauderdale, Florida location.

• Miami, Florida:

Step into a world of elegance with Swan Neck Botox at our Miami, Florida clinic. Make your appointment at our Miami, Florida location.

• Houston, Texas:

Enhance your beauty with Swan Neck Botox at our Houston, Texas clinic. Schedule your consultation at our Houston, Texas location.