Dr. Mariana Vergara, NP-C, CEO of Beauty Villa Vergara in Beverly Hills, has seen a growing interest in subtle, non-invasive treatments like lip flips and fillers as social media continues to normalize aesthetic enhancements. As the "lip flip vs. filler" debate continues to gain traction, customers are curious about which option delivers the best results based on their personal goals. 

Vergara weighed in on the difference between lip filler and lip flips, and how she helps patients determine which treatment is right for them. 

What's the difference between lip filler and a lip flip? 

Vergara: “Lip fillers are injectable hyaluronic acid gels that add volume, shape, and hydration. 

“A lip flip is an injection of a small amount of neuromodulator or botox into the muscle around the mouth, helping the upper lip relax and then flip outwards. Lip flips give the illusion that the upper lip is bigger without adding any volume.”

Who should choose one over the other?

Vergara: "For someone wanting more volume on their lips, dermal fillers are best. If you just want a subtle enhancement without the volume, a lip flip is ideal. Sometimes in my practice, I even do both treatments at the same time. Lip flips have other benefits, like helping with the appearance of perioral rhytids (fine lines around the lips often caused by smoking or sun exposure).”

When is a lip flip more appropriate? 

Vergara: “I often recommend a lip flip for younger patients that are not ready to do dermal fillers yet. I also recommend it for patients that already have volume in their lips but want more projection. Older patients are often great candidates as well to treat perioral rhytids or ‘smoker lines’.”

Are certain patients requesting one more than the other?

Vergara: “Right now, there is a boom on social media about lip flips, so a lot of young patients visiting my practice ask for it. Usually, older adults want to improve perioral lines and that is when I discuss the option of a lip flip. Patients in the entertainment industry often do both.”

How long do treatments last?

Vergara: “A lip flip is more temporary and will only last 3 to 4 months. Dermal fillers can last from 12 -14 months, depending on the amount used.”

Are there risks patients should know about? 

Vergara: “Risks for lip flips are minimal, and usually will include mild redness and bruising. Dermal fillers are a little more invasive, so more bruising, redness, and swelling can be present. Like with any dermal fillers, the risk of vascular occlusion can also be present. Patients should always go to an experienced provider. Also, the amount of dermal filler should be right for the patient, so it doesn’t look overdone. If too much filler is used, migration can also occur.”

About Dr. Mariana Vergara NP-C: Dr. Mariana Vergara is a globally recognized cosmetic dermatologist and aesthetic medicine expert known for delivering natural and effective results. A Colombia-trained medical doctor with advanced surgical training, she refined her expertise at Florida International University and Harvard Medical School before founding her Beverly Hills medspa, Beauty Villa Vergara. She’s worked with top plastic surgeons and dermatologists, treated high-profile clients, and is regularly recognized for her work in minimally invasive rejuvenation, laser technology, exosomes, and facial aesthetics.