How to get my smile back after Botox lip flip? (photos)

Question

I had previously had lip fillers and decided to try Botix lip flip to extend them and to avoid overfilling my lips. I feel like this was the worst mistake as they have changed my smile for the worse. I have done them twice 6 months apart and my smile has turned Jokeresque, with a lot of black space between the corners of my lips and teeth. I used to really like my smile and now hate it. I have waited for the effects to revert but it's been six months like this.

Anna Chacon, MD, FAAD · Answer

I'm sorry to hear about your experience with the Botox lip flip and the impact it has had on your smile. Here are some insights and potential steps you might consider:

Understanding Botox Effects:
Botox works by temporarily relaxing the muscles, and the effects typically last 3 to 4 months. If you are still experiencing issues after six months, it might be due to repeated treatments or individual variations in muscle response.

Consultation with a Specialist:
It's important to consult with a board-certified dermatologist or plastic surgeon who has experience with cosmetic injectables. They can assess your current condition and provide guidance on potential corrective measures.

Possible Corrective Options:
Botox Adjustment: A specialist might recommend strategic Botox injections to balance muscle activity and improve symmetry.
Lip Fillers: Carefully placed fillers could help restore volume and shape, enhancing your natural smile.
Time: If the effects are due to Botox, they should gradually diminish. However, since it has been six months, professional evaluation is crucial to determine the cause and appropriate intervention.

Alternative Treatments:
Consider discussing alternative treatments or techniques that can achieve your desired aesthetic without compromising your smile.

Emotional and Psychological Support:
Experiencing changes in your appearance can be distressing. It might be helpful to seek support from friends, family, or a counselor while you navigate this situation.

Future Considerations:
When considering future cosmetic procedures, ensure thorough discussions with your provider about the desired outcomes and potential risks to make informed decisions.

Your concerns are valid, and with the right professional support, there are ways to address and potentially improve your situation.

Gary M. Horndeski, MD · Answer

In your pre-op photograph, you were an excellent candidate for a lip lift.  Fillers will make the lip project anteriorly but not lift the lip.  A lip lift does 4 things: shortens the distance between your nose and upper lip, increase the mucosa of the upper lip, increase the incisor show and pulls up the corners.  You may be a great candidate for the procedure.  The procedure takes 1 hour to perform under local anesthesia and costs $4,000.

Best Wishes,

Gary Horndeski, M.D.

John L. Burns Jr., MD · Answer

by definition botox's effects wear off at 4 months.  After 6 months the effects of Botox will be gone and your smile should not be changed.  If you feel like it still is then perhaps it's residual effects of filler.

Zoran Potparic, MD · Answer

It would be in your best interest to wait until Botox effect is gone (6-12 months). Clinical evaluation regarding lip lift is best done in person although a set of close up photos showing entire face may help. Good luck.

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How to get my smile back after Botox lip flip? (photos)

Answers (4)

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