In the world of facial makeovers, the once sole option of plastic surgery— often pricey, intrusive, and burdened with extended downtimes—still holds relevance today. However, the landscape has evolved, with numerous less invasive procedures now available.
Among them is the ‘lip flip,’ a swift procedure with virtually no downtime. Yet, as with any treatment, it’s not completely devoid of potential side effects. One such effect that may occur is a sensation of numbness in your lips following the procedure.
This guide, therefore, delves into actionable steps to take should you experience numb lips after a lip flip.
Understanding the Lip Flip Procedure
The ‘lip flip’ is a popular alternative to traditional plastic surgery for individuals seeking fuller lips. The procedure involves injecting Botox into the lip, which enhances them without the added volume characteristic of lip fillers and other plastic surgery procedures.
Botox relaxes the lip muscles, causing the upper lip to ‘flip’ outwards, creating a fuller appearance. However, you may notice a certain degree of numbness post-procedure, with the intensity varying from patient to patient.
What to Expect Post-Procedure
Feeling a slight difference in the sensation of your lips after the ‘lip flip’ procedure is quite normal. The procedure typically involves injecting around six units of Botox into the lips. Despite this relatively small amount, numbness is expected to set in a few days following the procedure.
This altered sensation may last up to around the 7th day for most patients, but it may linger longer for others. A duration of up to three weeks can be considered within the normal range. During this time, you could encounter some challenges in performing tasks involving using your lips.
For instance, sipping drinks using a straw, eating, playing a wind instrument, or even pronouncing certain words might be slightly difficult. Simultaneously, the effects of the procedure become more visible, leading to the desired plumper appearance.
When to Seek Professional Help
While numbness post-procedure is typical, lasting up to a week for most and possibly extending to three weeks for others, anything beyond this period should raise concerns.
“If you still experience numbness after three weeks, it’s crucial to consult a professional. Additionally, sensations beyond numbness, such as sharp pain, excessive swelling, or discoloration, are not a standard part of the recovery process and may indicate a complication warranting immediate medical attention,” says Dr. Adam Weinfeld of Austin Plastic Surgeon.
Causes of Extended Numbness
Extended numbness following a lip flip procedure often signals improper Botox dosage. Infections might also be the cause of extended recovery periods. So, choosing a qualified professional remains paramount.
Specialists such as board-certified dermatologists or plastic surgeons possess the requisite expertise and experience. They understand the right dosage of Botox to use, minimizing the chances of complications.
In most cases, complications resulting from improper dosages resolve in a few weeks. However, medical intervention will be necessary if the complications result from infections.
The Downside of Lip Flips
While the ‘lip flip’ is notably non-invasive, it doesn’t offer the longevity of other lip augmentation procedures like plastic surgery. Patients often must redo the procedure every three to four months to maintain their desired appearance.
Recently, a new neurotoxin called DAXXIFY has emerged and is acclaimed for its long-lasting results. However, it’s essential to exercise caution as there’s currently insufficient data to validate its effectiveness and long-term safety.
As with any aesthetic procedure, thorough research and consultation with a qualified professional are pivotal in making an informed decision.