With the increasing desire for beauty, many individuals are seeking new ways to enhance their appearance. Lip Botox is one of the beauty treatments that has gained popularity in recent years, making lips fuller and giving individuals a more youthful appearance. Among all the beauty methods used for lips, lip Botox is known for giving lips a beautiful and natural shape, enhancing one’s beauty.
But what is meant by lip Botox? Who is it suitable for? What are the advantages and disadvantages of lip Botox injections? If you are also looking for answers to your questions about lip Botox, we recommend you stay with us until the end of this article.
What is Lip Botox?
Botox injections are considered one of the suitable methods for eliminating superficial facial wrinkles. Today, doctors consider lip Botox a suitable alternative to lip lifts and fillers, providing a very beautiful and natural appearance to the lips.
Botox, derived from botulinum toxin, works by blocking the nerve signals sent to the muscles, causing muscle paralysis and thereby reducing facial wrinkles.
In lip Botox, the injection is made directly into the orbicularis oris muscle near the upper lip and at the corners of the lip line. This muscle surrounds the mouth and is responsible for lip movement.
During lip Botox, the neurotoxin affects the lip muscles, causing the corners of the lips to turn outward, making the lips appear bigger and fuller. Additionally, Botox injections reduce wrinkles around the lips and correct a gummy smile.
What are the Applications of Lip Botox?
One of the features on the face that attracts a lot of attention at first glance is the lips. Given that full lips have become increasingly popular in recent years, various methods have been developed to change the shape of the lips, one of which is lip Botox.
Below, we will examine the most important reasons for using lip Botox.
Changing the Shape of the Lips: Aging is one of the main reasons for changes in the shape of the lips. As we age, collagen production decreases, and the skin loses its original structure, causing the lips to appear flat and thin.
Reducing Vertical Lines and Wrinkles Around the Lips: Over time, the skin loses its elasticity, leading to lines around the lips. Factors such as sun exposure, an unhealthy lifestyle (e.g., smoking), a lack of vitamins, stress, etc., can also change the shape of the lips.
Correcting a Gummy Smile: Some people show their gums when they smile, known as a gummy smile. From an aesthetic and health perspective, it’s better to correct a gummy smile, and lip Botox can be used for this purpose.
Boosting Self-Confidence: Many people may be dissatisfied with the shape of their lips, leading to reduced self-confidence. Using lip Botox to change the shape of the lips can help these individuals regain their lost confidence.
What Are the Side Effects of Lip Botox Injections?
Studies have shown that as long as Botox injections are performed by a specialist doctor and a suitable brand is used, they will not have many side effects.
Many of the side effects of Botox are due to the needle entering the skin. Some side effects are also due to the injected substance. Below, we will examine the most important side effects observed after lip Botox injections.
Bruising and Inflammation at the Injection Site:
Inflammation at the injection site is a natural reaction that occurs in most invasive and non-invasive procedures involving needles. When the body tries to heal the injection site and rebuild the area, inflammation occurs.
Another common side effect after lip Botox injections is bruising around the injection site. As you know, there are many blood vessels around the lips, which can be damaged or broken during the injection, causing bruising that usually disappears on its own after a few days.
To reduce lip inflammation and bruising, it’s best to use an ice pack after Botox injections.
Numbness at the Injection Site:
One of the common symptoms after lip Botox injections is numbness at the injection site and surrounding areas. This is due to the neurotoxin affecting the lips, preventing nerve signals from reaching them. Additionally, numbness might be due to the use of local anesthesia to reduce the pain from Botox and cosmetic fillers. This numbness usually disappears after a few days and is not a cause for concern.
Headache:
Although Botox is used medically to treat migraines, injecting Botox into the face can sometimes cause headaches. This is usually due to injecting too much of the substance, causing excessive muscle contraction, leading to headaches. These headaches generally subside within 48 hours, but over-the-counter painkillers can be used to reduce them.
Nausea:
Flu-like symptoms such as nausea, coughing, sore throat, and a runny nose might occur in some individuals. These symptoms usually improve on their own a few days after the injection and are not a cause for concern.
When Can You See the Results of Lip Botox?
The initial results of lip Botox injections are usually visible within 24 to 48 hours after the injection. However, it typically takes two weeks to see the final results. Note that these results are not permanent and usually wear off after a few months, requiring repeated injections.
How Long Does Lip Botox Last?
Over time, the effects of the injected Botox wear off as the body creates new pathways for nerve signals. Therefore, lip Botox is temporary, and repeat injections are necessary. To extend the duration of Botox, it’s important to stay hydrated and use an effective lip balm to maintain the natural shape of the lips for a longer period.
A proper diet and good nutrition can significantly increase the longevity of lip Botox. Additionally, taking zinc supplements can help extend the duration of Botox. It’s also recommended to use sunscreen and avoid direct sun exposure for better Botox longevity.
When Can You Eat and Drink After Botox Injections?
Eating and drinking are generally permitted after lip Botox injections. However, it is important to avoid putting pressure on the lips for at least three days. Also, refrain from smoking and drinking through a straw for at least three days, as puckering the lips can cause the injected Botox to spread to other areas. Avoid alcohol for at least 24 hours, as it can thin the blood and increase the likelihood of bruising at the injection site.
Does Lip Botox Hurt?
Lidocaine is usually used during lip Botox injections to reduce pain. Some doctors also use topical numbing creams to minimize discomfort for their patients. While patients may feel the needle entering the lip, the pain from Botox injections is generally not significant and typically subsides within 24 hours.
When Should You See Your Doctor After Lip Botox Injections?
While side effects from lip Botox usually disappear within a few days, you should consult your doctor if you experience the following symptoms to ensure a quicker recovery or if side effects persist:
- Allergic reactions, such as breathing difficulties
- Severe numbness in the facial muscles
- Trouble speaking or swallowing
- Inability to control the bladder
- Blurred or double vision
- Drooping eyelids
Does Lip Botox Correct a Gummy Smile?
One of the main reasons for lip Botox is to correct a gummy smile. As mentioned, a gummy smile is seen in individuals whose gums are visible when they smile. By injecting lip Botox and relaxing the upper lip, the gums become less visible when smiling. Therefore, this method can ultimately increase an individual’s self-confidence.
What is the Difference Between Lip Botox and Lip Fillers?
Although both lip Botox and lip fillers are used to change the structure of the lips, they are different methods. Lip fillers are used to increase lip volume, while lip Botox changes the position of the upper lip by paralyzing the lip muscles, giving the lips a naturally altered shape.
How Much Does Lip Botox Cost?
The cost of lip Botox varies depending on the brand of Botox used, the skill of the doctor, the location of the clinic, and other factors. Unfortunately, there is no fixed rate for lip Botox injections. However, the typical cost of lip Botox in 2024 is estimated to be between 1 to 3 million tomans. Generally, the cost of lip Botox is higher in larger cities than in smaller ones. Therefore, it is recommended to contact Aesthetic clinics in your area to get an accurate cost estimate for lip Botox injections.