The Russian lip technique, or Russian lip flip, is a specialised approach designed to create vertical height rather than forward projection. The focus is on lifting and defining specific anatomical points of the lip: enhancing the Cupid’s bow for a sharper, heart-shaped contour, accentuating the central tubercle of the upper lip to create structured fullness, and subtly everting the lip border so the pink lip rolls outward slightly. The lower vermilion is gently enhanced to support balance and proportion, without excessive projection.
By lifting the pink portion of the upper lip and refining the central shape, this method visually shortens the philtrum* and creates a sculpted, centralised focus. The result is a more defined lip silhouette with vertical emphasis rather than outward volume.
This technique is particularly suited to patients with thin lips, longer philtrums*, or delicate facial features, where excessive forward projection could appear disproportionate. Russian lips can also improve the appearance of symmetry in patients with subtle upper-lip unevenness by carefully structuring the Cupid’s bow and central fullness.
At Dr Hass Clinic, we approach Russian lips cautiously and with precision. Pre-existing filler can interfere with achieving the correct lift and border definition, so in some cases, we recommend dissolving previous filler to allow accurate placement. We prioritise conservative technique and gradual sculpting to ensure refined definition of the Cupid’s bow, tubercle, and lip border — always aiming for a natural, elegant outcome rather than an overdone effect.
*Philtrum: the vertical groove between the base of the nose and the top of the upper lip.
