When it comes to non-surgical facial rejuvenation, BOTOX® Cosmetic and dermal fillers are often the first two treatments that come to mind. These injectables temporarily smooth wrinkles and contour the face, allowing patients to refresh their look without undergoing invasive surgery. In this blog post, I’ll be comparing BOTOX to help you understand which option is right for you.
What Does BOTOX Treat?
BOTOX is primarily used to treat dynamic wrinkles, or expression lines, which are caused by repeated muscle movements. The FDA-approved treatment areas include:
- Forehead lines
- Frown lines (between the eyebrows)
- Crow’s feet (around the eyes)
However, BOTOX can be safely used “off-label” to treat other concerns, from fixing a gummy smile to slimming a square face and more. Plus, BOTOX isn’t just for the face! Learn more about the surprising uses of BOTOX in our related blog post.
What Do Dermal Fillers Treat?
Dermal fillers, on the other hand, are ideal for addressing static wrinkles, enhancing facial features, and adding volume to areas that have lost fullness over time. They are commonly used for:
- Nasolabial folds (smile lines)
- Marionette lines (lines from the corners of the mouth to the chin)
- Cheek definition
- Lip augmentation
- Under-eye hollows
Some other applications of fillers include non surgical nose job, chin augmentation, and jawline enhancement.
Dermal Fillers vs. BOTOX: How Do They Work?
BOTOX Cosmetic uses a neurotoxin to block the signals from the nerves to the muscles. This temporarily prevents the muscles from contracting, and, therefore, forming the lines caused by facial expressions. This relaxation of the muscles smooths out the overlying skin.
Cosmetic fillers like JUVEDERM, meanwhile, are gel-like substances that are injected beneath the skin to replace lost volume, smooth lines, and enhance facial contours. Fillers are commonly made of hyaluronic acid, a naturally occurring substance in the skin that helps maintain hydration and volume.
However, biostimulator fillers, such as RADIESSE® use other substances to add volume and stimulate collagen production. The result is a short-term improvement in smoothness and volume and long-term improvements in the skin’s firmness and resilience.
Results & Longevity
BOTOX Cosmetic results are typically seen within a few days, with the full effect appearing after about 1 to 2 weeks. The treated areas will look smoother and more youthful, with a noticeable reduction in the appearance of wrinkles. The results typically last 3 to 4 months, and most patients choose to get a “touch-up” at around this time to maintain their refreshed look.
Dermal fillers provide immediate results. After the treatment, you will notice an instant improvement in the volume and smoothness of the treated areas. In the case of RADIESSE® and other biostimulators, your results will continue to develop and improve over time.
Regarding longevity, how long dermal fillers last will depend on the specific filler and the area treated. For example, highly mobile areas, such as the lips, may not last as long as those in the cheeks. On average, fillers can last between 6 months and 2 years.
Are Injectables Safe?
Both BOTOX and dermal fillers are considered safe when administered by a reputable, trained, and experienced provider. However, like any procedure, there are some risks and side effects that you should know before committing to treatment.
For the most part, injectables have mild, temporary side effects that may include bruising or swelling at the injection site or asymmetry (such as a drooping eyelid or uneven lip volume). In rare cases, BOTOX and dermal fillers can cause allergic reactions or more serious complications, such as vascular occlusion, in which poor technique causes a blood vessel to become blocked.
Making the Right Choice
Choosing between BOTOX Cosmetic and dermal fillers depends on your specific concerns and desired outcomes. If your main goal is to smooth out dynamic wrinkles caused by facial expressions, BOTOX Cosmetic is likely the better option.
If you are looking to restore lost volume and address deeper lines or enhance facial features, dermal fillers may be more suitable. However, many patients find that they benefit most by combining the treatments in a liquid facelift.
Ultimately, the best way to determine the right treatment for you is to talk to an experienced provider. We offer patients the option of requesting a consultation online or calling us at (205) 933-9308 to schedule an appointment.
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