Botox, Dermal Filler

Botox vs Fillers

Should I get Botox, or should I get fillers? Have you been struggling with this decision?

There are a few common misconceptions about Botox and fillers. One is that Botox and fillers are interchangeable. And that both are made of the same thing and have the same uses. Another misconception is that you don’t have to choose between getting a Botox treatment or a filler treatment.

Yet, the truth is that they are entirely different treatments. They can be used singularly, or to complement each other to achieve smoother and plumper skin. Let’s look at both sides of the story to get a better idea of what will work best to solve your skin concerns.

What’s the difference between Botox and dermal fillers? Aren’t they the same thing?

The short answer is “No”. The only similarity between Botox and fillers is that they are both administered via injections. What differentiates them are: firstly the content inside the syringe; Secondly, how it works, and; thirdly, what it is used to treat.

Botox vs fillers: The main ingredients

Botox is the brand name for a specific kind of botulinum neurotoxin. There are not multiple kinds of Botox.

Fillers are made from various temporary and permanent substances, the two most popular being Hyulauronic acid and calcium hydroxyapatite. A few common brand names of dermal fillers are Juvaderm, Restylane, Belotero, and Versa.

Botox vs fillers: how they work

Botox is a muscle relaxer that has been on the market for over two decades. It is primarily used for the light or deep wrinkles that occur naturally around your eyes, mouth, and in between your eyebrows. These wrinkles become more pronounced with age. Botox relaxes the muscles near these wrinkles, which reduces their appearance.

Fillers are like tiny implants that can be injected under your skin to fill out areas that have lost collagen or Hyaluronic acid. The ingredients in fillers revitalize and add volume to your skin which diminishes hollowed-out areas and the appearance of lines and wrinkles.

Botox vs fillers: The uses

In the battle between Botox and fillers, there really is no winner. It is simple when you boil it down. In short, the lines of expression need Botox, while lines at rest need filler.

Constant facial expression can cause unwanted deep wrinkles such as frown lines, crow’s feet, or laugh lines between muscles. Since Botox can be used to relax the muscles. Therefore, it is most effective at smoothing out the muscle areas that control these facial expressions.

Dermal fillers are exactly that..fillers! This is why they are so effective at treating scars and plumping up cheeks, lips, and deep lines. Fillers are available in a variety of thicknesses, which means that they each have their best uses and one may be better suited for a particular skin type or condition than the other.

When Botox and fillers join forces, the effects can be stunning. A combination of both Botox and fillers is common for achieve optimal results as they work differently to target different lines.

Botox vs fillers: Recovery

You can get back to your normal activities after your appointment, as Botox treatments require no recovery time. Most people see noticeable effects within a week of getting Botox injections. And the effects may last about 3 to 4 months. Maintaining the same results may require additional treatments.

As with Botox, no recovery time is needed for filler treatment. You can get back to your routine after receiving the filler injections. The results last anywhere from 5-24 months, depending on the filler. Fillers also require maintenance treatments if you want to keep the results.

What are the risks and side effects?

Again, there is no comparison here. Botox and dermal fillers come with their own set of risks and side effects.

Botox risks and side effects

According to the AAOS, to reduce the risk of side effects, you should be in good health if you get Botox treatments. Side effects can include:

bruises at the injection site
drooping eyelids
eye redness and irritation
headaches

Botox is not suitable for people who:

have weak facial muscles
are pregnant or nursing
with skin issues
have thick skin or deep scars
have a neuromuscular disease like multiple sclerosis

Fillers risks and side effects

Moderate side effects are more common. But, it is rare to experience severe side effects from using fillers and they usually go away within two weeks.

Possible side effects include:

bruising
allergic reaction
infection
numbness
itching
redness
scarring
sores

Botox for medical conditions

Botox has been approved by the FDA to treat certain medical conditions. For examples:

Hyperhidrosis (excess sweating) can be relieved by Botox injections in the armpits or sweaty palms.
The teeth gridding associate with TMJ can be prevented with Botox injections in the jaw muscle.
Botox has been FDA-approved for preventing and treating chronic migraines.

Where can I get Botox and/or dermal fillers?

Botox and fillers are deemed safe and effective in their respective applications. Consequently, choosing a provider who is trained and experienced in administering Botox and dermal fillers is crucial. Above all, we are talking about your face. In other words, you don’t want to do anything that would harm or disfigure it.

Visiting a board-certified plastic surgeon, a dermatologist, or other physician is your best bet. They will:

evaluate your skin
help you select the best treatment for your skin gets a clear understanding of your goals
work within your budget

How much do treatments cost?

The cost of Botox and dermal filler treatments vary depending on your geographic area and how your provider groups the treatment sessions. Therefore, it is best to obtain costs estimates for comparisons.

Botox treatments average $500 a session. The number of sessions you need depends on your individual goals. A professional and experienced physician would be the best person to gauge and advice the number of sessions to achieve the desired result.

The cost of dermal fillers depends on the types and quantity of filler used. You could expect the price to range from $644-$1930.

Botox and fillers treat different cosmetic and or medical conditions. Some Botox treatments may be covered by insurance if you are getting injections to treat approved medical conditions. On the other hand, insurance generally does not cover botox or filler treatments for cosmetic reasons. Your healthcare provider will help you distinguish your treatment for insurance purposes. Further, discuss financing or payment options with your healthcare provider.

Botox vs fillers: Who’s the winner?

It is up to you and your doctor. Botox and fillers have their risks and advantages. You might find that a little bit of both is just what you need to achieve your desired results. To sum it up, a professional healthcare provider’s expertise and advice are what you need to achieve the desired results for your specific conditions.

Let us help you decide! Schedule your consultation today!

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