Let’s Talk: Botox versus Fillers
please note: this is a general guide - we always recommend a consultation to determine the best treatment for your needs
Injectables are a perfect solution for women who want to appear refreshed and youthful without resorting to surgical solutions. But before you set your appointment, it’s important understand your options. We will always consult with you and help determine the best approach for your goals, but we believe that education is just as important as results. Our goal is to help you understand why we take the approach we decide on. So if you’re considering injectables, read on & start your journey.
Before we dig into the uses, let’s get this straight: “Botox” is the brand name of a specific botulinum neurotoxin. There are 4 FDA approved neurotoxins available in the USBotox, Dysport, Xeomin, and Jeauveau2. The second option for injectables would be ‘fillers’. Fillers include names like Restylane, Juvederm, Belotero, and Radiesse. In many cases, botox and fillers are used in combination, but it’s still important to understand each and where is does its best work.
Botox
Botox is best if you’re trying to fill expression lines: crow’s feet, ‘11’ between the eyes, frown lines. These “crease lines” are caused by muscle contractions and so the treatment prevents the muscle from deepening the forced lines on the face. If you keep your silk dress folded in a drawer, it’ll form deep creases. You have to release the tension along the creases by hanging it up so it can smooth itself again - the same goes for your skin.
non-cosmetic uses for Botox include:
injections in the armpits can help stave off hyperhidrosis (excess sweating)
injections in the jaw muscle can be used to prevent teeth grinding
Side effects
Normal reactions include: light bruising and pain at the injection site — the same as any injection
Abnormal reactions: eye dryness, trouble breathing, a crooked smile, drooling, or a drooping eyelid — these are not normal reactions to a Botox injection. seek medical assistance
Fillers
The general rule for when to use a filler over botox is this: Is the line visible when the face is at rest? If so, then easing the muscle may not be enough to soften the unwanted line or area. Filler is also used to plump areas of the face to create symmetry or give a more youthful appearance. In these cases, the solution would be to ‘fill’ the area to help to smooth, plump, and support the skin.
Types of filler
Fillers come in several varieties and range in permanence. The most common fillers are Hyaluronic acid fillers (Restylane, Juvederm, and Belotero) and calcium fillers (Radiesse). Hyaluronic acid fillers vary in thickness and will be selected based on the area and depth of the fill needed. The resulting fill can last from 5-24 months. Calcium-based filler lasts for 12-24 months and is usually reserved for deep creases or sunken areas of the face.
side effects
Typical side effects: bruising, tenderness, and mild swelling at the injection sites that may last up to 2 weeks
Atypical side effects: acne-like bumps, a blue cast to the skin
