Most patients seek injectable treatments because they want to look and feel younger without the downtime and risks of surgery.
Botox and dermal fillers both provide facial rejuvenation through injections, but they have different correction capabilities.
Here are seven commonly asked questions about Botox and fillers.
1. What Is Botox?
Botox is the brand name for botulinum toxin A. It’s considered a neuromodulator because it blocks nerve signals and muscle contractions to prevent wrinkle-causing facial movements.
Botox is FDA-approved to smooth and relax wrinkles on the forehead, crow’s feet, and in between the eyebrows.
2. Who’s a Good Candidate for Botox?
Any adult with fine lines or wrinkles can be treated with Botox. However, most patients are in their 30s-60s.
Some plastic surgeons encourage younger patients in their 20s to have preventative Botox, while others claim that it’s not beneficial to treat wrinkles that have yet to form.
3. What Are Dermal Fillers?
Dermal fillers restore facial volume to correct fat loss that occurs with age.
Many temporary fillers (like Restylane and Juvederm) are made of hyaluronic acid and can be used to treat the nasolabial folds, lips, cheeks, under eyes, and temples.
4. What’s the Difference Between Botox and Dermal Fillers?
Botox treats wrinkles caused by muscle contraction, while fillers restore volume and improve facial fullness.
Additionally, Botox targets the upper face (Forehead, crow’s feet, and in between eyebrows), while fillers are most often used on the lower face (nasolabial folds, cheeks, and lips).
Because many patients have wrinkles and volume loss, Botox and dermal fillers are often used in combination for complete facial rejuvenation.
5. Are There Any Side Effects?
Any cosmetic treatment carries some minimal risk. However, Botox and dermal fillers have undergone rigorous testing to obtain FDA-approval.
Most common side effects include temporary redness, bruising, and swelling at the injection site.
6. Are Patients Satisfied With Results From Botox and Fillers?
Most patients are extremely pleased with the results of Botox and dermal fillers.
They report looking younger and more refreshed, with Botox results lasting four-to-six months and filler results lasting nine-to-12 months.
7. Are There Any New Injectable Treatments?
Kybella is a fairly new injectable used to treat and eliminate a double chin. Many patients and providers find that it’s a good non-surgical alternative to liposuction.
Kybella is performed as a series of injections, and patients may experience swelling for up to a week after treatment.
To learn more about Botox, dermal fillers, and Kybella, please contact DC Derm Docs today to schedule an appointment.
