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Facial filler vs Botox: What’s the Difference?

There are a number of options for treating the wrinkles that come with age. Neurotoxins, such as Botox, and dermal fillers are both considered long-lasting treatments for wrinkles. Both are delivered by injection.

Neurotoxins including Botox

Neurotoxins such as Botox Cosmetic®, Dysport®, and Xeomin® are Botulinum toxin type-A injectable neurotoxins. Botox-type neurotoxins were originally approved for treating eyelid spasms, and eventually for the treatment of migraines and other medical conditions as well.

Today, Botox-type injectables are also used to smooth dynamic wrinkles, such as those caused by frowning, squinting, smiling, and other expressions. The treatments cause muscles to relax by blocking nerve impulses to the muscles. This results in a softening of expressions, greatly reducing dynamic wrinkles.

These products all contain the same active ingredient but differ in their formulation, which affects how the product spreads and how quickly the patient might see results. The healthcare provider works with the patient to determine which product will best meet their treatment goals.

Patients will typically see noticeable effects within a week of treatment, which should last three to four months. Side effects are minimal but may include bruising, drooping eyelids (which can take weeks to resolve), and headache.

Dermal Fillers

While Botox-like injectables relax muscles to keep them from creating wrinkles, dermal fillers are used to restore lost volume, smooth lines, soften creases, or enhance contours. These gel-like substances can be a cost-effective alternative to surgery (and related recovery time) for those who want to look younger.

Specifically, dermal fillers can be used to smooth out lines around the nose and mouth, enhance and restore volume to cheeks or temples, diminish lip lines, plump and enhance lips, or improve the symmetry of facial features.

After a dermal filler treatment, results should be noticeable immediately, and typically last anywhere from six months to several years, depending on which filler is chosen.

Fillers can be made from hyaluronic acid, a naturally occurring substance found in the skin, or from biocompatible synthetic substances. Pure Medical Spa carries products from Radiesse, Juvederm, Restylane, and Sculptra Aesthetic. Each product features a unique formula. The choice of which filler to use will depend on which part of the face is being treated and the patient’s treatment goals.

Trust the Experienced Professionals at Pure Medical Spa

Injections of Botox-like products and dermal fillers are medical procedures that require specific training and skill. The highly trained professionals at Pure Medical Spa are skilled at providing treatments to help you look your best and love the way you look. Contact us to schedule an appointment.

Sources: ABCS Fillers, ABCS Botox and Healthline