What Is The Difference Between Botox And Dermal Fillers?

Both Botox and dermal fillers are common solutions if you are unhappy with your current appearance and want to improve the aesthetic appeal of your face. Since they are both injectable treatments that can reduce wrinkles, these two treatments are frequently confused for each other. However, they are actually very different medical procedures. If you are trying to decide which option is right for you, it is helpful to know a little bit more about them. Here's what you need to understand about the differences between Botox and dermal fillers.

What Are They Made From?

The first difference between these two products is their actual ingredients. Botox is made from the toxin produced by the botulinum bacteria. In addition to this primary ingredient, it may also contain some chemicals designed to preserve and stabilize the botulinum toxin. Facial fillers are made from a variety of products, ranging from collagen to hyaluronic acid gel. The exact ingredients will depend on which filler you select, and there are plenty of options including Juvederm, Sculptra, and Restylane. Generally, they are made from a substance that provides volume and hydration without irritating the skin or easily being absorbed into the skin.

How Do They Work?

The method through which Botox and fillers alter the appearance of the face is also very different from each other. Botox uses a specific type of toxin that induces paralysis. In small doses applied directly to an area of skin, the Botox relaxes tight muscles and reduces movement in the area. Fillers work through an alternate method. They provide volume to an area, so they push up and fill out the skin.

Are Results Different for Botox and Fillers?

In general, both Botox and fillers can be a great way of eliminating wrinkles. However, each one produces specialized results that work best for a specific type of issue. Botox is ideal for dynamic wrinkles. These are the wrinkles created by moving, such as the wrinkles between your eyebrows. In addition to relaxing the area and smoothing it out a little, Botox may also prevent future wrinkles by keeping the skin in that area from tensing up anymore.

Fillers provide results for more static wrinkles, like the ones that appear from drooping cheek skin. They plump up sunken regions and make the area look smoother. Fillers have a wider application than Botox because they can be used anywhere you want to provide more volume. This can help with things like sunken under eye areas. Some talented plastic surgeons are even capable of using fillers to contour the nose, cheeks, and chin.

What Is the Process Like for Botox or Fillers?

The start of getting Botox or fillers is typically the same. After a few consultations with your doctor, you will get a topical anesthesia that numbs the specific area you are getting the injectable. Once the region is numb, your doctor will carefully inject the necessary amount of Botox or filler to get the desired results. You then get to go home the same day.

Though the injection process is the same, the recovery process will vary a little depending on which option you choose. With fillers, you will see results almost immediately. However, there may be some swelling or bruising that might take up to 10 days to go away, so you will not see the complete effect until then. Botox takes a little longer. Results are not apparent immediately, and it may take up to two weeks to see how the final effect of the Botox.

How Long Will Botox and Fillers Last?

Neither Botox or fillers are a permanent treatment. After a certain time period, you will no longer see effects from the Botox or the filler. The amount of time that your injectable lasts will vary depending on how often you get the injectable and your own unique healing rate. On average, Botox will last somewhere between three to four months. The rate that fillers will go away varies depending on which filler you select. Some fillers just last around six months while others may last even longer than two years.

Which One Is Right for You?

When deciding between fillers and Botox, there is no certain answer about which is better. Instead, you need to think about your desired results to find the best option. Botox is better for reducing and preventing wrinkles related to muscles while fillers may be better for contouring the face. You can always talk to a plastic surgery expert to find out the recommended treatment for your situation.

At the New York Center for Facial, Plastic, and Laser Surgery, Dr. Andrew Jacono, MD, FACS has perfected a variety of non-surgical face restoration techniques. As a dual board certified facial plastic and reconstructive surgeon, Dr. Jacono has an extensive amount of experience with improving the aesthetics of the face. If you are trying to decide between Botox and fillers, the experts at his clinic can provide useful information about which option will work best for you. Call us at 212-570-2500 or visit site http://www.newyorkfacialplasticsurgery.com to set up a consultation today.