People often compare Botox vs fillers as these are two of the most common cosmetic procedures requested to reduce signs of aging. In fact, dermal fillers, also known as facial fillers, are only second to Botox when it comes to the most requested non-surgical cosmetic procedures.
While both Botox and dermal fillers rejuvenate and enhance the skin, they are different procedures and each offers distinct benefits. In this blog, we’ll explore the differences in Botox vs dermal fillers, covering everything from how they work to potential side effects. And we’ll answer questions such as, How does Botox work (and fillers, too)? Whether you’re looking to smooth wrinkles or reduce a gummy smile, understanding the differences between these popular treatments will help you choose the best procedure for your goals.
What is the Difference Between Botox and Dermal Fillers?
While there are many differences in Botox vs fillers, the key difference is how each injection produces results. Botox freezes your muscles around the injection sites while dermal fillers add volume and smoothness by “filling in” the treated areas. Here’s a few other differences you should be aware of when comparing Botox vs dermal fillers.
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Cost
At first glance, Botox is often considered a less expensive cosmetic procedure when comparing Botox vs fillers. The average cost of a Botox session is less than that of a facial fillers session, but people often need Botox injections more frequently than facial filler injections.
The type of facial filler used will also affect the cost of your procedure. The three most common brands of facial filler are Restylane®, Juvéderm®, and Belotero Balance®. Each of these brands make different types of filler to use based on the area being treated and your goals.
Your dermatologist can help you determine a more accurate cost based on your goals, individual characteristics, and more.
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Some Side Effects
While there are possible side effects of Botox and fillers that are similar, there are some side effects that are not common for both procedures.
Possible side effects of Botox that are not often seen with dermal fillers include drooping of the eyelid, weakness or paralysis of muscles near the injection site, gallbladder complications, and flu-like symptoms.
Possible side effects of dermal fillers not common with Botox injections include pimple-like eruptions, asymmetry, death of skin cells due to loss of blood flow to the treated area, and the ability to feel the filler under the skin.
After learning some of these possible side effects, you might be asking yourself, Is Botox safe? Are fillers? Yes, both Botox and dermal filler injections are safe when they are performed by a highly trained or board-certified professional.
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Reversible Procedures?
Botox injections are not reversible, but filler can be dissolved. However, neither of these procedures are permanent, so with time, results from Botox and fillers will fade on their own.
What are Dermal Fillers and Botox Used For?
As you learned in the previous section, there are more than a few differences in Botox vs dermal fillers. So when you’re determining whether Botox vs fillers is the right cosmetic dermatology procedure for your desired outcomes, you’ll want to know what each of these treatments are used for.
Dermal fillers are used to add support to your facial structure and tissues that may have lost volume or density over time. Fillers do this by inflating, or plumping, the skin with hyaluronic acid. Dermal fillers are most commonly used to add volume to the cheeks, lips, and hands, as well as fill parentheses lines around the mouth and correct vertical lip lines.
Fillers are also used to diminish horizontal forehead lines and correct under-eye circles and down-turned corners of the mouth. Filler can help to smooth the jawline and chin wrinkles and add volume to the temples.
Botox is used to slow and relax muscle movements by injecting botulinum toxin in very small concentrations. It’s commonly used to reduce frown lines between your eyes, lines on the forehead, and crow’s feet. It can also improve down-turned corners of your mouth, a gummy smile, and neck bands, as well as give the effect of a brow lift.
Medical uses for Botox include reducing hyperhidrosis, or excessive sweating, depression symptoms, and migraines.
What Lasts Longer: Botox or Fillers?
In general, dermal fillers last longer than Botox. However, since Botox and fillers are used to treat different areas and achieve different results, how long the effects of these injections last is not exactly comparable.
Botox injections last 3 to 6 months, though you may notice that your results last longer after your second injection. Longer lasting results are a product of your muscles near the injection sites shortening and becoming smaller as they are used less often.
The answer to ‘How long do dermal fillers last?’ is determined by the type of filler used, which changes based on the area being treated and the desired outcomes. Thinner fillers, like those used to smooth wrinkles, can last 6 to 12 months. Deeper injections can last up to a year, and newer fillers can last up to two years.
Which is Better: Botox or Fillers?
Determining if Botox vs fillers are the better cosmetic procedure can only be answered on a case by case basis. There are many differences between these cosmetic procedures, from the type of product injected, to the different areas Botox and fillers are used to treat, to the different outcomes for each product. You and your dermatologist can more accurately come to a conclusion on this question once you’ve discussed your medical history, your goals, and more.
The comparison of Botox vs fillers is not just about their differences but also understanding which one suits your cosmetic goals. Each procedure comes with its own set of considerations, and ultimately, the decision between Botox vs dermal fillers is best made with the expertise of a dermatologist who can assess your individual characteristics and goals.
Wondering which is right for you? Schedule a consultation with our dermatologists here at Vujevich Dermatology Associates to compare Botox vs fillers and best reach your cosmetic goals. We’re here to guide you through the process and help you feel your best. You can reach us at 412-429-2570 or visit our contact page to book your appointment. You can also follow us on Facebook to see what’s new in the world of dermatology.