You’ve probably heard much ado about dermal fillers and BOTOX® Cosmetic and the various concerns they treat, from crow’s feet to the 11s to bunny lines, tear troughs, laugh lines, and more. Perhaps you’re considering which treatment to choose but unsure where to start. Before visiting us, it’s important to understand that not all injectables are the same. In reality, BOTOX and dermal fillers work in very different ways.
How will those differences affect your decision about the right treatment for you? Here are answers to 5 frequently asked questions that can help you understand your best option.
1. How Does BOTOX Work?
BOTOX is derived from botulinum toxin type A, which temporarily relaxes facial muscles to reduce the “dynamic wrinkles” formed by squinting, laughing, and making other repetitive facial movements. BOTOX treats concerns such as crow’s feet, frown lines, and forehead lines and prevents new wrinkles from forming.
Does BOTOX look natural? If you’re concerned that BOTOX will make you look frozen, don’t be! Our skilled injectors use precisely the right dosage to preserve your natural facial expressions while helping you look more vibrant and alert.
2. Where Can Dermal Fillers Be Used?
While BOTOX relaxes muscles to smooth expression lines, dermal fillers containing hyaluronic acid add volume in areas of the face such as the cheeks and lips and around the eyes and mouth. Dermal fillers are also commonly used to sculpt the chin and jawline. While many types of dermal fillers are on the market, our medical spa offers the trusted Juvéderm® family of fillers, which are ideal for softening, plumping, and sculpting aging skin and facial features.
3. How Long Does It Take BOTOX & Filler To Work?
How quickly you can see your BOTOX results may be important, especially if you’re timing your treatment before a special event. Your results will become visible within 3 to 5 days, with full results taking up to 2 weeks to appear. Results appear more gradually because it takes some time for BOTOX to bind to the muscle nerve endings. On the other hand, dermal filler results are usually immediate.
4. How Long Do Dermal Fillers & BOTOX Last?
Your dermal filler results can last anywhere from 6 months to 2 years, depending on the area being treated and the type of filler used. BOTOX typically lasts 3 to 4 months, and more frequent touch-ups are necessary to help you maintain your youthful glow.
5. Can I Benefit By Combining Dermal Fillers With BOTOX?
Many patients can achieve the results they’re after when we combine dermal fillers with BOTOX. This approach is often called a “liquid facelift” because we use injections rather than incisions. While the results of a liquid facelift aren’t as dramatic or long-lasting as a surgical facelift, it’s an effective technique to help patients address minor wrinkles, volume loss, and other early signs of aging.
When it comes down to it, BOTOX is a preferred approach for patients primarily concerned about wrinkles and frown lines, while patients who want to restore facial volume are ideal candidates for dermal fillers. Combining both methods offers comprehensive facial rejuvenation.
Are you interested in exploring your options further? Request a consultation online or call us at (907) 563-2002 to get started.
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