According to the latest plastic surgery statistics report from the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, there were approximately 7.4 million injections of botulinum toxin (Botox) and 2.6 million dermal filler injections in 2018. This made fillers and Botox the top two most popular minimally invasive cosmetic procedures in America.
At Rodgers Dermatology, these are very popular cosmetic procedures as well. There are several similarities and differences between the two options, but one thing is the same for both. Dr. Rodgers and our staff are extremely experienced and qualified to provide these injections. We have treated thousands of patients and consistently achieved outstanding results.
Botox vs. dermal fillers
First, let’s look at a few similarities and differences between these options. Dermal fillers add volume and smooth wrinkles in areas such as the lips, nasolabial folds (lines between the nose and the corners of the mouth), and marionette lines (smile lines around the corners of the mouth). We use fillers primarily in wrinkles or lines that are not caused by muscle movement, but those that are caused by aging.
With Botox, we are injecting in areas where we want to relax the muscles that cause frown lines, crow’s feet, and other conditions. This freezes muscles to stop creases and wrinkles caused by facial expressions and muscle movement. These wrinkles are typically found in the upper face, such as the forehead and around the eyes.
Because Botox and fillers are different substances designed for various uses, we can sometimes combine them into one treatment. For example, we could use Botox to correct lines between the eyes and a filler to correct smile lines around the mouth. Many patients like the option to address these issues at the same time.
More about Botox
Botox was discovered in the 1950s and is a substance that temporarily blocks the signal from nerves to muscles in the area where it is injected. This causes relaxation of the muscle and a reduction in wrinkles. The muscles are essentially paralyzed to provide a smoother, fuller look.
At Rodgers Dermatology, it is important to us that we listen to the results our patients are hoping for, then we customize their plan to deliver those results. Everyone is different, so we feel it’s best to change the dosage and injection points to meet your goals. We consider age, gender, and ethnicity when designing a treatment plan for natural results.
Advantages of Botox include no anesthesia, no downtime, and no scarring. The procedure takes only a matter of minutes and is performed in our office. Typically, you will see Botox results in a few days, and they should last three to five months.
Botox may also be helpful for those who experience migraines, those who sweat excessively, or those who grind their teeth. We will likely work closely with other doctors on your care team in these cases.
More about dermal fillers
The primary dermal fillers we use include Juvederm, Restylane, and Perlane. These treatments replace lost fullness, restore youthful contours in the face, and smooth away wrinkles and folds. The fillers we inject are composed of naturally-occurring substances in your skin. Dr. Rodgers will decide which product is right for you based on an evaluation.
Many signs of aging are more obvious, such as fine lines, wrinkles, and brown spots. But loss of volume in the cheeks, temples, and lips can cause you to look tired, drawn, and sagging.
Some of the most common reasons why men and women choose dermal fillers include:
- Restore or enhance lip volume and plumpness
- Reduce lipstick or smoker’s lines around the mouth
- Add volume to the cheeks to restore a more youthful appearance
- Smooth out smile lines
- Decrease hollowness around the eyes
- Restore volume to the back of the hands
Dermal fillers can provide a variety of benefits, either alone in combination with other treatments. Just like with Botox, we will discuss your goals and develop a personalized treatment plan.
Which one is right for you?
We will always do a consultation to make sure we are choosing the right treatment option: Botox or dermal fillers. As with all medical procedures, both options come with the risk of side effects, so be sure you talk more with us about those. We will also need to know if you have any pre-existing medical conditions. Dermal fillers are not a good fit for those who smoke.
Generally speaking, we only recommend Botox or dermal fillers if you are in good health. This reduces any risk of side effects and ensures our chances for a successful outcome.
When the time comes that you are ready to consider Botox and/or dermal fillers, don’t look to your nail salon, your dentist, a med spa, or any other entity that may have jumped on the injectables train due to its increasing popularity. Come to a provider that has years of experience with both options and a track record of achieving consistent results. Schedule your consultation today.