5 Differences Between Botox and Dermal Fillers

istock_000007524032large-compressorAre you a Morristown woman looking to get rid of unsightly, age-revealing wrinkles? Are you trying to determine which treatment is the best option for you – Botox or dermal fillers – but are confused about the two different solutions? Morristown plastic surgeon Dr. Comizio is here to help you discover the differences between these two solutions and help determine which is right for you. Read on to learn five differences between Botox and dermal fillers

1.    Botox and Dermal Fillers Work Differently.

Both Botox and dermal fillers reduce the appearance of wrinkles, but the two products work very differently. Botox is a highly purified toxin that slows down your face’s natural muscle contractions, contractions which over time lead to wrinkles such as horizontal forehead wrinkles, crow’s feet, and frown lines. Dermal fillers, on the other hand, inject material into the body, to add subtle volume to the face and lift and smooth out wrinkles.

2.    The Differences Between Botox and Dermal Filler Treatments.

Botox is the most common cosmetic procedure in the United States, and it is very safe. The treatment involves injections in the skin, and may leave slight bruising and in rare cases cause droopy eyelids or eyebrows that typically resolve themselves within two weeks. Botox treatments typically last between 3 and a half to 4 months. Dermal fillers typically take about 30 to 45 minutes to complete, and you can experience some slight bruising or swelling with the procedure. The results from dermal fillers last significantly longer than Botox, usually 10-12 months. Some fillers such as Sculptra or Juvederm Voluma may last 18-24 months.

3.    What Makes Someone a Good Candidate for Botox or Dermal Fillers?

Botox is primarily used for patients who have crow’s feet, horizontal forehead lines, and frown lines. Dermal fillers are ideal for patients who have other wrinkles, or patients who have lost volume in the face and live very active lifestyles preferring to avoid surgery.

4.    Why Should Someone Avoid Botox or Dermal Fillers?

Even though they are safe products that produce incredible results, Botox, and dermal fillers are not for everyone. Morristown patients should avoid Botox if they have certain medical conditions, such as those requiring blood thinners, or if they are pregnant or breastfeeding. Pregnant and breastfeeding Morristown mothers should also avoid dermal fillers.

5.    What Results Do Botox and Dermal Fillers Provide?

When choosing between Botox and dermal fillers, Morristown patients are especially interested in the results the two products provide. Botox alleviates wrinkles that are caused by facial expressions, while dermal fillers reduce the appearance of other annoying wrinkles on the face. In most cases of both Botox and dermal fillers, a patient may have a particular line they are concerned about, but a skilled plastic surgeon like Dr. Comizio may find other lines that are contributing to an overall tired, grumpy or aged look. In that case, multiple wrinkle lines will need to be treated. The results of Botox and fillers are usually complementary and may be used in concert to achieve the desired results.

I Still Have Questions About Botox and Dermal Fillers. What Should I Do?

If you still have questions about the differences between Botox and dermal fillers, the best thing you can do is schedule an appointment with Morristown plastic surgeon Dr. Comizio at (973) 775-9248 for a full consultation and conversation about the differences between Botox and dermal fillers.