Wrinkle treatment options are becoming more popular . Patients are turning people to their professional injectors such as Family Doctors, Derms, nurses etc for lasting options. Botulinum toxin type A ( Botox)and dermal fillers are both long-lasting treatments. Each procedure can be used for wrinkles, but there are several differences between the two to consider.
Uses
Botox and dermal fillers alike are used to treat wrinkles on the face. Each treatment is also delivered by injection. Still, both options have slightly different uses.
Botox
Botox itself is a muscle relaxer made from bacteria. It’s been on the market for over two decades, and has been used to treat neurological disorders that cause muscle weakness. It’s also used for the treatment of migraines, TMJ, Excessive Sweating and other medical conditions.
For wrinkle treatment, Botox is primarily used to treat dynamic wrinkles. These wrinkles occur naturally around the eyes mouth, forehead (Glabella) as well as over your nose . They become more pronounced with age. Botox injections relax the muscles near these wrinkles. Not allowing the muscles to move reduces the appearance of dynamic wrinkles.
Botox is also used at VIP MEDSPA a in our famous VIP GLASS SKIN TREATMENT. This is where we mix Botox, HA and other peptide to inject under the skin on the entire face, resulting in a dewy, glass like texture of the skin.
When using Botox to treat wrinkles around the forehead, eyes, mouth , lips etc our highly trained medical doctor, will expertly inject the muscles that contribute to the specific wrinkles you want treated. The injection process only takes a few minutes , no downtime and noticeable results within two weeks. If your injector has a keen eye for aesthetics and pay attention to details you’ll never look done, you should love more relaxed and the best version of yourself.
Dermal fillers
Dermal fillers also treat wrinkles on the face. They’re mainly used to treat smile lines, lips, cheek enhancement, tear troughs ( under eyes) temples, jawline contouring . Sometimes, they’re also used for hand treatments or to reduce the appearance of scars or neck lines. Dermal fillers aren’t approved for plumping up other areas of the body, though, such as the breasts.
Dermal fillers come in different forms, and like Botox, they’re injectable. Most are temporary , can last up to 1 year and used primarily for soft tissues in the face along the smile lines. These are some fillers that are approved by FDA calcium hydroxylapatite (Radiesse), a temporary gel solution that lasts for 18 months collagen, a temporary material that lasts for up to four months hyaluronic acid, a temporary material that loses its effect after 6 to 12 months poly-L-lactic acid (Sculptra, Sculptra Aesthetic), a man-made material that lasts about two years polymethylmethacrylate beads, the only permanent type of dermal filler available At VIP MEDSPA we mostly use 1-3 .
Efficacy
Is Botox effective?
Botox injections produce results for most people. You’ll likely see noticeable effects within a week of the injection. Side effects are minimal, and most go away after a short time. You may not notice the full effects of Botox if you have certain conditions that prevent them. Your medical history is usually reviewed by our medical doctor at time of consultation. Please let him know if you have any medical conditions, it will help your results.
Once you receive the injections, you’ll be able to continue your daily activities without any recovery time. The effects of Botox last about 3 to 4 months. Then, you’ll need additional treatments if you want to maintain the results.
How effective are dermal fillers?
Dermal fillers are very effective, and the results last longer than that of Botox overall. Still, results differ depending on the exact type of filler you choose. Like Botox, you’ll need maintenance treatments once the fillers wear off. Usually after 9 months of your last treatment.
Side effects
As with all medical procedures, both Botox and dermal fillers can come with the risk of side effects. There are also special considerations to discuss with your medical injector if you have preexisting medical conditions. We will help you to Weigh your risks and benefits thoroughly.
Botox risks and side effects
Botox is only recommended for people in good health to reduce the risk of side effects.
Possible side effects include:
bruises at the site of injection
drooping eyelids, which can take several weeks to resolve
eye redness and irritation
headaches
Taking eye drops before receiving Botox injections may help reduce the chances of some side effects. You should also stop taking any blood thinners a few days before to prevent bruising.
Botox isn’t recommended if you:
- are pregnant or nursing
- have weak facial muscles
- currently have skin issues, such as thick skin or deep scars
- have MS or any other type of neuromuscular disease
Risks and side effects of dermal fillers
Dermal fillers carry the possibility of more risks and side effects than Botox. Severe side effects are rare. Moderate side effects usually go away within two weeks.
Some side effects include:
- allergic reaction
- bruising
- infection
- itching
- numbness
- redness
- scarring
- sores
In severe cases, long-term swelling of the face might occur. Ice packs can help alleviate temporary numbness and swelling. Stay away from injectors that uses a GUN to inject dermal fillers. It should only be injected using needles or Cannulas . Cannulas are used for injecting in some parts of the face and some procedures, the art of Injecting with Cannulas make the treatment more comfortable, you’ll experience less bruising and less likely to have any complications related to fillers. Dermal fillers are discouraged for people who smoke. As with Botox injections, you’ll receive the best results and fewer side effects if you’re in overall good health.
Cost, availability, and procedure
Both Botox and dermal fillers involve relatively simple procedures performed at our clinic by our medical doctor , but you’ll need a consultation first. Neither procedure is covered by insurance, but financing or payment options are available .
Botox
Botox injections are administered by healthcare providers who specialize in treating any part of the face. At VIP MEDSPA Botox injections are done by our trained medical doctor. One of the advantages of Botox is that the injections are safe and effective for most people without the need for surgery or recovery time. Botox can seem like a more affordable option. The average cost of a session is about $400, depending on what areas are being treated as well as who your injector is. You will definitely need more injections (needle pokes ) than you would with dermal fillers.
Dermal fillers
Like Botox , Dermal fillers are injected by trained healthcare providers, such as medical doctors, RN’s & NP’s The cost of dermal fillers varies by Brand & type filler is used as well as how many are used. Fillers are measured in CC, 1 syringe =1CC. 1 syringe or 1 CC of filler is a very small amount. At time of consultation our injector and consultant will give you an estimate of the cost depending on your treatment goals.
Bottom line
Dermal fillers might produce more long-term results, but these injections also carry more side effects than Botox injections. You should also keep in mind that Botox and dermal fillers treat slightly different problems and are usually used in different areas of the face. They may also be used in conjunction as complimentary treatments to achieve your desired results.
Consultations are very important before these treatments, an in depth consultation with our injector , our trained medical Doctor will help you make the right decision if Botox & Dermal fillers are right for you.
