Botox vs. Fillers

Botox vs. Fillers

      So you have been thinking about it for awhile now, maybe one of your friends has taken the plunge and loves the results. Or you have seen the face of your favorite celebrity looking a little refreshed, then you might be ready to have something done for yourself. Whatever age you are, as soon as you start to see those tiny fine lines then it might be time to consider seeing your dermatologist to have some injectables done. You have a few choices to consider. Botox or fillers? Here is the lowdown on each of these injectable cosmetic procedures.

Botox, the One and Only

  Botox or as it is known in the medical world as “onabotulinumtoxinA” is a prescription medication that is used to treat a variety of conditions. For cosmetic reasons, it’s injected into the muscle so primary it alleviates the appearance of fine lines and deep wrinkles. The way that it works is by temporarily freezing the muscle which in turn makes the line or wrinkle appear less noticeable. Usually this lasts anywhere from 3-6 months.

    It can be performed relatively quickly in a doctor’s office with minimal discomfort. Popular spots to have it done are between the brows, where people sometimes get a significant decrease, for crow’s feet around the eye area, smile lines, and even horizontal lines across the forehead can be greatly improved with just the first treatment. Sometimes you might have some slight bruising or swelling in the area when initially done, but as long as you don’t suffer any major allergic reaction to the Botox you should be fine.

Types of Fillers

   Fillers are a substance that is injected into the line or wrinkle that plumps it up to make it appear diminished. They can also be used to add volume under the eye, and cheek areas to make the person appear more youthful. Some common fillers that dermotologists use are hyaluronic acid fillers such as the brand name “Juvederm” or “Restylane.” Hyaluronic acid fillers can actually last a little longer than Botox, from a few months to a couple of years.

    Other fillers are synthetic or collagen based in nature. You have to be very careful with those because if they aren’t done correctly they can actually cause permanent disfigurement. So make sure you are seeing a reputable dermatologist who has years of experience with these forms of cosmetic procedures. One last form of filler that you can consider is “autologous” which uses your own fat deposits to plump up areas you want filled. They take the fat from sections of your stomach, thighs or buttock and then inject it into your face. It has to be done in two separate procedures, but considering the injectable is coming from your own body some people view this as more natural, since the FDA doesn’t have to approve it.

A Few Helpful Tips

You might have heard of some “Botox or Filler” parties in your area. This is not recommended. All Botox and filler procedures should be done in a medical office with sterilized tools. It’s also a bit of buyer beware on this one, if the price seems too low then you might want to go elsewhere to a more reputable place. Check for recommendations from friends or colleagues, rather than reviews online which can easily be fabricated to falsely highlight a doctor’s practice.

Watch out for adverse reactions when you first get the procedure of injectables done to make sure you aren’t going to  experience a more severe allergic reaction. This is basically a safe cosmetic procedure when done correctly, and not overused. You still want to be able to move your face in a natural way. Many people like a combination of light Botox, and fillers to get the most natural ageless look possible.