Have you heard about the zoom effect? If not, you are in for a surprise. We all know that the pandemic has made us spend more time with our phones and video calls. This has increased appearance concerns and consequently the demand for aesthetic procedures. We all want to look young and beautiful. It is impossible to stop ageing (at least not yet), but procedures like Botox can help maintain youthful skin. At our skin rejuvenation clinic, we offer all kinds of services starting from chemical peels to Botox in the San Jose area. 

There are many myths and speculations around Botox but often people confuse Botox with fillers. While both Botox and fillers are minimally invasive cosmetic treatments, they are very different from each other.

What Is Botox?

Botox is the most popular non-surgical cosmetic procedure and had been so for quite some time. Botox is commonly used to treat fine lines and wrinkles. 

Botox involves the use of Botulinum toxin (a neurotoxin) which helps paralyze the muscles. The botulinum toxin is injected into the area to be treated and the temporary paralysis effect reduces the wrinkling and sagging. 

Regulated amounts of the botulinum toxin are used for treatment and depending on the efficiency the wrinkles might be softened, reduced, or even removed. 

What Are Fillers?

Fillers are injectables that are used to add volume and fullness to sunken skin. Dermal fillers often use substances like calcium hydroxyapatite, hyaluronic acid and polylactic acid.  

The filler is selected depending on the skin condition that it is being used to treat. Dermal fillers are used to fight the signs of aging and also have some cosmetic uses. 

The time needed to see results and the time duration for which they last are also different with different fillers. It is best to talk to your dermatologist or esthetician about your needs to help select the appropriate filler for you. 

Read Also: Types of Wrinkle Fillers

When to Choose Botox over Fillers?

It solely depends on the patient and his/her skin type. Aging can be different for every individual. Some people may encounter wrinkles first while some may notice sunken skin. Also, depending on the skin condition and area to be treated, you can select the right treatment. 

• Forehead: This is an area that is prone to wrinkles. Starting Botox at a younger age can treat the wrinkles before they get etched into the skin. 

• Eyes: While you can benefit from both Botox and fillers in this area, make sure to go with a certified professional since it is a crucial area. Botox is recommended for treating crow’s feet while fillers are recommended for treating sunken and tired eyes. 

• Lips: Both fillers and Botox can be used to get those plump lips but with Botox, the results take time to become visible. 

We recommend that you discuss this with the dermatologist to arrive on a suitable treatment option for you. 

Botox vs Fillers – Effectiveness

Each procedure has its own use. For example, Botox can be used preventatively while fillers can be used effectively in the under-eye, cheeks and jawline areas. 

You can get Botox even before you start to notice the wrinkles but fillers are used after the aging effects become apparent. 

Usually, results from Botox treatment last for about 3 to 6 months. Hyaluronic acid fillers like Restylane and Juvederm can last for 6-12 months while calcium hydroxyapatite fillers like Radiesse can last up to 15 months. 

Botox vs Fillers – Cost

Many factors influence the cost of the treatments. Some of them include:

• The product used

• The clinic from which you are getting the procedure

• The condition that is being treated

• How advanced the condition is

While the specific costs may vary, fillers are generally more expensive than Botox. 

Botox vs Fillers – Side Effects

Botox and fillers are both injected into the skin and hence have potential side effects. Some of them are listed below. 

• The patient might experience temporary swelling or bruising since there are needles involved. Your dermatologist might prescribe some anti-bruising supplements and creams. You can also use ice packs after treatment to reduce swelling. 

• Larger needles are used for fillers and thus there might be slightly more pain or discomfort during the procedure when compared to Botox. But a topical numbing agent is often administered before the procedure to deal with the pain. 

• Excess Botox administered in an area can lead to frozen features which can correct themselves over time. Overfilling or injecting the fillers into a blood vessel is a bigger concern. Hence, make sure to always choose a certified and professional skin rejuvenation clinic to get the procedure done. 

Rani MD

We believe in the magic of a healthy body and a healthy mind. We offer different kinds of services like Botox, Morpheus laser and more. Visit our site to know more. https://ranimd.com/