A Guide to Choosing Botox vs. Fillers 

Botox and fillers are often talked about interchangeably as a way to improve the appearance of skin. But what’s the difference between the two? Which is the best to have, and can you have them both together?

The ultimate way to decide which would be best for you—or, indeed, if you should have a combination treatment—is to seek expert dermatological advice. However, understanding a little about Botox & fillers beforehand will help you make an informed decision when you undergo your initial consultation. 

Botox & Fillers: Everything you need to know

• What is Botox?
• What are fillers? 

What is Botox? 

Botox treatment involves injecting tiny amounts of botulinum toxin into specific areas, generally the face, to correct wrinkles and fine lines. This blocks the nerves that supply signals to the muscles below, freezing them and softening the appearance of wrinkles.  The effects can be quite dramatic and last for around 3-4 months.

Botox is used to treat lines on the upper face. Crow’s feet, forehead wrinkles, and lines between the brows are the most common. The procedure is best thought of as one that can improve facial imperfections caused by expressions, such as laughing, smiling, and frowning.

Botox can’t treat what’s known as “static wrinkles”. These are those caused by a loss of plumpness or sagging in the skin that’s commonly seen around the jowls, on the cheeks, and on the neck.

What are fillers 

The use of fillers is a way to add plumpness and volume to the skin. It involves injecting a substance below the surface of the skin to increase the fullness of the area. The substances used include:

• Hyaluronic acid
• Polylactic acid
• Calcium hydroxyapatite
• Polyalkylimide
• Polymethyl-methacrylate microspheres 

These are a combination of compounds found naturally within the body and collagen stimulants. Together, they can be highly effective at reducing the signs of aging and improving the look of static wrinkles.

Some of the skin imperfections they’re used to treat include: 

• Filling in wrinkles
• Plumping thinning lips
• Reducing hollow cheeks or other facial shallow areas
• Decreasing under eye shadows or wrinkles
• Filling in deep or recessed scars

The effects of filler treatment can last anywhere from 6 months to a couple of years. 

Botox & Fillers: The key differences 

• Botox vs. fillers  

Botox vs. Fillers

The key differences between the two treatments can be summed up as follows: 

• Fillers are used to rectify facial areas that have lost smoothness and volume. In other words, they “fill in” and plump up the skin that’s lost its natural fullness. They’re most commonly used on the lower half of the face, such as the lips, wrinkles around the mouth, and the cheeks.
• Botox paralyzes the muscles beneath wrinkles and creases that are caused by facial expressions, softening and reducing their appearance. The most common applications are performed on the upper half of the face—the forehead, between the eyebrows, and around the eyes.

As you can see, Botox & fillers are two distinctly different treatments. It’s common to have the two used consecutively as they each target different regions of the face and two very different issues. A good dermatologist will pinpoint the exact areas to inject either Botox or fillers. The results are directly impacted by the skill of the practitioner—you can almost think of it as an art form, rather than a semi-surgical procedure. 

This makes your choice of provider one that should be taken with care. Experience and results are something you should question and be satisfied with before making your final decision. Any good dermatologist will be happy to show you (anonymized) results and answer any questions you might have. 

Considering Botox, Fillers, or Both? Make an Appointment with Bayou City Today

Bayou City Dermatology is a leading provider of all dermatological treatments, including Botox, fillers, and more. Our board-certified professionals will carry out a full consultation, including understanding your expectations and goals. Only then will they advise the ultimate treatment or treatments that will lead to the youthful and beautiful skin you desire. 

Start the journey now. Visit https://www.bayoucitydermatology.com/cosmetic/botox for more information and call to book your consultation.

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