Blog

Blog

What is the difference between dermal fillers and Botox?

Published on December 31, 2018
By Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery of Acadiana

As we get older, our skin undergoes a number of changes. Most noticeably it becomes drier and thinner, and this can cause it to lose much of its natural elasticity. When this happens, it can begin to droop, causing lines and wrinkles and sagging around the jawline.

This can also make the cheeks look hollow and drawn, giving the impression of aging. When you combine this with added damage caused by UV exposure, harsh winter weather, and toxins such as nicotine that our skin is exposed to, the effects are intensified.

If you are unhappy with certain aspects of your face and feel as though you look older or more tired than you really are, you may well be considering cosmetic procedures to improve your appearance and help you look younger. 

Non-invasive cosmetic enhancements are extremely popular and tend to be the best option for patients who wish to see a significant change in their face, but do not wish to opt for facelift surgery. Two of the most common non-invasive cosmetic treatments currently available are Botox and dermal fillers. However, many people are confused about what each treatment entails and which is right to correct the issues that most concern them.   

To help you decide which is the most appropriate treatment for you, here is what you need to know about the differences between dermal fillers and Botox.

 

Dermal Fillers

Dermal fillers, also sometimes referred to as facial fillers, can be successfully used to eliminate the signs of aging. The way in which they do this is by filling areas of the face that have lost volume with collagen.

Collagen is a naturally-occurring protein that helps keep our skin plump and soft. However, our production of collagen is one of the things that slows as we age, and it is the lack of this protein that causes our skin to sag. By filling the target areas with collagen, not only can your cosmetic specialist replace that which was lost, but new collagen growth will also be stimulated. The result is skin that looks thicker and more radiant, and smoother since lines and wrinkles are filled, and more youthful.

 

Where can dermal fillers be used?

Dermal fillers can be placed in different parts of the face, including around the eyes, in the cheeks, around the mouth and jawline. If you wish to improve the size of your lips, you should consider specialist lip fillers. Our cosmetic specialist will help you to determine which areas you should target to achieve the result that you desire.

 

Botox

Botox is derived from a type of neurotoxin which is medically approved for use in cosmetic enhancements. It works by blocking signals from the nerves to the muscles in your face, preventing them from contracting. Since the injected muscle can no longer contract and cause the skin to wrinkle up, both deep and fine lines are significantly reduced, helping your skin to look smoother and younger. Since it targets the smoothness of the skin rather than the fullness, it is not recommended for patients who are looking to restore volume in their face. 

 

Where can Botox be used?

Botox can be used on various areas of the face but is most often administered to the forehead, around the eyes and in the lines that extend from the nose to the mouth, and the mouth to the chin. It can also be used to alter the appearance of the lips. 

 

Similarities between Botox and dermal fillers

Although they are different in their approach, dermal fillers and Botox have a number of similarities. Both are:

  • Temporary with the results lasting a number of months before further treatment is required
  • Non-invasive
  • Administered via injection 
  • Considered safe and low risk
  • Short procedures that can be performed in a lunch break

You can also expect to return to your usual activities shortly after your chosen cosmetic procedure.

 

If you have further questions about the differences between dermal fillers and Botox or are unsure which is right for you, our dedicated cosmetic enhancement team would be happy to offer their support and assistance. Call Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery of Acadiana today at 337-226-0400 to learn more.