Botox and fillers are both effective treatments for addressing fine lines and wrinkles, among other cosmetic concerns. These medical treatments are very popular among individuals who want to look their best. However, many people have questions about what the difference is between Botox and fillers. By fully understanding what each treatment is designed to do, it will be easier for people to choose the best option to address their unique cosmetic concerns.
What Is Botox?
Botox is a neurotoxin that is derived from the bacterium Clostridium botulinum. It works by temporarily paralyzing the muscles. The skin can no longer crease and fold into lines and wrinkles when this is done. This treatment works especially well on areas around the face such as the forehead, between the eyebrows, and around the eyes. It is commonly used in small doses, in the following ways:
Smoothing over facial wrinkles
Botox is FDA-approved to smooth over facial wrinkles, such as the crow’s feet around your eyes, forehead, and laugh lines.
Reducing severe cases of uncontrollable underarm sweat
Botox injections can reduce excessive sweating in your armpits. This is a solution that many find unorthodox, but it is a viable solution that is slowly gaining popularity.
Treating migraines
Botox can be injected into certain muscles to reduce migraine tension and pain.
Bladder issues
Botox may be used to treat uncontrolled urination, such as urinary incontinence.
Cervical dystonia
Botox also effectively treats cervical dystonia, or chronic muscle spasms, in the neck and shoulder muscles.
Nonstop blinking
If you constantly blink your eyes or have an uncontrollable tic, Botox can help stop the spasms causing the problem.
While it is effective for treating many different medical concerns, there are some areas where it is not as successful. Botox should not be used to treat areas that are already smooth, such as around the mouth or nose. It is also not recommended for pregnant women or those who are breastfeeding.
What Are Fillers?
Fillers are substances that are injected into the skin in order to fill in wrinkles, lines, and scars. There are many different types of fillers available on the market. The most common fillers are made from hyaluronic acid, a naturally occurring substance in the body that provides volume and fullness.
Fillers can be used to correct a variety of cosmetic concerns, including:
Enhancing the lips
Many people use fillers to enhance their lips by making them fuller and more voluptuous.
Fill in shallow contours
If you have lost volume in your face due to aging, fillers can be used to fill in the shallow contours and give you a more youthful appearance.
Smoothing out wrinkles and lines
Fillers can also be used to smooth out the appearance of wrinkles and lines, giving you a more youthful look.
Filling in acne scars
If you have acne scars, fillers can be used to fill in the indentations and give your skin a smoother appearance.
Reduce lower eyelid shadow
If you have dark circles or puffiness under your eyes, fillers can be used to reduce the shadowing and give you a brighter appearance.
Using the appropriate filler can effectively enhance your appearance and give you a more youthful look, addressing the above concerns and more.
Do Fillers Hurt More Than Botox?
While Botox is a neurotoxin that paralyzes the muscles to give you an appearance of smooth skin, fillers are used by injecting a substance into the skin to give you a more youthful appearance.
Both procedures are performed by an experienced cosmetic dermatologist or plastic surgeon, and they will both cause some discomfort. However, most people find that the pain from fillers is more intense than the pain from Botox injections. This is because Botox is injected into the muscle, while fillers are injected into the skin.
While the pain from the injections is temporary, you will likely experience some swelling and bruising after the procedure that could prolong the pain. However, both procedures are relatively safe, and the side effects are temporary. While there is some discomfort associated with both types of injections, most people find that the results are worth it.
Long Term Effects of Dermal Fillers and Botox
One of the most common concerns that people have when they are considering dermal fillers is what happens in the long term. People want to know how long the results will last and if their appearance will change over time.
The truth is that while Botox injections are temporary, the results will last anywhere from three to six months. After that time, you will need to get another treatment to maintain the appearance. On the other hand, fillers can last anywhere from six to eighteen months. This depends on the type of filler that is used, as well as how much filler is injected during the procedure. The results are not permanent, so you will need to consider getting touch-ups every so often.
Both Botox and fillers are safe and effective procedures, but they each have their own unique benefits. By understanding the differences between Botox and fillers, you can decide which procedure is right for you.
What First Timers Should Consider Before Choosing Botox or Fillers
It is a difficult decision to make, especially if you consider Botox or fillers for the first time. One must take a true assessment of how troubled they are by the signs of aging, and how much it is affecting their self-esteem. The decision between Botox or fillers must be made with careful consideration.
Some things you may want to consider before making your decision:
- How much are you willing to spend on treatments?
- How long do you want the results to last?
- How much discomfort are you willing to endure?
- Is downtime a concern for you?
- Do you have any allergies?
- Are there any drugs or supplements you are taking that might interact with Botox?
If you are considering Botox or fillers for the first time, there are a few additional things that you should keep in mind, such as:
Each procedure has its own unique benefits
Botox can be a good option for people looking to smooth out wrinkles and lines, while fillers can be a good option for people looking to add volume to their faces.
Consult with a professional
A medical professional can determine which procedure is best for you. Botox and fillers are safe and effective procedures, but each has its own unique benefits.
Both procedures are temporary
Botox results will last for three to six months, while fillers results will last for six to eighteen months. You will need to consider getting touch-ups every so often for either procedure.
There is some discomfort associated with both procedures
Fillers cause more discomfort than Botox injections, and there is a slight risk of swelling and bruising after the procedure. However, both procedures are relatively safe.
Botox vs. Fillers Cost
When it comes to Botox and fillers, different factors affect the cost of treatment. As mentioned, Botox lasts three to six months, while dermal fillers last anywhere from six to eighteen months, depending on the type of filler used. Botox also needs to be administered every three to four months, while fillers may only need to be done once a year.
The cost of Botox injections can range from $200 to $600 per treatment, while the cost of filler injections can range from $500 to $800 per treatment. Botox is generally cheaper than fillers, but the cost of repeat treatments must be considered as well.
Injection locations can also affect the cost of Botox and fillers. While most Botox injections are given in the forehead, fillers can be injected into a variety of areas on the face. The cheeks, lips, and nasolabial folds are all popular injection locations for fillers.
The cost of Botox vs. fillers will also depend on how much product is used. Botox typically requires a smaller amount of product than fillers, so the cost will be lower. To get a better estimate of the cost of Botox and filler treatments, check in with French Radiance Esthetics. Calling us to discuss your unique needs will give you an even more accurate estimate.
What Can I Expect During a Botox or Filler Treatment Session?
Based on your understanding of the treatment process, there are many expectations that you may have about Botox and fillers. Each procedure requires different injection locations to bring about the desired results. Fillers are often used on areas of volume loss, while Botox is typically injected into areas with fine lines and wrinkles. Botox injections may cause some discomfort, but it is usually minimal. Fillers can also be uncomfortable for the patient, depending on where they are injected.
The clinician will also consider the patient’s age, health history, and skin condition before treatment begins. If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, Botox and fillers are not recommended. If you are taking any medication or using topical retinoids, it’s best to avoid these procedures as well. Treatment sessions usually take about 30 minutes for both Botox and fillers. The entire process is relatively quick and pain-free.
After your procedure, it’s important to follow all post-care instructions. This will help to ensure that you have a safe and healthy recovery. Most people experience some minor swelling and bruising. This can be reduced with ice packs, avoiding alcohol, and staying hydrated.
Get a Free Consultation with French Radiance Esthetics
Life is too short not to look and feel your best. While we believe that everyone is beautiful in their own way, sometimes a little help is needed to restore that youthful look and give you the extra boost of confidence you are looking for. Leveraging the power of either Botox or fillers can do just that.
If you’re considering Botox or fillers, the team at French Radiance Esthetics can help you make the best decision for your individual needs. Connect with us online to book some time to chat more about your options and find out what works best for you.
Just like that, you can be on your way to a brand new you!
