Both dermal fillers and Botox are used as longer-lasting wrinkle correction methods. The likes of Juvederm, Radiesse, and Bellafill, which are all dermal fillers, are popular among men and women alike, as is the case with Botox. But there are also differences in their uses and efficacy, as discussed below.
Applications
Dermal fillers are used primarily in the treatment of smile lines and secondarily in plumping up the cheeks and lips. These may also be used in the treatment of wrinkles on the hands and in the improvement of scars. These are also injectable and comes in several forms with different efficacy duration, such as:
- calcium hydroxylapatite, a gel solution with results lasting for 18 months
- hyaluronic acid, a solution that lasts for 6-12 months before being dissolved in the body
- poly-L-lactic acid, a synthetic material with results lasting for about two years
- polymethylmethacrylate beads, a manmade material that provides permanent results
Botox, a muscle relaxant made from bacteria and originally used in the treatment of neurological disorders, is used in the treatment of dynamic wrinkles. Since these wrinkles typically occur around the mouth, eyes and between the eyebrows, these are common sites for Botox injections. Botox works by relaxing the muscles near the wrinkles and, thus, reduce their appearance.
Effectiveness
Dermal fillers are effective in the reduction of wrinkles and their results last longer than Botox injections overall. But your actual results will vary depending on the treatment site, the number of injections, and your lifestyle habits. You will also require maintenance treatments since dermal fillers wear off (i.e., absorbed by the body).
The results of Botox injections may not last as long as those of dermal fillers but these produce results for majority of patients. The noticeable effects are seen within a week after treatment, too, while its side effects are minimal; most of them are also resolved without treatment and within a short time.
Dermal fillers and Botox come with the risk of side effects and it’s typical of most facial rejuvenation procedures. In fact, your doctor will ask questions about your medical history, lifestyle habits, and other pre-screening queries to determine the risks in your case. You may, for example, not be a hood candidate for either procedures if you have difficulty swallowing.
Which one is the best for you? Your doctor will discuss the pros and cons of Botox and dermal filler and then determine your suitability for either one. You won’t likely get both treatments at once due to contraindications.