Should I get Botox or Dermal Fillers?

Keeping yourself looking youthful can make you feel great about yourself. Botox and dermal fillers are popular options to keep wrinkles and lines at bay. Commonly clubbed together as ‘injectables’, Botox and dermal fillers actually work differently to combat signs of ageing on different parts of the face. Facial injections might be the right solution for those men and women in and around the Edmonton area seeking an anti-aging solution without invasive surgery. If you’re wondering which treatment is right for you, read on to learn about the main differences between Botox and dermal fillers.

What is Botox and what is it used for?

Botox® is a brand name for a particular type of Botulinum Neurotoxin. It works by blocking or temporarily paralyzing nerve signals that cause specific muscles to contract. Basically, it freezes the muscles that expand and contract during different facial expressions like frowning or smiling to form wrinkles.

• Frown lines on the forehead
• Between the eyebrows
• Crow’s feet
• Near the lips

Doctors deliver minute amounts of Botox® into the muscles in these areas using tiny needles. The Botox® is delivered at fairly shallow depths. Depending on the severity of your wrinkles, it can take up to two weeks for muscles to relax and see the full effects of Botox®. Many young adults in their 20s also use Botox® to prevent wrinkles from forming as they grow older.

What are dermal fillers and what do they do?

Dermal or facial fillers contain hyaluronic acid which is a naturally occurring polysaccharide (a chain of sugar molecules) which helps your skin look healthy and plump by retaining water. Hyaluronic acid also plays a key role in our body’s ability to produce collagen – the protein that provides structure and suppleness to the skin. Our skin tends to lose its ability to form hyaluronic acid as we age, making skin sag in areas like the cheeks, neck, under the eyes, and jawlines. Juvederm® is a well-known facial filler that contains hyaluronic acid Other dermal fillers, like Radiesse®, contain calcium-based microspheres to help stimulate the production of collagen in the skin. Your doctor will be able to recommend the appropriate dermal filler for you.

Dermal fillers are typically used to:

• Reduce the appearance of wrinkles
• Restore volume in your cheeks and chin
• Enhance your lips and cheeks
• Contour your jaw line and nose
• Reduce dark circles and fill hollows under the eye

Injections using fillers typically penetrate the skin much deeper than those for Botox®. However, your doctor will accompany them with a mild anaesthetic to prevent any discomfort.

Botox® or facial fillers, which do I choose?

Botox® and facial fillers both perform different functions. Botox® works to reduce wrinkles in areas where muscles crease during facial expressions while dermal fillers are great for areas that need plumping and filling. Many individuals choose to have both treatments carried out to improve the overall appearance of their skin. Ultimately, the treatment you choose needs to align with your aesthetic goals.

How long do the effects of Botox® and dermal fillers last?

Although effects can be highly individual, the effects of Botox® usually last between three to six months while those of dermal fillers can last from five to 24 months depending on the thickness of the product used. Both procedures are minimally invasive ways to firm and plump your skin for a youthful appearance. The risks are minimal and can include mild bruising. However, a reputed doctor will walk you through them during your consultation. Dr. Poon has over 18 years of experience in various cosmetic procedures, including cosmetic injectables, and has treated over 50,000 patients. He personally performs all Botox® and dermal filler injections at New Image Cosmetic in Edmonton so you know you are in safe hands. Every treatment is tailored to you and your needs. Book your consultation with us today!