Whether you’re an aesthetics newbie or have been getting aesthetic procedures done for years, you may be overwhelmed by the abundance of injectables options that are on the market lately. Botox, Dysport, Juvederm, Kybella, Hyaluronic Acid – it can be confusing at best, and intimidating at worst. Patients worry that they won’t know what to ask for, what will best suit their needs, and what will look most natural. This sometimes leads patients to asking for the wrong thing, or not coming into the office at all.
If this sounds familiar, today’s blog post is for you!
Neurotoxins vs. Dermal Fillers
There are two types of injections we’ll be talking about in this blog post – Neurotoxins and Dermal Fillers.
First thing’s first – it’s important to know that Botox is simply a brand name of one of the two types – the first, Neurotoxin. A Neurotoxin blocks the action of the particular nerves that are being targeted. For example, it can be injected into the tiny facial muscles to relax the muscle strain causing lines over time. Effects can last 3-6 months; there are currently four FDA-approved Neurotoxins available in the US for aesthetic injection.
Dermal Fillers, on the other hand, are used to smooth lines by filling them in beneath the skin’s surface. The most common substances used are Hyaluronic Acid (with brands like Restylane, Juvederm and Belotero) and calcium (with brands like Radiesse). Length of results vary widely depending on area of the face, metabolism and thickness of product used.
How do you know what’s right for you? There’s a golden rule aestheticians tend to use:
Lines of expression (e.g. frown lines, worry lines) need Neurotoxins, Lines at rest (like nasolabial folds, jowl lines) need Dermal Filler.
This infographic shows example areas of the face that are typically treated by Botox vs. Dermal Fillers, though we encourage you to discuss any questions during your consultation with your provider.
Can Both be Used Together?
Absolutely! In fact, a majority of our patients have appointments for some combination of aesthetic treatments, and a combination of Botox and Dermal Filler is one of the most popular. While each person and face is different, we’ll work with you to come up with a treatment plan that’ll have you looking and feeling your absolute best!
Possible Complications
We often get questions about possible complications. While all FDA-approved neurotoxins and dermal fillers are considered safe and effective, some patients may expect a risk of bruising and tenderness at the injection site.
Pregnant women and other people with some rare neurological conditions should not get Botox.
Dermal Fillers have the additional possible side effects of lumpiness and, rarely, vascular occlusion if improperly injected into a blood vessel. These can be prevented by choosing experienced and certified practitioners such as those at Sound Medical Weight Loss.
We also get this question frequently: what if I don’t love my results?
The great news is that, with all treatments, we focus on helping you look like the best version of YOU – not transforming you into someone you won’t recognize. Results are natural and beautiful.
Both Botox and Dermal Fillers are temporary, rather than permanent, treatments. In addition, certain fillers (especially those composed of hyaluronic acid) can often be partially or completely dissolved with an enzyme injection if needed.
Making an Appointment with Sound Medical Weight Loss
Ready to look like your best self for Fall? Give us a call or book an appointment online today. We’re running our biggest promotion of the year through September 30th, so don’t delay!
