BOTOX® Cosmetic vs. Dermal Fillers: Which Is Right for You?
- Posted on: May 15 2022
Although BOTOX® Cosmetic is one of the most well-known treatments in the cosmetic world, it’s not the only name in the wrinkle prevention industry. Another popular option for wrinkle reduction is dermal fillers. Each choice uses a distinct method with different strengths and benefits, but it can be difficult to decide which one is right for you.
As a board-certified plastic surgeon, Dr. David Altamira is familiar with the wide array of choices available for patients looking to treat wrinkles, including both BOTOX® Cosmetic and dermal fillers. This article will explain the benefits and drawbacks of each option.
BOTOX® Cosmetic: Benefits and Drawbacks
BOTOX® Cosmetic treatment aims to cut off wrinkles at the source by blocking the nerve impulses that, as they contract face muscles, cause wrinkles to appear. BOTOX® Cosmetic treatments give patients highly purified versions of botulinum toxin A, which paralyzes the facial muscles for a short period, and reduces wrinkles and furrows on the face.
One of the strengths of BOTOX® Cosmetic is that it’s both effective and low-maintenance. In addition to working wonders on wrinkles, BOTOX® Cosmetic procedures don’t require anesthetic (though doctors may prescribe ice or creams to soothe any soreness). BOTOX® Cosmetic is best for addressing “dynamic wrinkles,” the wrinkles that appear around the forehead and mouth from repeated actions like smiling and furrowing the brow.
A downside of BOTOX® Cosmetic is that it’s temporary, lasting up to four months. After this point, patients will require additional treatments to extend their wrinkle treatment. Potential side effects of BOTOX® Cosmetic include pain, swelling, redness, bruising, and infection.
Dermal Fillers: Benefits and Drawbacks
Although dermal fillers are also low-maintenance injections, they aim to treat different wrinkles than BOTOX® Cosmetic. We offer hyaluronic acid dermal fillers to treat “static wrinkles” near the mouth and eyes, filling in places where young skin has begun to sag. Some of these fillers can also be used to augment the lips.
Like BOTOX® Cosmetic, dermal fillers only work temporarily, though they do work longer — between a few months or years depending on the type utilized.
Posted in: Botox
