If you want to get rid of wrinkles on your face and wish for a quick fix, there are two main options to consider, i.e., dermal fillers and Botox. To help you choose the best option, we've compared the differences between Botox and dermal fillers regarding definition, treatment area, effectiveness, side effects, cost and availability. Let's get started.
1. Differences by Definition
Botox (botulinum neurotoxin) is a muscle relaxer produced by a toxin and commonly used to relax muscles that are creating lines. Dermal fillers are mainly hyaluronic acid; this is something your body already produces that’s meant to plump in and hydrate your skin. So, it fills and adds volume. There are several types of fillers used other than hyaluronic acid, such as radiesse, a calcium hydroxylapatite, which is a bio stimulator filler which produces collagen. Another bio stimulator filler is a poly lactic acid, also known as sculptura, and then there’s PMMA, for example, Bella fill.
2. Differences by Treatment Area
Botox and dermal fillers can also be differentiated by where each treatment targets. Botox is specifically for getting rid of wrinkles that are created by a movement that eventually creates demarcation in the skin. When we were trying to fill or add volume, such as or specifically for smile lines, a.k.a nasal labial folds, we would use dermal filler. If we are trying to add volume in the cheeks, dermal filler or a more popular treatment like lip filler to add volume.
3. Differences by Effectiveness
Both treatments are considered great depending on what our concerns are. However, the results vary. Botox injections offer noticeable results within several days (mostly a week); however, the final result is in two weeks, and full effects last for three to four months. On the other hand, dermal fillers are instant gratification; however, they get better with time and also last longer. However, results will differ based on the type of filler used.
4. Differences by Side Effects
Botox and dermal fillers come with side effects like all other medical procedures. Most side effects come from the needle stick injury; typically, bruising is a risk. People generally catastrophize. Botox injections can come with side effects such as bruises (on the injection site) and headaches rarely. As always, these side effects are possible and small risks; however, certain medications and vitamins can heighten the risk, as well as for females if they are beginning or finishing a cycle. They can be reduced by avoiding blood thinners some days before injections to prevent bruising.
It also helps to know who shouldn't go for Botox injections, i.e., pregnant women, nursing mothers, or those with multiple sclerosis and other neuromuscular diseases.
Dermal fillers have more possible risks. However, serious side effects are rare. Moderate ones last for a maximum of fourteen days. Generally, you can avoid serious side effects by ensuring you receive treatment from reputable practitioners. Also, the filler used should be FDA-approved. Possible side effects of dermal fillers include bruising, redness, and swelling.
5. Differences by Cost and Availability
Both treatments are available through specialists, with Botox being the more affordable option at approximately $200-600 per session, based on factors such as the strength of muscle of units used. Dermal fillers start at approximately $600-650 for hyaluronic acid filler. The cost keeps rising based on the cost of the filler, with collagen being the more costly (approximately $1000-3000). Cost can also vary based on the specialist you visit and how much product is used.
Summary
Consider a treatment option that best suits you, i.e., the area you want to be treated, the budget you can spend, and a practitioner you feel most comfortable with. The importance of talking to an expert before seeking treatment can't be overemphasized when assessing risk and effectiveness, and you’re comfortable and moving forward.
Searching for the best place to have dermal fillers or Botox injections in the greater Toronto area? Consider Re-Juvenation, a renowned professional cosmetic injectables clinic with the highest cosmetic injection standards.