An injectable is a popular cosmetic treatment used to improve the appearance of wrinkles, fine lines, and volume loss. Both dermal fillers and Botox treatments reduce the signs of aging in the face; however, there are some significant differences between them that should be considered when deciding which treatment is right for you.
Our skin loses both elasticity and volume as we age, resulting in wrinkles and fine lines. These changes in the face can seem to sneak up on you; one day, you’re looking good for your age, and the next you can feel like you’ve aged five years. This can be disheartening, but luckily there are treatments available to help reverse the signs of aging.
Dr. Amber L. Allen believes that everyone has the right to look their best and feel confident in their own skin. That’s why Allen Aesthetic Surgery offers a variety of treatments, including dermal fillers and Botox, so you can restore your natural radiance. Both treatments are fast and effective, so let’s take a look at the differences.
Inject youthful beauty back into your life, by booking an appointment with Dr. Allen for the treatment that suits your needs. Call (919) 676-5052 or fill out this form to get in touch with us.
Contents
How Skin Ages
- Collagen Depletion – As we age, our skin begins to lose its elasticity due to decreased collagen and elastin production, leading to wrinkles. Sun exposure, smoking, and other lifestyle habits can also contribute to the development of wrinkles.
- Volume Loss – Loss of volume in the face can contribute to sagging skin and a hollowed appearance. This occurs as fat pads beneath the skin begin to diminish, leading to a loss of facial fullness and youthful contours.
- Static Wrinkles – These wrinkles are present even when the face is at rest. They are caused by the breakdown of the skin’s natural collagen and elastin.
- Dynamic Wrinkles – Dynamic wrinkles are caused by movements like frowning or smiling. They are made worse by repetitive muscle contractions in facial movement.
What are Dermal Fillers?
A youthful face is associated with plump, hydrated, and smooth skin. Dermal fillers replace the volume loss associated with aging in areas of the face such as cheeks, temples, lips, and jawline. Different kinds of fillers contain various active ingredients, such as hyaluronic acid (HA), calcium hydroxyapatite, polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA), and other substances that work with the body to increase the production of collagen.
Dermal fillers are injected beneath the skin to “fill in” lost volume, wrinkles, folds, and fine lines, resulting in smoother and more hydrated skin that looks more youthful. Fillers are not permanent, but the treatment results can last several months, even over a year, depending on individual circumstances.
Hyaluronic Acid Fillers
HA fillers like Restylane and Juvéderm are among the most popular injection treatments available. [1] They add temporary volume and fullness to the skin because hyaluronic acid attracts and binds to the water molecules naturally present in the skin, thereby creating a plumping effect. HA occurs naturally in our bodies, so these fillers are considered very safe and are even reversible. [2] After a certain amount of time, depending on the formulation, the filler will safely be broken down and resorbed by the body.
PMMA Fillers
Bellafill stands out among other dermal fillers due to its unique composition. It contains PMMA (polymethyl methacrylate) microspheres, which are suspended in a collagen gel. These microspheres act as a scaffold, stimulating the body’s own collagen production. Over time, the collagen gel is naturally absorbed by the body while the microspheres remain in place, providing ongoing support and volume.
What is Botox?
Botox is a neuromodulator that smooths the wrinkles created during movement. These injections can temporarily improve the appearance of horizontal forehead lines, between the eyebrows (glabellar lines), and crow’s feet. Botox works to prevent dynamic wrinkles from forming and keeps existing lines and wrinkles from becoming more pronounced.
Unlike dermal fillers, which replace volume and treat static wrinkles, Botox affects the muscles and nerves in the treatment area. It works by temporarily blocking the release of acetylcholine, a neurotransmitter that transmits nerve signals to the muscles responsible for facial movement.
When injected into specific areas, Botox interrupts this signal transmission, causing the targeted muscles to relax and preventing them from contracting forcefully. As a result, the overlying skin remains smooth and unwrinkled, giving a rejuvenated and refreshed appearance.
Personal Consultation
During your consultation with Dr. Allen, you will have the chance to ask questions about your skin, your skin’s health, and how you can see your desired results. Her goal is to help you attain your ideal face, so she must understand what that looks like. Depending on your skin type and goals, she may recommend a combination of treatments, including Botox and dermal fillers. She may also recommend surgical procedures to help you maintain your results and enhance them for a longer-term solution.
Dr. Allen is passionate about helping her clients look and feel their best. She knows this isn’t always easy, so she ensures every client has a personalized, safe, and comfortable experience.
Ready to get started? Call us at (919) 676-5052 or fill out our contact form, and we will be happy to assist you. We look forward to helping you reach your beauty goals!
Once a treatment plan is established, Dr. Allen will review the details of your plan with you. She will discuss expected outcomes and answer any questions you may have about the treatment or recovery process. She is available to help you throughout your entire journey and will be there to answer any questions or address any concerns you have along the way.
Which Treatment is Right for Me?
Dermal fillers are designed to increase facial volume and restore youthful plumpness. They are also ideal for reducing the appearance of static signs of aging in the mid and lower face such as nasolabial folds and marionette lines, and to volumize the lips. In contrast, Botox is extremely effective in the reduction of dynamic wrinkles in the upper face. Ultimately, whether you choose dermal fillers, Botox, or a combination of injectables will depend on your own unique needs.
Recovery Time After Injectables
The recovery time after fillers or Botox treatments can vary depending on the procedure type, the number of injection sites, and the specific areas of the face treated. Generally, most people can expect to have no visible side effects from the treatment within a few days. However, in some cases, it may take up to two weeks for any swelling or bruising to subside completely. Depending on the area treated, you may need to avoid certain activities and products for a few days after treatment to avoid further irritation or swelling. Dr. Allen will discuss your recovery time with you before treatment.
It’s important to follow all instructions, which may include:
- Avoiding exercise or strenuous activity after botox for 4 hours or 48 hours for fillers
- Avoiding excessive heat
- Using ice packs to reduce swelling for fillers
- Avoiding touching the treated area
- Stopping any blood-thinning medications prior to injections
- Avoiding sleeping on your face and keep your head slightly elevated for 2 nights
We will also give you instructions on when it is safe to resume regular activities. Following these instructions can help you have a quick and successful recovery.
How Much Do Fillers and Botox Cost in Raleigh?
The cost of fillers and Botox treatments in Raleigh can vary depending on the number of injection areas, and the type of injectable you need. We will calculate the estimated cost of your treatment after your initial consultation.
Injectable treatments are generally more affordable than other cosmetic treatments, and results can be long-lasting.
If you have questions about fillers and Botox treatments or want to learn more about the cost of these treatments at Allen Aesthetic Surgery, please do not hesitate to reach out. Dr. Allen is committed to providing her clients with the best care possible, including making sure you feel comfortable and informed before starting treatments. Book your consultation by calling (919) 676-5052 and start exploring the possibilities of fillers and Botox treatments!
Find out more about aesthetic procedures at Allen Aesthetic Surgery by reading our blog.
FAQ
How many injection sessions will I need?
The number of injection sessions you will need depends on the type, the severity of your wrinkles, and your desired outcome. During your consultation, your provider will assess your skin and provide a treatment plan that works best for you. In general, most patients require a few injection sessions to achieve their desired results, though the exact number and frequency of sessions will depend on your individual needs.
When will I see results from injectables?
It is important to remember that results from fillers and Botox can take up to two weeks to take effect, and you may require additional treatments for optimal results.
References
- Brandt FS, Cazzaniga A. Hyaluronic acid gel fillers in the management of facial aging. Clinical Interventions in Aging. 2008;3(1):153-159. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2544360/
- Juhász MLW, Levin MK, Marmur ES. The Kinetics of Reversible Hyaluronic Acid Filler Injection Treated With Hyaluronidase. Dermatologic Surgery. 2017;43(6):841-847. doi:10.1097/dss.0000000000001084
- Dayan S, Maas CS, Grimes PE, et al. Safety and Effectiveness of VYC-17.5L for Long-Term Correction of Nasolabial Folds. Aesthetic Surgery Journal. 2019;40(7):767-777. doi:10.1093/asj/sjz200