What Is the Difference Between Botox® and Fillers?

Botox® and dermal fillers are popular cosmetic treatments. Both are given through injections, and both are minimally invasive (they do not involve surgery). But that is where the similarities end.

About Botox®

Botox® contains purified bacteria that freeze muscles, thereby helping to minimize the appearance of lines and wrinkles caused by facial expressions. It has been used safely for decades and it is a very popular treatment.

Botox® works by blocking nerve signals in the muscles where it is injected. The affected muscle is temporarily paralyzed or frozen, which results in the softening, reduction or even removal of certain wrinkles.

Botox® only works on wrinkles that are caused by muscle movement. These wrinkles are called dynamic wrinkles or expression lines. The most common place to use Botox® is in the upper face on the lines between the eyebrows, the horizontal lines on the forehead, and on the crow’s feet around the eyes. These lines are caused by smiling, squinting, frowning and other common facial expressions. Botox® will not work on lines and wrinkles caused by sagging or loss of volume in the face. These lines are known as static wrinkles and are usually found in the cheeks, neck and jowls.

The effects of Botox® are temporary. They normally last about 3 to 4 months, though some patients experience results that last up to 6 months. To maintain the results, you must continue with the Botox® injections.

About Dermal Fillers

Dermal fillers contain hyaluronic acid and other ingredients that add volume and fullness to areas that have thinned due to aging. The most common area for this to occur is in the cheeks, lips and around the mouth.

There are many different kinds of fillers designed to do different things. Some fillers will last 6 months while others will last up to 2 years or more. Dermal fillers can treat the following conditions:

• Plump up thinning lips
• Fill in shallow areas on the face
• Reduce or remove wrinkles and dark shadows under the eye
• Fill in or soften the look of recessed scars
• Fill in or soften static wrinkles on the lower face

To learn more about Botox® and dermal fillers, contact us for more information or to schedule a consultation. Port City Plastic Surgery serves Charleston, Daniel Island, Mount Pleasant and Summerville, South Carolina from two locations in Charleston and Daniel Island.