Botox vs. Dermal Fillers

Conveniently located to serve the areas of San Diego, CA

Both Botox and dermal fillers can achieve a youthful look and eliminate wrinkles without surgical intervention, but when doing their research, patients may not be sure which option is best for them. This comprehensive guide aims to help patients learn more about these treatments, helping them make more informed and empowered decisions.

The team at Alexus Plastic Surgery has been helping patients enhance their inner beauty for years. Each of our doctors and nurses is an expert with years of experience and is knowledgeable in the most advanced techniques and treatments, fusing them with time-tested methods to provide stunning results.

To schedule your consultation and learn more about Botox and dermal fillers, please contact us online or call (888) 463-9532.

About Botox

Botox (BOTOX®) is an FDA-approved treatment designed to reduce the appearance and development of fine lines and wrinkles, restoring a smoother and more youthful-looking complexion. This injectable is a neuromodulator, meaning it blocks the transmission of acetylcholine, the neurotransmitter that facilitates facial contractions that contribute to the development of facial aging. (1) We also offer Dysport®, another neuromodulator that is similar to Botox. Dysport is thought to have a quicker onset time, allowing patients to notice results sooner. (2)

About Dermal Fillers

Dermal fillers are designed to provide volume to the face. We offer a wide range of dermal fillers, each offering unique benefits and natural-looking results.

Bellafill®

Bellafill is an injectable filler that reduces the appearance of wrinkles and creases and restores volume to various areas of the face. This treatment is composed of polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA), a collagen-based formula with suspended microspheres that help stimulate collagen synthesis. Bellafill is known for providing long-lasting effects, with results lasting for up to five years.

Sculptra®

Sculptra is an FDA-approved filler that stimulates collagen to boost volume. It is composed of poly-L-Lactic acid (PLLA). (3) Sculptra is often used to address deeper volume loss, restoring volume while smoothing out the skin.

JUVÉDERM®

Juvederm is a dermal filler that uses hyaluronic acid (HA) to add moisture and volume to the skin. This filler can be used to address wrinkles, creases, fine lines, and other signs of visible aging. (3)

Restylane®

Restylane is a collection of volumizing fillers that can reduce the appearance of facial aging. Restylane is HA-based and can be used to address various areas of the face, including:

  • Laugh lines
  • Nasolabial folds
  • Mouth and lip lines
  • Cheeks
  • Lips
  • Under-eye hollows

Each Restylane filler addresses a different area and is formulated differently for the best possible results.

RHA Fillers

Resilient Hyaluronic Acid (RHA) fillers are designed to minimize the appearance of creases and wrinkles and address facial hollowing. RHA fillers have fewer crosslinks, meaning the formula itself is more flexible, providing natural-looking enhancements that last longer in areas that experience more movement.

Benefits

Both dermal fillers and Botox offer numerous benefits to each patient, including:

  • Wrinkle Reduction: Our treatments are highly effective for reducing the appearance of facial creases, wrinkles, and other signs of aging
  • Non-Surgical Treatment: Both Botox and dermal fillers provide results without the need for surgical intervention.
  • Long-lasting Effects: Although durations can vary according to formula, patients can often enjoy the effects of their treatment for several months.
  • Little to No Recovery: Patients can resume normal activities immediately after their treatment, making it convenient for those leading busier lives.
  • Natural-Looking Results: When administered by a skilled professional, both Botox and dermal fillers achieve natural-looking enhancements.
  • Enhanced Confidence: Many patients report feeling more confident and satisfied with their overall appearance after receiving an injectable treatment.
  • Short Procedure Time: These injectables are often administered in less than 20 minutes.

Candidates

All candidates interested in injectables should be in good overall health and free from any allergies to the ingredients in the chosen formula. Patients should also maintain realistic expectations about their results. An injection specialist will determine each patient’s candidacy during a personal consultation.

Suitable Candidates for Botox

Suitable candidates for Botox include those interested in temporarily addressing wrinkles caused by repeated facial expressions or movements. Younger patients interested in preventative rejuvenation, casually known as “prejuvenation,” can also benefit from Botox injections. (1) Botox does not provide any volumizing effects.

Suitable Candidates for Dermal Fillers

Ideal candidates for dermal fillers are those seeking to temporarily address facial volume loss, fill wrinkles, or enhance their facial contours. Some dermal fillers add immediate volume by binding to water molecules within the skin, while others stimulate collagen production for volume that improves gradually.

Personal Consultation

During a personal consultation, one of our injection specialists will meet with you and provide personalized recommendations, each tailored to help you achieve your goals. They will ask a series of questions about medical history, concerns, and desired results, and evaluate the targeted areas. They will use this information to create a personalized treatment plan and recommend the most effective injectable for you.

To schedule your personal consultation, please contact us online or call (888) 463-9532.

Preparation

Preparing for injectable treatments is simple, as you will not have to plan for any time off work or extensive physical restrictions. However, your specialist may recommend that you:

  • Discontinue certain medications and supplements, especially those that contain blood-thinning properties, with approval from your doctor.
  • Avoid alcohol consumption and excessive sun exposure.
  • Modify your skincare routine to avoid harsh skincare products such as chemical peels, exfoliants, and retinoids.
  • Arrive at your appointment with a clean face without any skincare products or makeup.

Procedure

Upon your arrival, we will cleanse and sanitize your skin. Your injection specialist will carefully map out areas of the face that you wish to target before administering their chosen formula. For Botox, these areas will be the muscles responsible for repeated movements that contribute to the appearance of creases and wrinkles. Those receiving dermal fillers will receive injections in areas experiencing hollowing and volume loss, or areas they wish to enhance.

These injectables typically take less than 20 minutes to administer, making them convenient for even the busiest of patients.

Recovery

Immediately after treatment, you are free to return to your daily routine. Redness, bruising, or mild swelling may occur, but these effects typically fade quickly. You should avoid touching, massaging, scratching, or putting pressure on the treated areas, and avoid physical exercise or high-intensity activities for 24-48 hours.

Results

The results of Botox develop gradually, with noticeable differences typically occurring after about 3-5 days. The effects of Botox generally last between three to four months. Once results wear off, many patients choose to prolong their results with maintenance treatments.

Depending on the formula administered, patients who receive dermal fillers may notice their results immediately after their appointment. However, some dermal fillers, such as Bellafill and Sculptra, create more gradual results by stimulating collagen over time. The longevity of results will depend on the type of filler received, with results ranging from six months to several years.

Cost of Botox and Dermal Fillers in San Diego

Pricing will vary depending on the chosen injectable and the number of units administered. Your injection specialist will discuss the price of treatment during your consultation after establishing your injection plan.

To learn more about the cost of your Botox or dermal fillers, please contact us online or call (888) 463-9532.

FAQ

Which is better, Botox or dermal fillers?

The best treatment option is the one most suited to helping you achieve your goals. If you are looking to restore volume, dermal fillers may be more in line with your needs. If you would like to smooth wrinkles created by repetitive muscle movement, Botox is likely a better option. Attending a consultation with a specialist at our office can help you determine the most effective option for you.

What is the main difference between Botox and dermal fillers?

Botox is primarily used to reduce the appearance and development of facial wrinkles and creases by relaxing the muscles responsible for repeated contractions. Dermal fillers restore volume and enhance facial contours.

What areas can be treated with Botox and dermal fillers?

Botox can be used to address forehead lines, frown lines, and crow’s feet. Dermal fillers are often used to add volume to the cheeks, under-eyes, nasolabial folds, and temples.

Can Botox or dermal fillers be combined with other treatments?

Yes, both Botox and dermal fillers can be combined with other treatments. For more information, please discuss this option during your personal consultation.

Can I get Botox and dermal fillers at the same time?

Yes, your specialist can administer both neuromodulators and dermal fillers to the areas of your choosing.

References

  1. Padda IS, Tadi P. Botulinum Toxin. PubMed. Published November 6, 2023. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK557387/
  2. Field M, Splevins A, Picaut P, et al. AbobotulinumtoxinA (Dysport®), OnabotulinumtoxinA (Botox®), and IncobotulinumtoxinA (Xeomin®) Neurotoxin Content and Potential Implications for Duration of Response in Patients. Toxins. 2018;10(12):535. doi:https://doi.org/10.3390/toxins10120535
  3. Sánchez-Carpintero I, Candelas D, Ruiz-Rodríguez R. Dermal Fillers: Types, Indications, and Complications. Actas Dermo-Sifiliográficas (English Edition). 2010;101(5):381-393. doi:https://doi.org/10.1016/s1578-2190(10)70660-0