Botox® and dermal fillers are minimally-invasive cosmetic treatments, given through injections, to combat volume loss and maintain a youthful appearance. Both have increased in popularity over the years, as each are effective at rectifying the signs of aging. They are often considered synonymous, but they actually tackle different specific problems.
What Is Botox®?
The primary objective of Botox® (botulinum toxin) is to treat and prevent wrinkles. Botox® contains purified bacteria that relaxes muscles, preventing them from contracting, which can help minimize the appearance of lines and wrinkles caused by facial expressions.
What Results Can I Expect?
While you may see results immediately following the first treatment, or within the first few days, the maximum effect may occur 10 and 14 days later. Following treatment, patients are able to return to their normal daily activities with no downtime or aftercare. Patients can enjoy lasting effects for up to three months.
What Are Dermal Fillers?
Dermal fillers, also known as facial fillers, are designed to be injected into facial folds, areas of volume loss, and large wrinkles. A variety of filler types are available and each addresses different cosmetic issues. They may enhance or fill in shallow areas on the face, soften wrinkles, or plump up thinning lips, depending on what filler is determined to be right for you. In addition to treating existing wrinkles and replacing volume loss, dermal fillers can be used for prevention in younger patients.
What Results Can I Expect?
Results can vary depending on which dermal fillers are used and the individual patient. Dermal fillers can last from a few months to a few years. Hyaluronic acid fillers are naturally broken down by the body after about 6 months – 24 months. It may be recommended to get touch-ups once or twice a year to maintain the desired look.
Key Differences
Botox® relaxes the muscles to stop creases and wrinkles caused by facial expressions. These wrinkles are typically found in the upper face – forehead, crows feet, eyebrows. Botox® is not recommended for women who are pregnant or breastfeeding. Botox® is not a permanent treatment and repeated treatments are necessary for continued effect. The muscle-relaxing effect lasts for 3 to 4 months for most people.
Dermal fillers use hyaluronic acid and other substances to fill in areas that have lost volume and smoothness. They are designed to plump up thinning lips, fill in or soften the look of recessed scars, and soften static wrinkles around the mouth and along the cheeks. Often called soft tissue fillers, the results of fillers can last from six months to two years depending on which treatment you choose.
What’s Right for Me?
Botox® and dermal fillers are different formulas designed for different uses. They can be combined though into one treatment. While Botox® can be used to correct the lines between the eyes, a filler can be used to correct the smile lines around the mouth.
Dr. Karolak offers Botox® as well as various dermal filler options to fit your individual needs. Find out what treatment option is best for you, and discuss your expectations or concerns, by scheduling an in-person consultation with Dr. Karolak.
I can’t say enough on how much I love and appreciate Dr. karolak his bedside manner and his creativity is amazing . Some doctors don’t have an eye for what really fits someone’s face I go to him for Botox I know he’s great at all injections and Facial surgeries, so many people think that you can go to any Doctor for Botox but that is false I’ve been to so many plastic surgeons top of the line and there was always a problem, never with Dr. Karolack he’s the best !! I leave feeling confident in what he did never any concerns and never any problems thank you so much, much love.
Take the Next Step
Ready to learn more about how Botox® & Dermal Fillers can help you look and feel your best? Schedule an in-person consultation at Karolak Facial Plastic Surgeon in Wall, Township, NJ by calling (732) 955-9500. Or, simply fill out the form on this page. We look forward to working with you!
*Individual Results may vary.