What’s The Difference Between Botox and Dermal Fillers?
If you are experiencing thinning around the cheeks, lips and around the mouth, then a dermal filler would be fit for you. If you are wanting to get rid of those fine lines and wrinkles caused by facial expressions, then you should consider botox. What really is the difference between the two? We will go over this in more detail as these treatments are becoming more popular and you probably want to know if it’s worth getting.
Botox
Botox is a drug made from a toxin produced by botulinum. It can be deadly in large amounts because it can cause a life threatening type of food poisoning called botulism. Doctors use this in small amounts to treat the fine lines and wrinkles. A regulated amount of botox given has been used safely for decades.
Botox works by weakening or blocking certain muscles where the injection is. When this happens, the affected muscle is temporarily frozen which causes the wrinkles to soften or be removed. It can only work on wrinkles that are caused by muscle movement like expression lines. Botox will not work on fine lines and wrinkles caused by sagging or loss of plumpness in the face. It is also not permanent, so repeated treatments are necessary for continued effects. Botox can last up to 3 to 4 months.
Side Effects of Botox
Botox is relatively safe and FDA approved when performed by an experienced and licensed doctor. Though some side effects can still occur including:
- Pain, swelling or bruising at the injection site
- Headaches or flu-like symptoms
- Droopy eyelid or cockeyeed eyebrows
- Crooked smile or drooling
- Eye dryness or excessive tearing
- Dry mouth
- Nausea
- Trouble swallowing, speaking or breathing
- Blurry vision or vision problems
Do not rub or massage the treated areas for 24 hours. This may help prevent the toxin from spreading to a different area. You can return to your normal activities right after the procedure. The injections usually begin working 1 to 3 days after treatment. The average cost of Botox in Utah is between $230-$555.
Dermal Fillers
Dermal Fillers are designed to add volume and fullness to the surface of the skin. They can address a number of common concerns like smoothing of deep under-eye circles, lifting of cheekbones, volumization of the lips, smoothing of lip lines and rejuvenation of the hands. Some dermal fillers are naturally absorbed over time, but patients may need to repeat the injections after some time to maintain the desired effect.
Side Effects of Dermal Fillers
Dermal fillers are FDA approved and are considered safe but some side effects can still occur. A licensed professional or doctor should be the only one performing all your dermal filler procedures. The most common side effects include:
- Bruising
- Redness
- Swelling
- Pain
- Tenderness
- Itching
- Rashes
- Raised bumps in or under the skin
- Sores at injection sites
- allergic reactions
The average cost of getting a dermal filler in Utah is around $400-$850, depending on the injection site and type of dermal fillers used. Talk to your doctor about their dermal fillers and what is right for you.
Botox and dermal fillers are minimally invasive, but can still cause some risks. It’s always good to be aware of these risks and talk to your doctor about them before treatment. For more information on Botox and Dermal Fillers or to schedule an appointment, contact Intermountain Aesthetics MD Spa in Ogden, Utah today!
