Many women and men are interested in facial rejuvenation that doesn’t require surgery or anesthesia. The use of neuromodulators like Botox and Dysport and injectable fillers have, therefore, increased in popularity. One may wonder which treatment is right for them. It all depends on what one’s objectives are.  

What is Botox and what does it do?  

First, Botox is the brand name for an injectable neuromodulator that is used to relax facial muscles that cause wrinkles. Other popular brands include Dysport, Xeomin, and Juveau. When injected into a muscle,  these neuromodulators temporarily paralyze the targeted muscle which then prevents it from contracting and causing wrinkles. Common target areas include the forehead to prevent the horizontal lines, the vertical lines (11 lines) between the brows, and the crow’s feet at the outer corner of the eyes. The results typically last 3-4 months and then the neuromodulator injection needs to be repeated.  Without reinjections, the muscle action gradually returns. Patients might notice, however, that the wrinkles seem less pronounced because the muscles become weaker over time with repeated injections.  The results of neuromodulators usually begin to be seen within 2-3 days after injection, but it might take up to 2 weeks to see the full results. Therefore, patients do not see their results when they leave their plastic surgeon’s office.

What are fillers and what are they used for? 

Soft tissue fillers usually last 6 months to 1 year and are used to add volume to the face. Hyaluronic acid fillers, like Juvaderm and Restylane, are the most common ones used. Common areas that are treated are the cheeks, nasolabial folds, chin, marionette lines, and lips. The nice thing about fillers is that the results are immediate. Patients see the change in their facial lines when they leave the physician’s office.  

To learn more about each treatment, please visit our website or call our office for a consultation (239-939-5233).