Botulinum toxins type A (Botox) and dermal fillers are two common treatments used for medical and aesthetic purposes. Though they have two unique purposes, they can easily be confused with one another if you're unfamiliar with them.
Charis Nunez, APRN, a nurse practitioner at AdventHealth Medical Group Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery at Innovation Tower, is here to break down the differences between Botox and dermal fillers to help you clearly understand each treatment.
What Is Botox?
Botox is a neurotoxin produced by the bacterium Clostridium botulinum. It's used as a prescription medication injected into the muscles in small doses to treat a variety of health conditions. "Botox works by temporarily paralyzing the muscles in which it is being injected by blocking nerve signals, causing the muscles to relax," shares Charis.
Medical professionals use Botox to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles and treat many conditions, including:
- Chronic migraines: Botox can help prevent migraines in adults who experience 15 or more headaches each month.
- Hyperhidrosis (excessive sweating): Treatment is available to help with excess sweating of the underarms, palms of your hands and soles of your feet.
- Muscle spasms: Botox can block nerve signals sent to the muscle, preventing the muscle from contracting.
- Overactive bladder: Botox can help treat urinary incontinence by reducing episode frequency.
- Strabismus (crossed eyes): Botox can help relax the muscles responsible for lateral eye movement and relieve crossed eyes.
"Botox is highly effective in the reduction of dynamic wrinkles, specifically those caused by frequent muscle movements such as frown lines and the lines around the eyes," shares Charis.
What Are Dermal Fillers?
Dermal fillers are injectable gel-like fillers that can be used in several medical and aesthetic treatments.
Dermal fillers can correct facial deformities, enhance volume in areas that have lost fat, assist in reconstructing facial structures after traumas and help with existing scarring.
Cosmetic dermal filler treatments include:
- Aging treatments for your hands
- Nonsurgical rhinoplasty (reshaping the bridge of the nose)
- Restoring fullness and volume to the lips, cheekbones, temples or facial wrinkles
"Dermal fillers are effective in addressing volume loss and deep fine lines. Fillers are versatile and are becoming the most popular choice for those seeking nonsurgical facial rejuvenation," Charis explains.
Treatment Details
Before beginning Botox or dermal filler treatment, consult a qualified medical provider to ensure you're a good candidate. Your provider will need to know any current medical conditions you're experiencing that could cause potential complications.
"We recommend abstaining from blood-thinning medications such as ibuprofen or aspirin for one week before your procedure to reduce your risk of bleeding and bruising," Charis shares. "It's also advised to avoid treatment if you have active skin infections like acne or eczema."
Botox Treatment
Botox's effects are typically noticed one to two weeks after the injection, with some brands taking effect in as few as 48 hours.
You can typically return to regular activities less than 24 hours after a Botox procedure. Maintenance treatments are usually recommended every three to six months or when full movement of your affected muscle has returned.
Dermal Fillers Treatment
Dermal fillers begin to take effect almost instantly by filling in volume deficits and wrinkles. However, it may take a couple of days for the swelling and redness to go down before you can see the actual results.
The healing process for dermal fillers will vary depending on the following:
- The area treated
- The number of syringes used
- The type of filler used
On average, swelling, redness and bruising will last two to 10 days. Depending on the type of filler and the area treated, your provider may recommend follow-up treatments within six months and two years.
Potential Risks and Side Effects
As with any medical procedure, learning the associated risks is important before you begin treatment.
Botox Risks
Potential risks and side effects of Botox injections can include:
- Allergic reactions
- Bruising
- Headache
- Migration of the medication, leading to treatment of an undesired muscle
- Swelling or redness at the injection site
If you receive Botox injections in your neck and experience difficulty swallowing or breathing, inform your health care provider right away or call 911 in an emergency.
Dermal Filler Risks
Common side effects of dermal fillers may include:
- Bruising and redness at the injection site
- Itching
- Lumps
- Swelling
- Temporary numbness or tingling
More serious risks can include vascular complications if the filler is injected into a blood vessel, allergic reactions, infection or granulomas.
"It's crucial for individuals to choose a licensed professional who is specialized in these procedures," shares Charis. "It's important to understand the capabilities of these products while having realistic expectations and knowing that these treatments are not permanent and often require maintenance."
Caring for Your Whole Health
Your whole health is our highest priority. If you'd like to learn more about nonsurgical treatments such as Botox or dermal fillers, our experts are ready to answer your questions. Learn more about our services and request an appointment with one of our specialists today.
