Botox® vs. Dermal Fillers – What Do I Need?

Nowadays the internet, social media, magazines talk about an array of aesthetic treatments that include IPL, laser therapy, mesotherapy, PRP, micro-needling, Botox® and dermal fillers. With all these on offer, it can be very overwhelming when deciding what treatment is best for you.

Here are a few facts about Botox® and Dermal Fillers to help you make an informed decision.

WHAT ARE THEY MADE UP OF?

• Botox® is the short name for botulinum toxin- it is called a toxin because in high quantities it can act as a neurotoxin. However, in modified tiny doses it can be used safely to help relax targeted muscle groups.
• Dermal fillers are most commonly made up of hyaluronic acid. This is your skin’s natural moisturiser and with time we produce decreasing amounts of this causing lines and wrinkles to appear.

WHAT CAN THEY BE USED TO TREAT?

• Botox® can be used to help reduce the appearance of dynamic lines and wrinkles, such as the lines otherwise known as crow’s feet around our eyes when we squint.
• Dermal fillers are more appropriate for static lines and folds, such as the nose to mouth lines and marionette lines that become more pronounced with time.

ONSET OF EFFECTS – WHEN WILL I BE ABLE TO SEE THE RESULTS?

• Botox® results usually kick in after 4-5 days and you will see the maximum effects at 2 weeks which is why your practitioner usually recommends a review 2 weeks after treatment especially if it is your first time.
• The effect of fillers is immediate and you can see the results on the day of your treatment. However, some redness and swelling is often common which usually subsides after a few days.

DURATION – HOW LONG DO THE EFFECTS LAST?

• Botox® tends to last on average between 3-4 months. Dermal fillers can last longer between 6-12 months. This, however, depends on the type of product used and the individual.
• Both Botox® and dermal fillers are reversible. You may have heard of permanent fillers but these in our opinion are a definite no go and are not deemed to be safe!

SIDE EFFECTS

• Common side effects of both treatments are redness, bruising and swelling at the site of treatment. This often depends on the individual person and also the technique of your practitioner!
• Less common but more serious complications can include a compromised blood vessel when using dermal fillers. As a team of doctors and dentists we carry the dermal filler reversal drug called hyalase in case it is ever needed in an emergency.

Whatever procedure you opt for it is SO important to always choose to have it done safely by a qualified aesthetic practitioner! Here at UNNDOO, we are a doctor and dentist only team who have undergone comprehensive training in cosmetic procedures including Botox® and dermal fillers.

If you have any further queries for us, please feel free to email us (medical@unndoo.com) or WhatsApp us on 07585 237 435.

Blog Post by Dr Subhangi Ratneswaren

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