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What Is the Difference Between Botox® and Dermal Fillers?

Botox® and dermal fillers have become invaluable tools in many people’s anti-aging arsenals.

These non-surgical treatments are a swift and painless route to rejuvenation, with no downtime or disruptions to your daily routine. They deliver subtle, natural-looking results that leave you looking refreshed without anyone guessing you have had “work done.”

Dr. Stephanie Teotia and her compassionate, all-female staff have published this guide for anyone who wants to explore their options for minimally invasive, in-office cosmetic treatments.

How Does Botox® Work?

Botox® owes its worldwide fame to its non-invasive and multipurpose nature. Derived from a meticulously purified form of botulinum toxin, Botox® resolves several concerns. Beyond its cosmetic applications, it eases migraines, prevents involuntary muscle movements, and tackles excessive sweating. However, its debut as an FDA-approved wrinkle treatment in 2002 was a milestone that elevated Botox® into a household name. Injecting this product into specific facial muscles relaxes wrinkles and fine lines, such as crow’s feet and brow furrows.

Unlike fillers that plump the skin and promote collagen production, Botox® temporarily paralyzes facial muscles, softening repetitive movements like frowning and allowing you to express yourself without deepening those telltale lines. These effects will last three to six months before starting to wear off, but you can maintain them with periodic touch-up treatments.

The Benefits of Dermal Fillers 

Dermal fillers help refresh your appearance by minimizing fine lines and wrinkles. These versatile products also restore lost volume in areas affected by the aging process, like the cheeks, lips, and tear troughs.

Dr. Teotia offers three proven product lines for restoring your skin’s vitality and vibrancy.

  • Juvéderm®: The Juvéderm® family includes Voluma XC, Vollure, Volbella, and Ultra Plus XC. These come in slightly variable consistencies that make them ideal for targeting different areas of your face. Their active ingredient is hyaluronic acid, a naturally occurring substance that attracts and retains moisture for a smooth, youthful complexion.
  • Sculptra®: Sculptra® consists of a synthetic biocompatible material called poly-L-lactic acid. A series of injection appointments encourages your body to absorb this acid and gradually rebuild lost collagen.
  • Restylane®: Restylane’s smooth gel formula can correct moderate to pronounced wrinkles like nasolabial folds and marionette lines. This product stimulates collagen and elastin production for smooth, resilient skin.

While your body will eventually metabolize fillers, many of our patients enjoy their results for up to a year. You can prolong these by using high-quality moisturizer, exfoliation, and sunscreen, avoiding excess stress, and staying hydrated.

Am I a Good Candidate?

You may be an excellent candidate for injectables if you have less advanced signs of aging and are not yet ready or willing to consider surgeries like a facelift or eyelid lift. These FDA-approved treatments are suitable for all skin types, offering reliable outcomes with minimal discomfort and downtime.

Patients with busy schedules can make their appointment to receive filler or Botox® injections on their lunch break and return to work immediately afterward. You can expect to see a visible improvement soon after your comfortable treatment—most fillers take effect almost immediately, restoring lost volume and softening wrinkles. Meanwhile, you should see Botox® results within approximately five days.

The best filler and neuromodulator candidates are in good overall health and have realistic expectations. They are looking for a safer alternative that bypasses potential surgical risks like anesthesia complications, scarring, and longer recovery times.

Your Anti-Aging Partner

Though injectable treatments are quick, convenient, and non-surgical, you should still seek an experienced, board-certified plastic surgeon who can safely and effectively provide outstanding results. At your confidential consultation, Dr. Teotia will evaluate your skin elasticity and unique facial anatomy to recommend the best combination of products for you. She understands the nuances of injectable products and minimizes the possible unwanted effects that may arise when working with an unqualified provider, such as asymmetry or overfilling.

As a leading Dallas plastic surgeon, Dr. Teotia works to establish a genuine rapport with all her patients. She will take time to educate you about how Botox® and fillers work and what they can do to resolve your anti-aging concerns. Contact us today to start your partnership with us.