As you reflect on family photos from the holidays, you may be surprised to see that the signs of aging are showing where they haven’t before – crow’s feet at the corners of your eyes, frown lines between your brows, and deep folds around your mouth. You look years older than you feel, which is no way to start the New Year.

Botox® and dermal fillers provide a non-invasive, effective way to smooth the lines, wrinkles and folds that have appeared without your permission, as well as restore volume and fullness to your skin for a more youthful appearance. At San Diego Cosmetic Laser, we often have patients ask us about differences between Botox® and dermal fillers, as well as what can be expected from each procedure. We’ve listed the most frequently asked questions below to help you decide which treatment is right for you.

What Is The Difference Between Botox® And Dermal Fillers?

Though both treatments work to smooth wrinkles and lines, Botox® and dermal fillers go about their jobs differently. Dermal fillers, which are made of a hyaluronic acid gel, are used to plump wrinkles, folds, and facial features that have lost volume due to aging. Botox®, on the other hand, involves injecting purified botulinum toxin into facial muscles to prevent them from being able to contract. When a muscle can’t contract, it can’t pull on the overlying skin and cause wrinkles. Botox® helps wrinkles to relax and soften.

Are All Dermal Fillers The Same?

No. Though all dermal fillers are injected into wrinkles, folds, and facial features to replace lost volume, they have different ingredients that make them suitable for different parts of the face. For example, Juvéderm VOLUMA is specifically designed to add volume to the cheek area. Restalyne Lyft®, on the other hand, is best for adding shape to the lips and lifting wrinkles around the mouth and nasolabial folds. When you come in to see us at San Diego Cosmetic Laser Clinic, Dr. Mani will recommend the best dermal filler for your needs.

Will I Look Like I’ve Had Work Done?

We all know what a poorly performed Botox® job looks like, with the patient’s face seemingly “frozen” in the same expression. When administered by someone who is licensed and trained, you should not lose the ability to show expression following a Botox® treatment. Dermal fillers also provide subtle improvements by enhancing the natural contour of the face and smoothing lines and wrinkles. Dr. Mani is a platinum award winner for Botox®, Juvéderm®, Restalyne®, and Restalyne Lyft® and has the expertise to provide you with the natural looking results you desire.

Do Botox® And Dermal Filler Treatments Hurt?

At San Diego Cosmetic Laser, we do our best to make your treatment as comfortable as possible. Most patients report that Botox® and dermal filler treatments feel like a pinch. If your pain threshold is low, a numbing cream applied to the treatment area before your procedure can alleviate needle stick pain. Some dermal fillers, like Juvéderm XC and Juvéderm VOLUMA XC, contain lidocaine within the injection to help minimize discomfort.

Is There Any Downtime Following A Botox® Or Dermal Filler Treatment?

Botox® has zero downtime and patients can resume their normal activities immediately following treatment. Depending on the area treated, dermal fillers may cause some mild bruising or swelling. These symptoms typically resolve in a week or less.

When Will I See Results?

With Botox®, most patients start to notice a difference in their appearance within 24 to 48 hours with results lasting up to four months. With dermal fillers, the results are immediate and long lasting. Some fillers, like Radiesse®, provide results that continue to improve over time. Depending on the type of filler you receive, the effects can last anywhere from six months to five years.

Start The New Year With A Fresh Face And Boost In Confidence

After a season of giving to others, why not give yourself the gift of a smooth, youthful complexion and a boost in confidence? At San Diego Cosmetic Laser Clinic, we offer the highest quality cosmetic services to enhance your natural beauty and provide you with outstanding results. Dr. Mani’s exceptional care, combined with the knowledge of our compassionate staff, makes us one of the best skincare providers in San Diego.

If you have any questions about Botox® or dermal fillers we haven’t answered here, please reach out to us. Our goal is to make sure you’re comfortable and that we’ve addressed all of your concerns prior to treatment. Call us today to schedule your free consultation!