Botox ® Versus Dermal Fillers

Aug. 29, 2012 - PRLog -- As the skin ages, the underlying tissue weakens and collagen production decreases, leading to the development of fine lines and wrinkles. When looking for a solution to remedy these effects of aging, many people will turn to facial rejuvenation treatments like Botox® injections or dermal fillers. Both procedures are a quick and effective way to obtain younger looking skin—as they help to minimize the appearance of crow’s feet, frown lines, and various other wrinkles—but most people don’t know that Botox® and dermal fillers use different methods to achieve the same result. They may also vary in how long the effects of the treatment will last, in what types of adverse reactions may develop, and how much each set of injections cost.

Botox® was approved by the FDA in 2002 and grew rapidly in popularity upon its release. According to the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery, it was reported that nearly 2.75 million procedures were performed in 2007—just five years after its release onto the market. With Botox® the injection solution is comprised of a toxin known as botulinum toxin type A, which is essentially used to paralyze the muscles in the face. Upon injection, the toxin works to block a certain chemical in the affected area that triggers muscle response. When this is prohibited, it allows the muscle to relax, thus giving the skin a smoother appearance. This type of procedure is typically applied to area above the eyebrows, improving the look of frown lines, although it can be used to eliminate crow’s feet and various other problem areas.

Comparable skin treatments use various forms of dermal fillers, including Artefill®, Radiesse®, and Restylane®. These products are used for the same purposes of eliminating fine lines and wrinkles, but differ from Botox® in that they are used to fill in the weakened areas of skin rather than paralyze the underlying facial muscles. Artefill® is a dermal injection that is used to minimize the appearance of smile lines, and is comprised of PMMA and lidocaine. Radiesse® is another type of filler that is calcium based, meaning that after 2-3 years, the injection will be naturally reabsorbed by the body. Lastly, Restylane® is a type of dermal filler that is made up of hyaluronic acid, and is used in areas like the lips, earlobes and lower eyes to create a more youthful complexion for four to six months.

Since there is such a variety among dermal filler treatments, the similarities and differences to Botox® are wide-ranging. Botox® treatments typically last between three and six months, and although many types of dermal fillers last longer than this, some require the same level of maintenance—like Restylane®, which typically lasts for four to six months. One of the differences between the two treatments lies in their potential for adverse reactions to occur. Some of the common side effects of Botox® are bruising at the injection sight and the possibility of an allergic reaction. While dermal fillers carry the same risks, there is also the added possibility of skin infection and necrosis—meaning underlying tissue death—but such serious side effects are rare.

If you are looking into a facial enhancement treatment like Botox® or a form of dermal filler, you should not hesitate to contact a knowledgeable professional for more information. Boston Cosmetic Surgery Center in Marshfield, MA, and Boston Skin Essentials in Brookline, MA, are world-class facilities serving Greater Boston and address a wide variety of body contouring and skin care needs. Dr. Edwin Ishoo, primary surgeon of both facilities, offers a complimentary and no obligation consultation to all clients interested in learning more about the cosmetic options available to them. Contact them at (888) 875-1845 or by visiting http://www.bostoncosmeticsurgerycenter.com for more information or to schedule your free consultation and get started on younger looking skin today.