What's The Real Difference Between Botox And Fillers?
No matter how you feel about cosmetic surgeries and other cosmetic enhancements, there's no denying that their popularity is becoming more apparent. Cosmetic surgeries have become more common and normalized as a way to feel more confident in one's appearance. With these procedures becoming more normal, their popularity is on the rise. Statista explains that the United States registered the highest number of cosmetic surgeries performed in 2020, with close to 1.5 million procedures. Additionally, there were close to 3.2 million non-surgical cosmetic procedures performed.
Two of the most common non-surgical cosmetic procedures are Botox and fillers. These procedures have become normalized partially thanks to celebrity figures who have become more open about receiving these two procedures.
While the terms "Botox" and "fillers" are often interchanged and confused with one another, it's important to note that they are differences between them. Before deciding which cosmetic procedure you are interested in, you should check into which one is best suited for your goals.
What is a Botox procedure?
Perhaps one of the most known cosmetic procedures to date, Botox is likely the first that comes to mind when you think of non-surgical cosmetic enhancements. French Radience explains that Botox is an injectable derived from a bacteria that temporarily paralyzes the muscles so they can no longer fold or crease the skin.
Botox injections are not only used for wrinkles or fine lines but can also be used as a preventative measure to reduce excessive sweating in your underarms. Other issues that can be treated with Botox include migraines, bladder issues, and uncontrollable blinking.
Eternal Dermatology adds that Botox is usually only applied in areas of facial expressions. These areas include the crow's feet, the area between the brows, and frown lines.
This procedure is fairly quick and can usually be applied within 30 minutes. The results will start to appear within two weeks and can last you for months after application.
Botox is not recommended for areas where it is already smooth but rather where you already see wrinkles or fine lines.
What are fillers?
On the other hand, dermal fillers offer a different set of results. Southeastern Dermatology explains fillers as injectables where you can fill in the tissue that has already lost its volume. They are noninvasive and are conducted using needles. The procedure is used to fill up areas where you want a fuller and plumper look. Fillers are also used to help contour areas and give them your desired shape. Fillers can be used on your cheeks, lips, under your eyes, and around the mouth area. The American Society of Plastic Surgeons adds that fillers cannot provide facelifts or brow lifts, which are procedures that would require surgery.
The procedure can be very quick and only takes from 15 minutes to an hour long to complete. Depending on the work that has been done and which type of fillers were used, the results can last from several months to several years.
The type of filler used in your procedure will depend on what results you seek and the area you plan to inject. Fillers can range from soft to sturdy, which will ultimately decide how long they last.