Botox and dermal fillers hold two of the three slots in the top three most-requested nonsurgical cosmetic procedures. While both Botox and dermal fillers are cosmetic injectables that turn back the hands of time, they aren’t interchangeable. They have different ingredients and target different cosmetic concerns.
Luckily, you won’t have to make this decision on your own. Alfred Sofer, MD reviews your aesthetic goals and recommends the right injectable for you during your consultation in our Fairfield, Connecticut office.
In the meantime, you can learn more about which type of injectable might be right for you.
What can Botox do for me?
There’s no denying that Botox has become a household name since it was approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in 2002 for cosmetic purposes, and it’s remained the most popular nonsurgical cosmetic injection. Botox 一 which contains a purified derivative of the C. botulinum bacterium called onabotulinumtoxin A 一 temporarily reduces the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. Specifically, Botox reduces the appearance of dynamic wrinkles on your forehead, eyebrow area, and around your eyes. Dynamic wrinkles are caused by repetitive muscle contractions, which is why the muscle-relaxing power of Botox has an effect on them.
You might consider Botox if:
- Your wrinkles formed due to repetitive facial expressions such as squinting
- You’re bothered by forehead lines and wrinkles
- You have crow’s feet or glabellar lines
- Your wrinkles make you appear grumpy or tired
- You don’t have any of the listed contraindications for Botox such as having keloid scarring
Receiving Botox injections is a simple and short process. It only takes about 15-20 minutes, and Dr. Sofer administers them in our office. Results typically last up to four months, and you’ll start to see results in as little as 24-48 hours.
What can dermal fillers do for me?
Dermal fillers are a category of cosmetic injectables. There are many brands and lines of fillers that vary by their main ingredient and intended outcome. Unlike Botox, dermal fillers reduce the appearance of wrinkles by “filling” in the creases of static wrinkles, those caused by loss of volume. Dr. Sofer and our team offer:
- Hyaluronic acid-based fillers, such as JUVÉDERM®, Restylane®, BELOTERO BALANCE®, and Perlane®
- Calcium hydroxyapatite, which includes RADIESSE®
- Poly-L-Lactic acid fillers, which includes Sculptra® Aesthetic
Depending on which type of filler you choose, dermal fillers can:
- Reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles
- Add fullness to your cheeks
- Soften your jawline
- Add volume to thin lips
- Enhance the appearance of your tear trough
- Improve the look of recessed scars (such as acne scars)
Dermal fillers tend to last longer than Botox, but the specific timeline depends on which filler you use and your unique metabolism. Sculptra, for instance, can last for more than 24 months.
You might consider dermal fillers if:
- You have static wrinkles
- You’re bothered by sagging skin
- You want long-lasting results
- You want to restore facial volume in your cheeks and/or lips
- You don’t have any allergies to the key ingredients
During your consultation, Dr. Sofer explores all your cosmetic goals and recommends the appropriate injectable for you. You might find that you don’t need to choose between Botox or fillers. Because Botox and fillers address different concerns, you can safely receive both types of cosmetic injectables for the ultimate nonsurgical facelift. On the other hand, if injectables won’t deliver the dramatic results you’re looking for, you can explore our other age-defying offerings such as photofacials and facelifts.
Ready to learn more? Call Dr. Sofer at 203-336-9862 一 or use our online booking tool 一 and get started today.