Botox and dermal fillers are two of the most popular non-surgical treatments for facial rejuvenation. Both soften signs of aging, but they work in different ways and do different jobs. If you are trying to decide which one is right for you, here are the key differences.
What is Botox?
Botox is a purified neurotoxin (botulinum toxin type A) that temporarily relaxes targeted muscles. It is mainly used to soften dynamic wrinkles, the lines caused by expressions such as frowning, smiling or squinting.
Common areas treated with Botox
- frown lines (the "11s") between the eyebrows
- forehead lines
- crow's feet around the eyes
- bunny lines on the nose
- a lip flip or gummy smile
- neck bands (platysmal bands)
How long Botox lasts
Usually three to four months, depending on your metabolism, lifestyle and the dose. Our post on how long Botox lasts explains what affects it.
What are dermal fillers?
Dermal fillers are gel-like substances, often made with hyaluronic acid, injected into the skin to restore lost volume, smooth lines that are visible at rest, and enhance facial contours.
Unlike Botox, fillers do not affect muscle movement. They fill in or plump areas that have thinned or hollowed with age.
Common uses for fillers
- smile lines (nasolabial folds)
- marionette lines at the corners of the mouth
- cheek volume
- lip enhancement
- under-eye hollows (tear troughs)
- chin and jawline definition
- non-surgical nose reshaping
Can I get both?
Yes, and many patients do. Botox and fillers complement each other. For example, Botox can relax forehead lines while filler lifts and shapes the cheeks or jawline.
Used together, they are sometimes called a "liquid facelift": a combined approach that refreshes the face without surgery while keeping the result natural.
Which one do you need?
If your main concern is lines that appear when you move your face, Botox is usually the answer. If it is lost volume, hollows or contour, fillers are. Many faces benefit from a little of both. At a consultation, Dr. Sanghera looks at how your face moves and where it has lost volume, and recommends the plan that fits.
For a longer comparison, including cost factors and who should wait, read Botox vs. fillers: which one is right for you? You can also read about Botox and skin rejuvenation and filler and facial balancing, or book an appointment.