What Is BOTOX® And How Does It Work?
BOTOX® is a neurotoxin obtained from the bacteria Clostridium Botulinum, an active bacteria that is found in the natural environment such as forests, lakes, and soils. The neurotoxin is safe to use in extremely small doses and works by blocking the nerve signal to the muscle where injected. The injection of the toxin prevents the release of acetylcholine (a neurotransmitter) to block the muscle cells from contracting. When the muscle cannot contract, the wrinkles in the skin will relax and soften.
BOTOX® injections are commonly used in the forehead and around the eyes. The treatment is quick and easy and requires no downtime. The effects of the BOTOX® can be noticeable after 3-5 days post-treatment, and full effects may be noticed after an additional two weeks. Results usually last 3 months before requiring any additional injections.
What Is A Facial Filler And How Does It Work?
Unlike BOTOX® where the injection paralyzes the muscle, facial fillers (also known as dermal fillers) reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles by restoring volume to the face. As we age, our body begins to produce less hyaluronic acid and collagen which is responsible for retaining water to give you a plump, youthful appearance. Facial fillers inject hyaluronic acid into the face to temporarily add volume and fullness to your skin to smooth out wrinkles and fine lines. Typical areas of use for dermal fillers include:
- Lip lines
- Laugh lines
- Chin or jaw augmentation
- Lip filler
- Restore loss of volume in cheeks
The effects of facial fillers can be seen immediately after injection. Results typically last anywhere from 3 months to 18 months and require follow-up treatments as facial fillers do not result in permanent wrinkle and facial line reduction. Just like BOTOX® treatments, dermal fillers do not require any downtime post-treatment.
Calgary Facial Injections
BOTOX® and facial fillers are two of the most acclaimed non-surgical cosmetic treatments to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. Although both treatments work to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, they each have their own different approach. BOTOX® paralyzes the muscle activity where injected to allow wrinkles and fine lines to relax and smoothen out. Facial fillers restore volume to the face to smooth out wrinkles to restore a youthful glow. You can speak with your dermatologist to determine which cosmetic injection you would benefit the most from.
To find out more about the costs and benefits of BOTOX® treatments and facial fillers and how our skin care specialists can help create a customized treatment that would work best for your specific aesthetic goals and needs, contact our Calgary clinic at (403) 253-2555 or fill in our online contact form.
FAQs
Q: How long do results from a BOTOX® treatment last?
A: Results from a BOTOX® treatment typically last for 3 months before requiring new injections.
Q: Do facial injection treatments hurt?
A: Facial injections are painless and do not require anesthesia. Many patients describe the injection as a small, quick prick in the skin.
Q: How do I know if I should get BOTOX® or facial fillers?
A: If you are looking to reduce the appearance of facial lines and wrinkles on the upper portions of your face, then BOTOX® injections may be more beneficial to you. Facial fillers work best in the lower portions of the face to restore volume in the cheeks and around the nose and eyes. Speak with your dermatologist or book an appointment with one of our skincare specialists at Glenmore Landing Vein Clinic to discuss your aesthetic goals and begin a treatment plan personalized to you. Contact our team by calling (403) 253-2555.