They may appear similar but they are actually two very different things
Sometimes the line between Botox and fillers can seem blurred. If you are just beginning to explore injectables it may feel difficult to determine which one is right for your needs.
This in mind, we interviewed one of the leading experts in the field. We wanted to know how they differed and the most important questions to ask when considering treatment. Find out which one is best for your needs by reading on…
Botox
What is Botox, and how does it work.
According to Dr David Jack, an Harley Street aesthetic doctor, botox can be described as the abbreviation of botulinum poison, which is a grouping of molecules that are produced by the bacteria Clostridium Botulinum. Because it is able to block the action of some nerve types, it is known as a toxic substance. This toxin has been refined in medicine. It can be injected at tiny doses into the areas where it is desired to block the action on some nerves.
In aesthetics, you can inject it directly into the muscles of facial expression to relax muscle tension. This relaxes lines and wrinkles. It can also be used for relaxing muscles that pull on the skin, such as those in the neck, to create a lifting effect. It can also block sweat glands so it can be used to treat hyperhidrosis. Botox Newcastle injections into the scalp can help with migraines.
Dependent on the person, effects may last for up to 3 months.
Botox side effects
Botox is rarely associated with side effects. There are risks of skin bruising and tenderness. Some people may experience headache the first day after treatment. Side effects such as difficulty swallowing or flu-like symptoms are rarer.
Who can/can’t get Botox?
Botox is generally considered to be a safe treatment. There are few exclusions. Botox is contraindicated in pregnant women, myasthenia Gravis, and other rare neurological disorders.
“Generally, patients are in their late 20s. I don’t recommend treating patients younger than this. Preventative Botox is way too expensive!
Ask your consultant what you should do before you consider a treatment.
You should feel secure in the hands and care of your practitioner when you are receiving any kind of treatment. To ensure that the job is completed safely and correctly, don’t be afraid to ask questions.
Dr Jack states, “I would recommend always asking about the qualifications and the length of time they have been practicing the treatment.” Also, ensure that the product is of the correct brand.
“In terms of the treatment itself, it is difficult for cosmetic purposes to say who it is right for. This is always a matter for opinion and should be a joint decision made by the patient and the practitioner, based upon their experience and your wishes. Do not feel pressured to get a treatment. Instead, take a step back to see if it is right.
How much does botox cost?
It all depends on the clinic or practitioner. A treatment for the entire face would cost around PS450 to PS800 in central London if you have a well-trained and experienced doctor. Even though they don’t have the medical qualifications to perform treatments, beauty therapists still have the ability to do so and their prices are much lower. All this is great, but it can all go wrong.
Fillers
What is filler and how does it work?
The injectable medical product called “dental fillers” is intended to increase the volume of tissues. There are many fillers to choose from, including the most common hyaluronic filler, collagen-stimulating fillers like sculptra, and permanent fillers such as silicone. These fillers are not available in the UK. Fat transfer can also be considered a filler.
Fillers can be used to revitalise and replace skin volume. There are many types and consistency of fillers that can be used in different areas. The technology is constantly improving.
Results last approximately 18 months. However, they can be reversed if needed.
Side effects of fillers
Side effects from dermal fillers can be very rare. They include bruising and swelling as well as lumpiness. Rarely, there is vascular obstruction (intentionally injecting filler into a blood vessel and causing blockage or damage to the tissues that receive blood). The latter is a rare problem. Side effects such side effects as nerve damage or allergic reaction are rare.
Ask your consultant what you should do before fillers are considered.
It is important to find out about their experience and qualifications. It is vital to verify that your practitioner has the medical qualifications and experience to inject hyaluronidase in order to dissolve filler.
Who can/can’t use fillers?
There are several contraindications to fillers. These include skin infection, allergies to any filler or pregnancy, prior reaction to filler, and allergy to the filler. Fillers, which are generally considered ‘inert medical devices’ can be purchased over the counter and not need to be prescribed. This allows for fillers to be used by beauticians and hairdressers. This creates a lot more problems for the industry.
“I would also like to know the brand and the type of filler that is being used. Juvederm, Teosyal and other brands have the most research behind their products so they are usually considered the safest. I have witnessed real problems when beauty therapists used cheap fillers.
How much are fillers worth?
“Like Botox prices, dermal fillers can vary enormously in price. A good medical clinic would expect Juvederm to cost between PS300-700 per syringe. I would expect to spend around PS1,500-3500 for larger volumes of full-face treatments.
“Lower than this, and I would definitely doubt the experience and quality product being used.
