BOTOX® or Fillers? Which Cosmetic Injectable Should You Get First?

Many of us want to turn back the hands of time to erase fine lines and wrinkles. Non-invasive cosmetic dermatology can help you achieve healthier and younger-looking skin without any incisions. Neuromodulators such as  BOTOX, Xeomin and Dysport all help to relax wrinkles and fine lines.

Based on your specific skin and goals, our expert injectors at Bay Area Cosmetic Dermatology choose from a large library of dermal fillers to replace lost volume, rejuvenate and sculpt, all with little to no downtime. So, what is the difference between Botox and fillers, and how do we choose which combination of injectables is right for you? 

Consulting with an experienced provider is the best way to determine what will provide you with the best, most beautiful and natural results. Call our clinic in San Francisco, CA to learn everything you need to know before making this decision or read below. 

Why should I choose injectables? 

There are plenty of facial rejuvenation options that make your skin appear smoother and tighter. However, topical products often won't produce the dramatic results we're looking for, and invasive plastic surgery can lead to extended recovery times and facial scars. Injectables are a great solution for treating visible signs of aging, like frown lines, Crow’s feet, and hollow areas in the mid-face and cheeks. The great news is that whether you pick BOTOX or dermal fillers, cosmetic injectables require little prep work. 

About BOTOX wrinkle relaxers 

BOTOX is an anti-wrinkle treatment that smoothes deep lines and wrinkles by injecting a product called botulinum toxin type A into the facial muscles. By blocking the nerve signals and relaxing the muscles, we can smooth the skin and reduce creases. Laughing, frowning, and other facial expressions won’t contribute to future lines when these areas are treated so neurodomulators are also a very effective preventative treatment. Our expert team at Bay Area Cosmetic Dermatology can address the following through BOTOX:   

•  Crow’s feet (laugh lines around the eyes)  
•  Glabellar lines  (aka the 11's between your brows) 
•  Forehead lines   
•  Wrinkles caused by facial expressions  

How dermal fillers work 

Dermal fillers are effective in areas that have lost volume over time. Once injected into the skin, fillers plump the mid to lower face to provide a youthful appearance. These gel-like substances can be natural or synthetic, depending on your problem areas and goals. Our cosmetic dermatology facility in San Francisco, CA can treat the following and more with dermal fillers:   

•  Marionette lines   
•  Nasolabial folds (smile lines)   
•  Volume loss in the cheeks   
•  Volume loss in the lips  

Safety and side effects 

Both BOTOX and dermal filler products have been used for years and are considered safe, but only when injected by a trained professional. Bay Area Cosmetic Dermatology does everything we can to ensure safe results and a speedy recovery after cosmetic injectables. Our facial rejuvenation procedure is relatively quick and painless, and we can provide you with instructions for taking care of your skin at home. 

Unlike plastic surgery, side effects are minimal and include mild bruising and swelling around the injection sites. These should dissipate after only a few hours. We do suggest that you avoid exercise and strenuous activity for at least 24 hours. If you experience discomfort, you can apply a cool pack to the area. Sleeping upright the night after your appointment can also minimize inflammation and bleeding. 

If you experience any red injection points or if your provider thinks you may bruise, we offer complimentary V-Beam (vascular laser) to help minimize and speed up healing time. 

Complete facial rejuvenation 

Our skin loses elasticity and smoothness as we age. You may be noticing fine lines, creases, and hollow areas or perhaps looking to prevent these in the first place . It is possible to refresh your appearance through anti-wrinkle treatments, like cosmetic injectables. BOTOX wrinkle relaxers and dermal fillers provide fulfilling outcomes without the downtime associated with plastic surgery. Our team at Bay Area Cosmetic Dermatology is here to guide you through every aspect of your skin care journey in San Francisco, CA. Call us to schedule your injectables today.