Dermal fillers and toxin injections have skyrocketed in popularity over the years for their quick and easy treatments that provide nearly instant results that last for up to years at a time. But, do you know the difference between dermal fillers and toxins and know which ones are right for you? Let’s go over each treatment and their benefits, so you better know what to expect before your consultation with Dr. Levens.
What are dermal fillers?
Dermal fillers are minimally invasive injectable cosmetic treatments that smooth away the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles around the lower two-thirds of the face. These fillers typically work by adding volume back into areas of the face that have sunken or lost their natural plump over time, causing the appearance of wrinkles. Juvederm® and Restylane® are dermal fillers that are made of a hyaluronic acid-based gel, a naturally occurring sugar in the body that bonds to water and gives the skin its youthful appearance. Fillers do just that – they add volume into areas of the face that you desire to have a more youthful appearance.
What are toxin injections?
Like dermal fillers, injectable toxin treatments smooth away the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, but are typically recommended for the upper third of the face. That’s because most toxin treatments like Botox® and Dysport® use an active ingredient called botulinum toxin. This active ingredient does not smooth wrinkles by adding volume, but instead relaxes or freezes the muscles in the treated areas that are causing wrinkles through repeated facial expressions and muscle contractions. That is why toxin injectables are typically only recommended for wrinkles that we like to call “action wrinkles.”
How long do dermal filler and injectable treatments last?
How long your dermal filler or injectable treatments will last generally depend on the type of treatment you choose. Most dermal fillers like Juvederm® and Restylane® typically provide immediate results that can last anywhere between 6-8 months. Most injectable treatments like Botox® and Dysport® typically provide results for 3-4 months at a time. Because of this, we generally recommend patients coming in once to twice a year for dermal fillers and three to four times a year for toxin treatments.
Which dermal fillers or injectables are right for me?
The right dermal filler and injectable treatment for you is really going to depend on the results you desire and how often you wish to see us to maintain your appearance. The best way to determine which treatments are right for you is to sit down with Dr. Levens in a private consultation.
Want to know which dermal filler and injectables are right for you? Contact us today to schedule your one-on-one consultation with Dr. Levens. He’ll be happy to sit down with you and listen to your concerns. Dr. Levens will then develop a fully customized treatment plan to help you reach your aesthetic goals. In light of recent events, we are also happy to offer virtual consultations that allow you to get your questions answered from the comfort and convenience of your very own home.