Dr. GK Ananda
Botox Vs. Fillers
When beauty became a competition
Fun Facts
Botox & Fillers
Welcome to the exciting realm of injectables! If you’re new to this, don’t worry, it’s not as daunting as it might seem. Yes, needles are involved, but you may find that the slight discomfort is entirely worthwhile – and you’re definitely not alone in exploring this option. In your first lesson, we’ll delve into the fundamentals: Botox vs. fillers.
The initial and perhaps most crucial thing to understand is that Botox is a brand name, not the treatment itself. The actual cosmetic procedure falls under the category of neuromodulators, and various brands offer this treatment, including Botox, Dysport, Xeomin, or Jeuveau. Interestingly, “Botox” has become a widely used term to refer to this treatment, regardless of the specific brand you choose. It’s akin to saying “Band-Aid” instead of “adhesive bandage.” After all, “neuromodulator” might be a bit of a mouthful and doesn’t have quite the same allure!
To grasp the distinction between Botox and dermal fillers, you can visualize them as two separate circles in a Venn diagram. On the left, we have Botox, which primarily targets the facial lines that result from habitual muscle movements (such as the “11” lines between your brows caused by frowning). On the right, we find fillers – injectables designed to replenish lost volume that often occurs with age, while also offering the possibility to enhance facial features like the jawline, nose, or lips.
In this sense, Botox and fillers represent two distinct treatments. However, within the Venn diagram, they intersect in the middle. Both injectables share the common goal of bestowing smoother, more youthful-looking skin. Consequently, you have the option to choose between Botox and fillers – or even consider both, depending on the specific results you desire.
Our experts have provided insights into the disparities between Botox and fillers, as well as what you can anticipate from each treatment.
What is Botox'?
Botox. These substances temporarily relax muscle movements by blocking the release of acetylcholine, an organic chemical and neurotransmitter responsible for either smoothing fine lines or triggering muscle contractions. When strategically administered across the facial area, Botox effectively minimizes existing lines and curbs movements that can lead to deeper wrinkles over time. This preventive aspect is why many dermatologists and aestheticians advocate for its use. Furthermore, Botox has applications beyond aesthetics and can be employed to address medical concerns like chronic migraines, spasticity, or excessive sweating.
It’s important to note that “Botox” is a specific brand name within the broader category of botulinum neurotoxins. While you might schedule an appointment for a “Botox” treatment, you could receive an alternative brand such as Dysport, Xeomin, or Jeuveau. All of these options have received approval from the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), and the choice among them will depend on your dermatologist’s recommendation, taking into account your individual anatomy, needs, and goals.
Botox Concerns & Expenses:
Like most procedures, there are potential risks to consider. Dr. Hibler mentions that minor side effects such as swelling, bruising, redness, and headaches can occur. In some instances, temporary ptosis, characterized by a drooping eyelid, may also be observed.
The cost of the treatment varies, typically ranging from RM500 to RM3,000. The final expense depends on your geographical location and the number of Botox units administered. Some dermatologists opt to charge by specific areas treated rather than individual units.
Kim Kardashian
“Botox is my saving grace.”
What is filler?
Dermal and volumizing fillers typically consist of cosmetic gels, commonly formulated with hyaluronic acid. This substance has a remarkable ability to bind to water, enabling it to effectively restore lost volume. Consequently, this added volume serves to plump the facial contours, resulting in the smoothing of lines and the improvement of sagging skin.
Fillers are most suitable for addressing issues related to volume loss and facial folds. They prove particularly effective in diminishing the appearance of lines that are noticeable when the face is at rest, such as nasolabial folds or marionette lines. Furthermore, fillers play a significant role in reinstating structure and volume to areas like the cheeks, mid-face, or lips. They are also employed to enhance specific facial features, such as the nose, jawline, or chin, and to reduce the prominence of shadows under the eyes.
Filler Concerns & Expenses:
When receiving treatment from a certified dermatologist or medical expert, the potential risks associated with fillers are typically minimal. While it’s a rare occurrence, unintended injection into a blood vessel can lead to skin necrosis. Additional, less severe risks encompass minor infections, swelling, bruising, and the potential for asymmetry, which can usually be corrected with a follow-up appointment.
Regarding the expenses related to filler treatments, the effects generally endure for approximately nine months to a year, with estimated costs ranging from RM1500 to RM7,500 per syringe.
How Do Botox and Fillers Differ?
The primary distinction between Botox and fillers lies in their target areas. According to experts, Botox is most effective at addressing dynamic lines on the face, whereas fillers are better suited for addressing volume loss and facial folds. Regardless of the chosen treatment, the ultimate outcome should be smoother, plumper-looking skin.
The choice between Botox and fillers also hinges on your specific objectives. Fillers are typically used to address existing volume loss, whereas Botox can serve to diminish existing lines or serve as a preventive measure for younger patients, although it may not eliminate deeply entrenched wrinkles.
Another significant difference pertains to commitment. Botox is akin to adding salt while cooking—you can always add more, but you cannot remove it once it’s administered. The neurotoxin will naturally degrade in your system over time. In contrast, fillers can be dissolved using an enzyme called hyaluronidase. When injected into the area with filler, hyaluronidase can break down hyaluronic acid, facilitating its dissolution.
What Do Experts Suggest
Numerous misconceptions surround both Botox and fillers. Many people fear that Botox will result in a frozen appearance, inhibiting their ability to convey emotions, while fillers might leave them looking swollen or unnaturally altered. This need not be the case, as emphasized by Dr. GK Ananda. Hence, it’s advisable to seek a practitioner who begins with a conservative amount and adjusts as necessary. Ideally, the best injectables should enhance your natural features discreetly, with the changes being imperceptible to anyone but yourself. As Dr. GK Ananda explains, it’s about elevating your existing features.
Ultimately, the most crucial recommendation is to find a trained dermatologist or plastic surgeon for your injections, as advised by Dr. GK Ananda.