What is the Difference Between Neurotoxin Injections and Fillers?
Typically, neurotoxins are used in the upper area of the face (crow’s feet, between brows and forehead) while fillers are used to create volume or fill lines in the mid and lower areas of the face (lips, under eye/mid cheek areas, around the mouth and jaw line).
Another way to understand the difference is that fillers treat lines/wrinkles that appear when your face is at rest. Lines/wrinkles that appear when your face is animated, such as when you furrow your brow, are treated with neurotoxins.
Neurotoxins, such as Botox, Dysport, and Xeomin, can be used in many different areas of the face and neck. These types of products are used to temporarily paralyze specific muscles and prevent movement that causes creases (or wrinkles). In general, the injections will start to take effect in as little as 48 hours but full effects are achieved at one week with results lasting 3-5 months.
Fillers, such as the Juvederm family of products, Restylane, Radiesse, and Belotero are injectables used to treat lines and fill areas of void in the face. In general, the injection results can be seen almost immediately with full effects evident at one week. Specific fillers can last anywhere from 4-9 months or longer. Part of the variability is based on what area is injected, i.e. the lips have a lot of movement so filler breaks down faster.
Before and After Receiving Neurotoxin Injections
Filler and neurotoxin injections can be performed at the same visit. At times, utilizing both types of injections can provide the best results. Everyone’s face is unique requiring different injectables depending on the areas that the patient wishes to address. We are happy to discuss all options available to each of our patients. Our goal is patient satisfaction, so if there are any questions -please ask!
You can reach our offices by calling 216-514-8899.