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Botox and Dermal Fillers – What’s the Difference?

6th September 2021
Botox Dermal Fillers Hammersmith - Blythe Road Dental Practice
1000 653 Bev Love

Botox and dermal fillers are both styles of treatment that are administered using injections. These cosmetic procedures are usually carried out in a doctor’s office and are not invasive or lengthy. Many people confuse these two treatments, but they are different.

What is Botox?

Botox is a tiny amount of a purified botulinum toxin. It can be deadly in large amounts, hence the minuscule quantity used. It has been used for years to correct the appearance of wrinkles in the skin around the eyes and forehead. It is not permanent but often lasts three to four months before requiring repeated treatment.

How does Botox Work?

Botox works by freezing the muscles in the treatment areas, minimising the look of wrinkles. The treatment causes the blocking of nerve signals in the muscles at the injection site. Wrinkles will soften, decrease, and perhaps even vanish without these nerve signals. These lines and wrinkles are caused over the years by facial expressions such as smiling, squinting and frowning. Botox will not help saggy skin or skin that has lost plumpness. It will also not help static wrinkles found on the neck or chin.

Blythe Road Dental Practice

Possible Side Effects of Botox

Although not common, there are some side effects to look out for.

  • Eyelid drooping
  • Eyebrow drooping
  • Pain, bruising, redness or swelling
  • Weakness of other facial muscles
  • Rash or irritation
  • Headache
  • Cold or flu symptoms
  • Dry mouth and lips
  • Nausea
  • Trouble swallowing or speaking
  • Gallbladder issues
  • Vision issues

What are Dermal Fillers?

Dermal fillers are injected into the skin to achieve plumpness and volume. The substance used will depend on the area the treatment is for. Different cosmetic issues and signs of ageing may require a slightly different substance to achieve the best results. The time they take to work fully will vary on the treatment. This also applies to how long they will last, with some dermal fillers lasting six months and others up to two years.

Pink dentist chair at Blythe Road Dental

What do Dermal Fillers Treat?

Dermal fillers add fullness to the areas of skin that have thinned with age. They are used to treat several signs of ageing around the lips, cheeks and mouth area. They can be used for fuller lips, enhance shallow spots on the skin, decrease under-eye shadows, fill scar lines or treat static wrinkles.

Possible Side Effects of Dermal Fillers

Although not common, there are some side effects to be aware of.

  • Rash or irritation
  • Pimples
  • Swelling, bruising or redness
  • Skin scarring
  • Vision issues
  • Restricted blood flow to the treatment area

Visit our treatment page for more information on Dermal Fillers Hammersmith.

Botox and dermal fillers are not recommended for those pregnant, breastfeeding, or with certain health issues. Always consult a specialist, qualified cosmetic treatment provider, such as Blythe Road, before treatment.

For further information on the cosmetic treatments we offer at Blythe Road, contact our professional team on 020 7602 5089.