Botox vs Fillers…What’s the Difference?

With the multitude of options available for refining lines, wrinkles, and other skin concerns it can be understandably difficult to determine which is best for you and what the differences between them are.

Specifically, Botox and fillers are often confused for one another because of the similarities in their uses. However, they’re actually quite different and knowing this can help you decide which is best for you.

What’s the difference between Botox and fillers (what are they made of)?

One of the most common questions when it comes to the differences in Botox and fillers is what they’re made of. Since this is the biggest difference between them, it’s important to understand exactly what would be going into your body.

Dr. Moore: Botox is a natural toxin derived from bacteria. It is used in cosmetic medicine to relax muscles of facial expression in order to soften wrinkles of the face. Fillers are sterile materials such as hyaluronic acid (a sugar molecule) that are placed under wrinkles to push them up. This softens the appearance of the wrinkles.

What are common areas that can be treated with Botox and Fillers?

Many different areas of the body can benefit from both Botox and fillers depending on what your goals are. Patients receive treatment in areas ranging from the forehead to acne scars, but the type of filler you choose also depends on the location of treatment.

Typically, patients receive Botox in their forehead, glabella, crow’s feet, and frown lines whereas filler are more popularly located in the cheeks, lips, temples, and to fill scars.

What’s the cost difference between Botox and Fillers?

Understandably, the cost difference between Botox and fillers is often questioned. Each treatment can vary depending on the expected results. However, the average cost between each is as follows:

Dr. Moore: Botox costs between $300 and $750 per treatment. Most fillers are $600 per vial, and some are $900.

What’s better for treating wrinkles?

Because Botox and fillers are different and perform differently depending on where they’re placed, it can be confusing to understand which should treat certain ailments. Many patients actually get both Botox and fillers in different areas in order to achieve the best possible outcome.

Dr. Moore: Botox and fillers treat wrinkles differently, and on different areas of the face. Many patients have both Botox and fillers placed on the same day.

Is Botox safer than fillers (or vice versa)?

Since these two treatments are so different, the next question is which is safer? While these treatment options are always safest when done by professionals, both come with their unique risks. However, these are usually very minimal when done professionally, though fillers do cause additional side effects due to the amount of material injected.

Dr. Moore: Botox and fillers are both very safe when performed in the hands of a professional. Fillers by nature carry a slightly larger risk of side effects, such as bruising and vessel damage, because there is a lot more material injected.

No matter which treatment option you’re considering, a trained professional will always be able to point you in the right direction and inform you in all areas you’re concerned about. Ultimately, both Botox and fillers are a sound treatment option depending on your skin woes.