When we talk about cosmetic injections, it’s common to hear the terms fillers and injections used interchangeably. For example, you might hear that your doctor injected you with Botox or that he filled out your cheeks with Restylane.
But what’s the difference between fillers and injections?
You might think it’s pretty simple – fillers add volume, and injections reduce it, right? But in reality, there are many differences between injectables and facial fillers, from their intended use to their cost to their recovery time.
This article will discuss these differences and guide you through your options regarding anti-aging treatments, so you can decide which ones might be right for you.
What Are Fillers?
A dermal filler is a substance injected into the skin to help treat deeper wrinkles, smooth wrinkles, add volume, and give the face a more youthful appearance.
There are many different types of fillers, each made from other materials. Common types of dermal fillers today include:
- Hyaluronic acid
- Collagen
- Fat injections.
Collagen is made from animal tissue like cattle or pigs. Fat is taken from other body parts, most often the abdomen or thighs, and injected into areas where it will be stored until surgery or cosmetic procedures are needed.
Hyaluronic acid is taken from bacteria found in rooster combs and cow horns. It acts as a lubricant when mixed with water. Lipo-fillers, or fat injections, have become increasingly popular because the person can provide their soft tissue fillers rather than have it harvested from another part of their body.
Essential Things to Consider Before Getting Fillers
Before getting a dermal filler procedure, it’s essential to consult with board-certified dermatologists or plastic surgeons to discuss your goals. They will be able to help you decide if fillers are the right choice for you and which type of filler may be best.
Remember that results are not permanent, and you may need touch-ups every few months to maintain your results. Fillers can also be combined with other plastic surgery procedures to achieve a complete result.
Side effects may include swelling, bruising, redness, tenderness, and itching at the injection site. A few days after treatment, you may experience minor swelling that should decrease over time.
Who Is Eligible for Fillers?
Anyone with moderate to severe wrinkles on their forehead or crow’s feet can benefit from treatment with facial fillers. Fillers are an excellent option for those who want to reduce the appearance of lines without undergoing a more invasive procedure like surgery. However, fillers should not be confused with injections, which help people achieve smoother skin by breaking up fat cells in the face and reducing pore size.
What Are Injections?
Injections are a cosmetic treatment that involves injecting a substance into the skin to improve its appearance. Botulinum toxin (Botox) and dermal fillers are the most common types of injectables. Fillers work by plumping up wrinkles or filling in acne scars, while Botox paralyzes muscles to reduce wrinkles.
Both injections can be used independently or combined with other treatments such as laser resurfacing, facials, peels, and microdermabrasion. Side effects may include drooping eyelids, double vision, a blurry vision if too much is injected near the eye area, and difficulty swallowing or speaking if too much is injected near the throat area.
Essential Things to Consider Before Getting Injections
You should make sure that you consult with your dermatologist before getting any injections. They will help you decide which treatment is best for your specific needs and inform you about the risks involved and what kind of side effects you might experience. Some people may not have any side effects, while others may suffer from allergic reactions or excessive bruising. It’s important to note that a number of factors can influence how someone reacts to an injection, including age, medical history, and previous skin conditions.
Who Is Eligible For Injections?
Generally, those over 18 years old and healthy enough to receive an injection are eligible. Many people use these procedures to boost self-confidence or improve their physical appearance, so it doesn’t matter if you’re young or old.
So, Are Fillers & Injectables the Same Thing?
No, fillers and injectables are not the same things. Here’s a quick breakdown of the difference between the two:
Injectable dermal fillers are injected into an area where wrinkles or folds exist to add volume or restore shape. Injectables (Botox) can be used to temporarily reduce the appearance of wrinkles by relaxing overactive muscles in that area.
Botox is often used in places like frown lines, forehead lines, and crow’s feet around your eyes. It has been shown to work for up to 4 months. On the other hand, injectable fillers are typically injected once every 6-12 months. The longevity of filler results depends on the type of filler being used but usually lasts anywhere from 1-2 years, with some exceptions lasting up to 3 years.
FAQs About Dermal Filler Injections
Q. How long do dermal filler injections last?
A. Most fillers are made with hyaluronic acid, a substance that’s naturally found in your skin. This acid holds onto water, plumping up the injection area. Dermal filler procedures can last anywhere from six months to two years, depending on the type of filler used and where it’s injected. Injections into the lips usually last shorter than injections into other areas, such as the cheeks.
Q. What is a fillers injection?
A. Fillers are substances injected into the skin to help fill in wrinkles and plump lips and add volume to the face. Many different types of fillers are available on the market today, each with its own set of benefits and drawbacks. Injections of fillers are relatively quick and easy and can often be done in minutes.
Q. What is better, fillers or Botox?
A. Botox works by temporarily paralyzing the muscles in your face, which reduces the appearance of wrinkles. Fillers, on the other hand, plump up the skin to reduce the appearance of wrinkles and add volume.
Contact DSC Laser & Skin Care Center in Los Angeles to Rejuvenate Your Skin
Regarding dermal fillers and injections, there are a few key differences. For starters, dermal fillers are temporary, while injections are not. Ultimately, the decision between fillers or injections comes down to your individual needs and goals.
If you need to enhance beauty with a three-dimensional, multi-faceted plan, visit us at DSC Laser& Skin Care Center for a consultation. We are located in Los Angeles, CA, providing exceptional skin care treatments to men and women of all skin types.
Contact us now to book an appointment.
