Comparing Injectable Options for Wrinkle Reduction with Gardner Plastic Surgery

Minimally invasive skin care treatments that rely on injections to reduce wrinkles, fine lines, and other signs of facial aging are by far the most popular cosmetic procedures performed in the U.S. In fact, more than 10 million of these procedures were performed in the U.S. in 2018, according to data from the American Society of Plastic Surgeons. Botox™ and similar neuromodulators such as Dysport®, Xeomin®, and Jeuveau™ accounted for almost 7,500,000 of the procedures, while soft tissue filler injections accounted for just under 2,700,000 of them.

The popularity of these treatments stems from their effectiveness, relative low cost, and because they offer quick results with little or no recovery time and near immediate resumption of normal daily activities. But what exactly are these injections and what is the difference between Botox™ and dermal fillers?

Naples, Florida-based Gardner Plastic Surgery offers its patients a variety of injectable options, and recommends a particular injectable based upon the skin condition(s) targeted and the patient’s aesthetic goals. Read on to learn more the differences between Botox™ and dermal fillers such as Restylane®, Juvederm®, and Radiesse®.

Difference Between Botox™ and Dermal Fillers

The easiest way to understand the difference between Botox™ and dermal fillers can be found within the latter’s name. Simply put, a dermal filler works by filling in space underneath wrinkles, creases, and fine lines and plumping up the underlying skin. Botox™ and related formulations work by blocking nerve signals in muscles underneath the skin. The resultant relaxing of the underlying muscles eases the depth and appearance of dynamic wrinkles—also known as expression lines—which were ultimately caused by a lifetime of making facial expressions.

Botox™ Considerations

As previously noted, Botox™ and similar neuromodulators accounted for about 75 percent of the 10 million injectable facial wrinkle treatments performed in 2018, making this type of treatment the more popular option. This could be because Botox™ has been safely used to correct winkles for decades and has more name recognition than the different dermal fillers.

Botox™ is most commonly used to treat wrinkles and lines on the upper part of the face and around the mouth. Studies have shown that Botox™ treatment can reduce the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines by up to 80 percent, with results lasting from three to five months. In particular, Botox™ is used to correct:

• Glabellar lines (above the nose and between the eyes and eyebrows)
• Forehead wrinkles
• Crow’s feet
• Bunny lines (bridge of the nose)
• Lipstick lines (around the mouth)
• Marionette lines (vertical lines from corner of mouth to chin)
• Chin dimpling

Your Dermal Filler Options

Along with adding volume and fullness to the skin, dermal fillers typically contain ingredients designed to stimulate collagen production and/or help the skin retain moisture. Most dermal fillers can technically be utilized anywhere that Botox™ can be injected, but, depending upon the specific filler, can prove most effective for particular facial areas or types of wrinkles. The primary dermal fillers offered at Gardner Plastic Surgery include:

Radiesse®—Especially effective on deep frown lines, crow’s feet, and nasolabial folds, studies have shown that this filler may reduce the appearance of deep wrinkles by up to 80 percent, with results lasting for up to two years in some patients.

Restylane®—This filler is effective at adding volume and fullness to skin, which reduces the appearance of moderate to severe winkles and creases, such as nasolabial folds, as well as lighter wrinkles and lines around the mouth.

Juvederm®—Available in several different formulations to target different facial areas, this filler adds volume to sunken facial areas, while filling in wrinkles and lines.

Learn More Through a Consultation at Gardner Plastic Surgery

If you would like to learn more about which one of these injectable procedures might prove most effective for reducing wrinkles and other signs of aging on your face, Dr. Paul Gardner or Dr. Leo Baccaro would be happy to speak to you in a one-on-one consultation. Our surgeons at Gardner Plastic Surgery have a solid reputation for helping patients choose cosmetic procedures that best meet the aesthetic goals of their clients. Contact Gardner Plastic Surgery today at 239.566.2611 to schedule your initial consultation.