Botox and dermal fillers are some of the most popular treatments around, and their popularity has been steadily rising for over a decade. Despite their popularity, there’s still some confusion in what they are and how they work, and how they can affect your appearance.
There are three main types of injectables. Neuromodulators, like Botox, are used to temporarily weaken and relax the facial lines, minimizing the appearance of lines and wrinkles. Areas that respond well to Botox include glabellar lines (the ‘elevens’ between your eyebrows), forehead lines, and crow’s feet. It can also be used in other areas as well on the neck and face; your board- certified plastic surgeon can help determine what is best for you.
The second type are dermal fillers, like Juvederm, Vollure and Volbella. These injectables sit under the skin to provide volume and fullness to the skin. As we age, our bodies produce less collagen, hyaluronic acid, and elastin. Fillers can be used to treat various signs of aging, such as plumping thinning lips, filling in shallow areas on the face, decreasing wrinkles under the eyes, and more. There are also different types of fillers – some act as a structural support to help lift the skin, and some lift and smooth folds and wrinkles by adding a subtle amount of volume. Fillers can be used to treat multiple areas of the face, ears, and neck, and many last for up to two years.
Kybella is the third type of injectable which helps reduce your double chin. It is primarily used under the chin, but can also be used to treat facial fat in the jowls and higher, and can even be used for other areas of unwanted fat such as bra fat, anterior armpit fat, dorsal hump, and for postoperative touch-ups (rarely needed). With Kybella, once results are achieved, re-treatment is not expected to be required; in this way, it differs from Botox and fillers.
It’s always best to discuss your goals and options with a board-certified plastic surgeon. These procedures can treat slightly different problems and are usually used in different areas of the face. Dr. Poulter has over 30 years of injectable experience and holds the Master Injector designation from Allergan. Schedule a consultation to discuss what’s best for you!