Botox vs Filler – whats the difference?

If you are struggling to decide which treatment to go for, here are a few things to help you differentiate between the two. Filler (it does what it says) It will fill a hole. The hole being the lines. This is where the muscle tone has become slack resulting in the appearance of lines and uneven muscle tone. To put it very simply, filler will plump out these areas using predominantly hyaluronic acid, (which we have in our skin already) this will attract water which will plump it out for longer. Fillers generally last for about 7-8 months and some longer still. Botox on the other hand (again very simply) works very differently. The chemicals in Botox will send a message to your brain telling it not to frown etc. The muscle is then relaxed so it gives the appearance of a smooth surface on the skin, hence lines are ironed out. Botox is also preventative over a period of time. If the skin is not getting a chance to ‘crinkle’ then the creases in the skin will diminish. Think of a bed sheet, if it was all creased, you would iron it out. If it were to be left flat over months, even if you were to crumple it up again, it wouldn’t crease immediately! That is my sheet analogy to demonstrate how botox is preventative!

You need to discuss in detail your treatment objectives and communication is very important with the practitioner carrying out your treatment. You both need to know exactly what you want to achieve, therefore it is a good idea to spend time discussing the treatment options and effects.