Americans are spending more and more each year on cosmetic enhancements, according to a recent report by the American Society of Plastic Surgeons. That number includes more than 7 million injection procedures performed in 2017, a number that continues to rise. There are two common types of cosmetic injections — Botox and Juvaderm. And if you’re getting your information about cosmetic injections from television commercials or magazine advertisements, you might be surprised to learn there’s a world of difference between the two procedures. Both can dramatically improve the appearance of fine lines and help you achieve a more youthful appearance, and both are injected. That’s about where the similarities end, however. Your cosmetic dermatologist in San Diego, CA, can help you decide which procedure, or combination of the two, will work best to accomplish your goals, but this post can help you have a knowledgeable discussion with your doctor about injection procedures.
Botox
In simplest terms, Botox is an injectable muscle relaxant. Derived from the neurotoxin, botulinum, it works to smooth fine lines and wrinkles by temporarily freezing the muscles. More than 6 million people used Botox as a cosmetic enhancement last year, according to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, though it also has a number of other medical uses. It is sometimes used to limit excessive sweating, and limit eyelid spasms and to treat migraines, along with a host of other uses.
When used to combat the signs of aging, a cosmetic dermatologist injects Botox directly into neuromuscular tissue. It can take 2-3 days to see the effects of the injections. Because it works by freezing muscle movement, Botox most successfully treats lines and wrinkles caused by facial expressions, or so-called smile or frown lines. Many professionals recommend Botox for eliminating or smoothing wrinkles on the forehead, between the eyebrows or for treating crow’s feet around the eyes. Botox treatments last 3-4 months, so its effects aren’t permanent.
Juvaderm
Juvaderm is a dermal filler. Juvaderm itself is a brand name, but there are a variety of dermal fillers designed to treat different cosmetic issues typically caused by aging. Like Botox, Juvaderm or other fillers are injected just beneath the skin to plump it, decreasing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
Fillers are commonly used for cosmetically plumping up thinning lips, boosting shallow areas of the face, and smoothing under eye wrinkles. The type of filler used can vary based on which of these things you’re hoping to accomplish. Some fillers include hyaluronic acid, polylactic acid, calcium hydroxlapatite or another agent.
Most fillers are similar to Botox in that they aren’t permanent. Most filler injections last between six months and up to two years.
Botox, Juvaderm or other cosmetic filler injections are relatively easy procedures that safely combat the effects of aging. Both decrease lines and wrinkles, but in different ways. Botox is generally a slightly more affordable option when priced as a single injection or procedure, but Botox typically requires more frequent treatments. The cost of fillers varies significantly based on which filler is used and how many injections are required. Working with your dermatologist, you can determine which procedure or combination of both is the perfect solution to help you accomplish your cosmetic goals.
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