Botox vs Fillers: Main Differences, Prices, Best Results, and More

• Botox injections are used to address and relax fine lines and wrinkles in the face.
• Dermal filler injections are used for plumping and smoothing areas of the face that have lost volume.
• Botox injections last about three to six months, while dermal filler injections last from six months to five years.
• Botox may be safely used in combination with hyaluronic acid dermal fillers to address multiple issues.

If you’re thinking about addressing issues on the face, such as fine lines, facial wrinkles, or areas that need extra volume, getting Botox or dermal filler treatments may be right for you. Both Botox and facial fillers are injectable cosmetic treatments that help to minimize the signs of aging on the face and restore a youthful appearance. 

What is Botox?

Botox is a neurotoxin called botulinum toxin which is injected into the face to correct crow’s feet and fine lines. This neurotoxin smooths and relaxes the facial muscles 

A Botox procedure is not surgical and is performed in an outpatient setting. It’s a quick procedure that can be performed within an hour. Botox injection procedures require no downtime before returning to your regular activities.

What is Botox used for?

Botox injections are mainly used around the mouth and eyes, on the neck, between the eyebrows and on the forehead. They reduce the appearance of fine lines and dynamic wrinkles, helping the skin to appear smoother and more youthful. Dynamic wrinkles are caused by facial expressions you repeat over and over, like smiling or squinting your eyes. 

Botox is sometimes used for other cosmetic purposes, like slimming the appearance of the face and softening a square jawline. This procedure is called a lower face reduction. Injections are placed 

How long do the results last?

It takes about a week before you can see significant results from Botox treatments. Results last as long as six months, but may begin gradually wearing off after three. Your practitioner will recommend how often they think you should have repeat treatments.

Cost of Botox

The cost of Botox depends on how many injections you have and which provider you choose. On average, each treatment costs between $350 and $500 per area, on average.

Botox is considered an elective, cosmetic procedure, so it isn’t covered by insurance. Talk to your provider about how you might be able to finance the procedure. Some providers offer low-interest financing options.

Side effects

Some possible side effects of Botox have been reported in association with the treatment. You’re likely to experience temporary pain and bruising at the site of the injections, but that is a typical response to any injection. 

It’s common and possible that you may experience drooling, a lopsided mouth, dry eye or eyelid drooping. Keep an eye on any side effects you may experience and let your provider know as soon as possible.

Other side effects of Botox include:

• Headache
• Swelling
• Numbness
• Redness
• Bleeding
• Itching
• Hives
• Rash
• Dry feeling in the mouth
• Muscle weakness or paralysis near injection site
• Nausea
• Symptoms similar to flu
• Gallbladder issues
• Trouble breathing, speaking, or swallowing
• Vision issues like blurring

To reduce the risk of adverse events, Botox is recommended only for people in good physical health. Your provider may ask you to use eye drops before your procedure to possibly reduce side effects. You may also need to stop taking blood-thinning medication beforehand to reduce the chances of severe bruising.

If you are pregnant, breast-feeding, have neuromuscular or skin issues, or have problems with your facial muscles, you may not be a good candidate for Botox injections. 

What are Fillers? 

Dermal fillers are another injectable, cosmetic treatment used to address static wrinkles and other visible signs of aging on the face. Injectable dermal fillers can help plump and add volume to areas of your face that are wrinkled or sagging. 

Dermal fillers are formulated with materials like: 

• Hyaluronic acid 
• Poly-L-Lactic acid
• Calcium hydroxylapatite (CaHA)
• Collagen
• Polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA)
• Fat injections

Many filler materials work by adding volume to the treatment areas. Others help to stimulate collagen production in addition to the filling effect of the injectable treatment. 

What are fillers used for? 

Dermal fillers are often used to augment the lips and cheeks, treat marionette lines, and add volume to areas of the face that are showing signs of aging. They are sometimes used to address scar tissue, as well as areas of the hands that have lost volume. 

How long do the results last?

Most dermal fillers last between six months and two years. PMMA fillers last for two to five years, and fat injections are considered to be permanent. Your provider may recommend that you repeat treatments every six to nine months to maintain results. 

Cost of fillers 

The cost of dermal fillers depends on factors such as your provider, the number of injections you’ll need, the filler materials used, your provider’s fees and your location.

• Hyaluronic acid injections cost about $400-1000 per treatment
• Poly-L-Lactic acid injections cost about $700-1000 per treatment
• Calcium hydroxylapatite (CaHA) injections cost about $650-800 per treatment 
• Collagen injections cost about $1,930 per treatment 
• Polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA) injections cost about $1,000 per treatment 
• Fat injections injections cost about $3000-6000 per treatment 

When planning your budget for dermal fillers, factor in possible follow-up treatment, as most dermal filler injections need to be repeated.

Side effects

Dermal filler injections are generally considered to be safe, but they still carry the risk of side effects. Most of the time, though, mild to moderate effects don’t usually last for longer than two weeks.

Potential side effects include: 

• Damage to the skin
• Skin infection
• Migration of the filler
• Scarring
• Rash
• Pustules
• Itching
• Numbness
• Skin redness
• Bruising
• Uneven distribution of the filler material
• Overcorrection
• Lumps under the skin
• Skin wounding
• Noticeable filler material under the skin
• Skin cell death in the area 
• Vision problems or blindness

If you experience side effects, talk to your healthcare provider as soon as possible. Before you get a dermal filler injection, have your practitioner patch-test your skin for a potential allergic reaction.

Should You Choose Botox or Fillers?  

Deciding whether to choose Botox or fillers depends on the specific skin issues you want to address. Your practitioner may recommend that you combine Botox injections and hyaluronic acid fillers for more dramatic results.

Main differences 

If you want to treat and relax deep wrinkles and lines, Botox is best for you. But if you want to plump areas of your face like your cheeks and lips, dermal fillers are a better choice. 

Takeaway

Botox and fillers are both considered safe, effective ways to address visible signs of aging in the face. Both types of injections help to restore a youthful appearance to the face, though they each address different concerns.

If you want to treat dynamic wrinkles like marionette lines, crow’s feet, and forehead wrinkles, Botox is an excellent choice for you. But if you need to treat static wrinkles and plump your lips, cheeks, or chin, dermal filler injections are a better choice. Both choices provide anti-aging effects.

When it comes to cost, keep in mind that multiple factors influence the cost of injectable cosmetic treatments, such as location, provider fees, and number of injections needed. Keep in mind that you will likely need follow-up treatments in the future.

Make sure you have a licensed provider with plenty of experience administering cosmetic injections before you book your procedure.

Most injectable cosmetic treatments are generally considered safe. If you experience the side effects of Botox vs. fillers, seek medical attention immediately.