By Jerome Edelstein, MD
When we think about non-surgical cosmetic treatments for the face and injectable treatments, in particular, it may not be clear what the difference is between fillers and Botox, neuromodulator or Hyaluronic acid. Botox and dermal fillers are different and they accomplish different things but they work very well together.
Botulinum toxin is a natural, purified protein, also referred to as a neuromodulator, and is used to temporarily weaken specific facial muscles which cause lines and wrinkles. Other brands of neuromodulators are Xeomin and Dysport. These powerful medications aren’t new and are among the most researched and trialed medications on the market. Botox is approved for many other non-cosmetic uses including hyperhidrosis (excessive sweating). Botox treatment must be overseen by a medical doctor.
Slight swelling and occasional bruising are possible after Botox treatment so be sure that you avoid known blood thinners such as Aspirin and Ibuprofen as well as certain supplements, 2 weeks prior to your appointment. There is no downtime and many people are able to return to work right after treatment without any visible signs. You will be advised to not apply direct pressure after your treatment. For about 8 hours, avoid extreme head, such as a sauna, and exercise.
BOTOX TREATMENT
Botox treatment in Toronto is suitable for a wide range of ages and both men and women love the subtle lift and softening to their features. Botox administration is precise and you do not need to “freeze” your features or lack any expression when done. Talk to your injector about the specific problem areas you wish to address.Often people know that they appear tired or angry, but they aren’t sure why. A skilled injector can help you target the specific muscles causing this with Botox. If you have dynamic forehead lines, crow’s feet, a furrow between the brows or other muscle movement related wrinkles, find out what Botox could do for you. The effects from this treatment last 4 months on average and with regular upkeep, the amount required for effective softening will be less over time as muscles weaken.
Cosmetic dermal fillers are designed to add volume where needed. Our skin’s natural collagen and elastin diminish as we age and fat pads in the face shrink as well. This can result in hollows under the eyes, flatter cheeks, sagging skin and thinner lips. Deep lines appear in areas such as the marionette lines, laugh lines and smoker’s lines around the mouth. Hyaluronic acid is a polysaccharide found naturally in the skin and our connective tissue.
Hyaluronic acid is hydrophilic – drawing water into itself and binding it to form a viscous substance which assists in hydration and skin elasticity. As our skin ages, it loses hyaluronic acid, becomes increasingly dehydrated and more prone to wrinkling. HA dermal fillers are crosslinked to maintain stability and resist the body’s natural metabolism. This way they can hold form and stay in place for 6 months or more. Your treatment may last 6 months to 1 year depending on the type of filler used and your body’s metabolism of the product. Toronto dermal filler treatment will usually involve injecting the HA filler through a small needle or soft, blunt tip cannula – depending on the facial area and technique used. Your Injector may apply a topical numbing cream to the treatment area and ice can be applied after. Discomfort is usually minimal and bruising is rare however avoiding blood thinners for two weeks prior is a good idea. Treatment can be quick – 15-30 minutes for single areas.
A “soft lift” or more extensive treatment session involving Botox injections and various fillers in multiple areas will provide a dramatic, transformative effect. This type of holistic treatment can give an overall lifted and softened appearance, taking years off of the look of a person’s appearance.
In Toronto, fillers and Botox represent an easy, non-surgical and minimally invasive approach to facial rejuvenation. The costs vary between $500-$1000 per syringe of filler, and $10-$15 per unit of Botox. This means that clients can gradually boost and beautify their appearance at their own pace, without downtime. The effects are ideally built up over time, touched up when needed, and always natural looking.