Different types of fillers or injections are made from different ingredients. They are also designed to treat different wrinkles or various signs of facial aging. While the results provided by Botox differ from the results provided by Juvederm, you might be wondering if the results provided by fillers made from the same substance would be considerably different.
Since it almost seems as though a new injectable is popping up on the market every month, knowing which brand or type is best for you might be challenging. There are some subtle differences between each brand, which can affect your decision when you are considering fillers or injectables.
Hyaluronic Acid Fillers
Hyaluronic acid might seem to be the go-to ingredient of choice for the makers of many dermal fillers. A number of fillers use the sugar (it’s not really an acid) as their main ingredient. You’ll find it in Juvederm, Belotero, Restylane, Perlane and Juvederm Voluma XC. The major difference between each brand of injectable is the thickness or consistency of the hyaluronic acid and the length of time the results last.
You can divide hyaluronic acid fillers into two main categories: thick and thin. Thinner fillers, such as Belotero, Restylane and Juvederm, are designed to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, usually near the mouth and nose. In some cases, the fillers can also be used to reduce hollowness under the eyes.
Thicker fillers, such as Perlane and Juvederm Voluma, tend to focus on restoring lost volume to the face, such as in the area of the cheeks. Thick hyaluronic acid fillers might also be better suited for filling in deeper wrinkles on the face. As you might have guessed, both Juvederm and Juvederm Voluma are made by the same company. Perlane is made by the company that also makes Restylane.
Two of the biggest differences between Belotero, Juvederm and Restylane is how long each filler lasts and the texture of the filler. The results from Belotero or Restylane typically last between six and nine months. The results from an injection of Juvederm can last up to a year.
In terms of texture, Juvederm tends to be smooth while Restylane tends to be grainy. The softness of Belotero is subtly different from the texture of either Restylane or Juvederm, often making it an ideal filler for under the eyes or for other areas of the face that are very delicate.
Botox vs. Dysport
While injectables made from hyaluronic acid fill in areas of the face, injectables made from botulinum toxin interfere with nerve signals, keeping certain facial muscles from moving and creating lines. As with hyaluronic acid fillers, you have options when it comes to injectables that use botulinum toxin, namely Botox and Dysport. Xeomin is another option.
Dysport and Botox have some similarities. They are both FDA-approved for treating specific facial wrinkles, such as the frown lines between the eyebrows. They both last for about the same amount of time, between 3 and 6 months, though some might argue that Dysport’s results can last for less time.
The big differences between the brands are found in unit size and in how much the substances spread once injected. Dysport tends to spread more than Botox. Depending on the skill level of the injector, the greater diffusion can be a blessing or a curse. If the injector doesn’t position the injection correctly, the greater spread can lead to more side effects, specifically droopy eyelids. But, the greater diffusion can also mean that a skilled injector can get the same results using less of the product.
Unit size also differs between the two brands. If a patient decides to receive Botox, for example, she might receive 20 units in the forehead area. But, if that same patient picks Dysport, she might get 60 units in the same area. Botox units tend to cost more, but the prices often end up equally out in the end, since a patient needs less of them.
How to Choose
Figuring out which injectable brand is right for you involves finding an injector is who trained and experienced in a variety of injections. In Virginia and Maryland, Dr. Jessica Kulak offers a variety of options to her patients. She’s also an aging face specialist, meaning she centers her practice on offering treatments and solutions for the signs of aging. If you are concerned about lines and wrinkles on your face and are looking for a non-surgical option, contact Dr. Kulak’s practice for a consultation today. Call 703-481-0002 for an appointment at the Naderi Center in Virginia or 301-222-2020 for an appointment at the practice in Maryland.
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