Botox vs. Juvederm: What’s the Difference?

UYnpLcqs1X1hOs9xKfTgyUvfyZITrVEDp6Y23c0HOgsInjectable treatments have become an attractive way to turn back the clock quickly and without downtime. As their popularity increases, so do the choices in formulations to achieve a wide range of anti-aging goals. Two of the most requested injectable treatments today are Botox and Juvederm. How do you know which formula is the right choice for you?

Botox and Dysport: 

Botox and Dysport fall into the category of neuromodulators, which work by relaxing facial muscles that lead to the formation of some types of facial wrinkles. The FDA approves their use for treatment of vertical lines between the eyebrows (frown lines or “11’s”).  However, they are also used “off-label” to treat:

  • Horizontal lines across the forehead
  • Fine lines in the outer corners of the eyes (crow’s feet)

There are some schools of thought that believe there is a preventative effect when Botox or Dysport treatments begin in the younger years before wrinkles become pronounced.  Neuromodulators are also used for medicinal purposes such as treating uncontrollable eye twitching and excessive sweating.

Juvederm and Restylane: A Soft Tissue Filler

Juvederm is one of many soft tissue fillers on the market today. These products work by supporting the underlying skin structure, smoothing away lines and wrinkles from the inside out. Soft tissue fillers are used to treat the following concerns:

  • Lines that run from the nose to the corners of the mouth (nasolabial folds)
  • Creases that extend from the corners of the mouth to the chin (marionette lines)
  • Small creases in the corner of the mouth (smile lines)
  • Fine vertical lines that appear above the upper lip (smoker’s lines)

In addition, soft tissue fillers like Perlane and Voluma can also be used to restore volume to areas of the face like the cheeks and jawline, for a more youthful facial profile. Voluma and Perlane are particularly suited to this purpose, with a smooth and thicker formulation designed for treating larger areas.

All of these products are made up of hyaluronic acid, the same substance naturally produced by the skin. As we age, we produce less hyaluronic acid, leading to sagging skin and the formation of wrinkles. By restoring hyaluronic acid to the underlying skin structure, a smoother, more youthful appearance can be achieved.

Results

Neuromodulators offer best results on dynamic wrinkles i.e. lines that appear when certain facial expressions are made. In contrast,  Fillers to work better on static wrinkles, which are creases not as a result of muscle movement. Neuromodulator results tend to last 3-4 months, while Juvederm results can last up to one year for some patients.

Dr. Burke Robinson offers a choice between Neuromodulators and Filler injections at his Atlanta-area offices and works with patients to help them determine which treatment will meet their needs best. To learn more about injectable cosmetic treatments, contact Robinson Facial Plastic Surgery at 770-667-3090.