profile md logo blue
Search
Close this search box.

Medi-Spa

Botox & Fillers

For many, the idea of cosmetic surgery or laser treatment feels extreme and raises issues of anesthesia and recovery. Thankfully there are many options now available which are simple, safe and effective. Two of the most common treatments used by aesthetic providers are neuromodulators and dermal fillers.

About Neuromodulators

Let’s talk about the neuromodulators first! This group of products are commonly known by their trade names such as Botox, Dysport, Jeuveau and Xeomin. Neuromodulator is a big word for a treatment that is actually quite simple. Neuromodulators are small injections which help to relax wrinkles in the face and neck. These products are particularly good at improving wrinkles around the eyes, forehead and even those stubborn “11’s” in between the brow.

Treatment with a neuromodulator typically takes 15 minutes and results appear in soon as 2-3 days. The treatment does not require any anesthesia and patients can resume normal activities the following day. Neuromodulators typically last between 4-5 months.

The number of units to be used is based on two important things. First, our providers will discuss your desired outcome prior to treatment. Some patients prefer to have some residual movement in the treatment areas, while other want as little movement as possible. During your consultation, our providers will discuss expected outcomes and goals with you. Second is the muscle strength! The stronger the muscle and deeper the wrinkle, the more units will be needed to achieve a smooth result.

All four of the neuromodulators currently available are derivations of Botulinum toxin type A, often referred to BoNT. Each product has a small difference (proteins added during production) in the base structure which can account for the subtle differences patients may experience. For example, Dysport tends to set up slightly faster than other products, and Xeomin boasts being the most-pure neuromodulator. Whichever product you choose, be confident knowing that all four of the neuromodulators are FDA approved for safety.

About Dermal Fillers

Whereas neuromodulators work to relax wrinkles caused by repeated movement, fillers are best suited to restore and improve volume, enhance facial features and hydrate the skin. Just like their neuromodulator counterparts, there are numerous options to choose from. These products include products such as Juvederm, Restylane and Radiesse. Newer products such as RH and Versa are also very popular.

Dermal fillers are injected below or into the skin using tiny needles or cannulas. These products work immediately to help improve the look of everything from lip stick lines and nasolabial folds, to strengthening the jawline and lifting the cheek and midface. Fillers can even help improve the profile of nose as part of a non-surgical rhinoplasty!

There is truly a dizzying number of fillers available. Most fillers are composed of hyaluronic acid, a substance naturally produced by the body. These products include Juvederm, Restylane, RH and Versa. Let’s talk about these first. Skin thickness and facial anatomy vary from area to area. For instance, the skin under the eye is some of the thinnest in the body, while the skin of the cheek is much thicker. Some areas, such as the lips, are constantly moving, while others like the temples are stationary. For these reasons, each of the hyaluronic products have subset products. The Juvederm family includes products like Juvederm Voluma for building cheek volume and Juvederm Volbella for fine lines around the lips! The Restylane family includes products like Restylane Kysse made specifically for the lips and Restylane Defyne for nasolabial folds. RHA Redensity is super thin and is the perfect option to help eliminate those stubborn “smoker’s lines” around the mouth. Each of these products is slightly different in molecule size and flexibility to provide the perfect result based on the area being treated.

Two other fillers offer our clients unique benefits. Sculptra is a product which is often grouped under the filler heading. Like the hyaluronic acid fillers, Sculptra is placed under the skin. However, Sculptra works very differently than traditional fillers. This product is a biostimulator. This is fancy word that mean Sculptra works with your body to restore volume. Sculptra’s results are not instant and are best seen with a series of treatments over time. One distinct advantage is that Sculptra provides a gradual result that can be used for full face restoration.

Radiesse is a filler made with calcium hydroxylapatite (CaHA). This is a thicker filler and makes it a great option for the jawline and hands. Like the HA fillers, Radiesse provides an immediate result which can last upwards of 12-15 months. Additionally, Radiesse has also been shown to stimulate collagen and elastin production, giving an additional benefit not seen with the HA fillers.

Filler duration depends on the specific product used as well as the patient’s metabolism. Thinner fillers such as Juvaderm Vollure, Restylane Silk or Versa Lips will typically last 10-12 months. Thicker products such as Juvederm Voluma, Restylane Lyft or RH4 can last up to 2 years!

Neuromodulators and dermal fillers are a perfect pair! They each help to restore a youthful appearance and enhance natural features in a unique way. The combination is synergistic when done together.

EXPERIENCE MATTERS

FREE CONSULTATION

With years of medical experience our doctors, Dr. Jared Mallalieu and Dr. Ross VanAntwerp, specialize in bringing out the best in people through our unique laser and cosmetic procedures. Get in touch with us for your free, no-obligation consultation.

Our Next Injectable Thursday event will be

SEPT 14th

Get a DISCOUNT of $2 OFF per unit of Botox, Dysport or Jeuveau!

*Appointments required.
Call to reserve your spot.