10/12/2025
Dermal Fillers vs. Botulinum Toxin
1. Purpose & Treatment Action
Dermal Fillers
• Replace or add volume.
• Improve facial contours (cheeks, jawline, chin).
• Soften deep folds (nasolabial folds, marionette lines).
• Can enhance lips.
• Results come from physical volume placed under the skin.
Botulinum Toxin
• Relaxes targeted muscles.
• Softens dynamic wrinkles (frown lines, forehead lines, crow’s feet).
• Prevents worsening of expression lines.
• Results come from temporary muscle relaxation, not adding volume.
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2. Onset & Duration
Dermal Fillers
• Results: Immediate, refine over 1–2 weeks.
• Duration: 6–18 months depending on area, product, and metabolism.
Botulinum Toxin
• Results: Start at 3–5 days, peak at 10–14 days.
• Duration: 3–4 months for most patients.
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3. Patient Experience & Expectations
Dermal Fillers – What Patients Should Expect
• Immediate improvement but some asymmetry or swelling is normal during healing.
• Final results may require 2–4 week settling time.
• Often involves layering treatments over time for optimal contour.
• Bruising and swelling are more common than with toxin.
Botulinum Toxin – What Patients Should Expect
• Movement does not stop instantly—results build gradually.
• Goal is softening, not freezing (unless patient specifically requests minimal movement).
• A 2-week refinement appointment is normal.
• Does not fill hollows or lift tissues significantly.
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