There are a lot of myths when it comes to Botox and cosmetic fillers, so how do you know what to believe?
Botox treatments and cosmetic fillers are not a new idea by any means but many people still have some common misconceptions about their use. They are both used to enhance one’s appearance, but work in two very different ways. Over the years, many myths have been mixed in with facts and led to a lot of confusion that can be erased once the facts are understood. Here are some of the most common myths about Botox and cosmetic fillers.
Myth 1: Botox and Cosmetic Fillers do the same thing
False! Botox treatments and cosmetic fillers are both used for treating the signs of aging, but they do not do the same thing. Botox injections are used in areas where there is a lot of muscle movement that causes wrinkling. The injections are placed to temporarily relax the muscles so that the facial appearance has a more rested look and appears less wrinkled. Cosmetic fillers on the other hand, fill in gaps or areas on the face that have sunken in due to aging. Classic areas for fillers are cheeks, nasolabial folds, jowls, and marionette lines. Fillers can be used to plump up lips and cheekbones or to ease wrinkles as well.
Myth 2: I will look “plastic” or unnatural after Botox and Fillers
A big misconception with many patients new to aesthetic injectables is that the facial appearance will suddenly appear unnatural, plastic, or I hate to say it, like some people you see on TV. Our office customizes each treatment to the patient and his or her needs. Our philosophy is, “we can always do more later.” Meaning, a conservative step-by-step approach often yields the best results that enhance your facial attributes and shave years off without changing who they are. Many of our patients are pleasantly surprised after the treatments!
Myth 3: Botox and Fillers are only for Hollywood Stars
Most of our patients are normal, average people who just want to reverse some of those changes that aging brings about, such as wrinkles and creases. Believe it or not, our average patient who undergoes these treatments does it for a variety of reasons, but the most common being that the perception others get from some of the aging changes occurring misrepresent the emotional status of the patient. For instance, frown lines and marionette lines can make a happy and content person appear angry or frustrated. Drooping brows, deep tear troughs, and crow’s feet not only make one look tired and exhausted, but they are early tell-tale signs of aging. Simply put, it is important for one’s outward appearance to match their inward feelings; aging can misconstrue that congruity.
Myth 4: Injectible fillers and Botox are painful procedures
Although these procedures involve needles, the actual discomfort experienced is often minimal according to most of our patients. In order to increase comfort and minimize any pain, our office applies a numbing agent as well as ice packs prior to the injection of fillers. Botox however is injected using a tiny insulin syringe and pain is rarely experienced.
Myth 5: Botox makes you look emotionless
When Botox is administered correctly by a qualified, licensed professional the results should be a natural youthful appearance. The face will still be able to show emotions and expressions in a natural way. It will work to diminish some movements such as the furrowed brow that occurs when one is angry or upset, as well as soften deep forehead wrinkles and crow’s feet. One’s facial expressions are a key way of non-verbal communication and therefore we hold that to a high priority when dosing patients accurately.
Myth 6: A patient should be able to choose their own filler
Marketing is a wonderful thing and often I have patient’s who know exactly the type or brand of filler they want. However, a physician from a core aesthetic specialty, such as Ophthalmology, should be able to decipher which filler will correct your problem areas best. He or she should balance cost, effectiveness, and side effects when deciding on which filler to use. Fillers come in all different sizes, and viscosities, which means that different fillers work better in some areas compared to others. Furthermore, the physician should be able to tell you why he or she is using the particular filler and why it is the best choice for your concerns.
Myth 7: All Botox brands are created equal
We’ve all heard, or even said, the expression, “I had such a terrible headache, I had to take Tylenol.” Now, did the person actually take brand name Tylenol, or was it a generic? The fact remains, the word Tylenol extends a generic concept to the medication, Acetaminophen, more than the generic name itself! Botulinum Toxin is very similar. The first, and most premiere, manufacturer of the medication was Allergan, branding the product as Botox Cosmetic. In this case, the brand can matter! Botox Cosmetic has been used more widely, has less side effects, is a less painful injection, and lasts longer than other competitors on the market, such as Dysport and Xeomin. So next time you see an advertisement for Botox, you should wonder whether they are actually using Botox Cosmetic or just another form of Botulinum Toxin! As with all cosmetic medical procedures, educate yourself!
Myth 8: I can’t afford Botox or Fillers
Everyone has a budget, no matter how large or small. With that said, many people assume that Botox or Fillers are unaffordable. Many offices, especially ours, will often run specials on authentic, brand name products throughout the year. Pricing during these times make the investment much more affordable. Some patients save five to 10 dollars throughout the month and have enough for the treatment every three to four months for Botox. No interest payment plans for six to twelve months on a program called CareCredit break the cumulative price of the procedure into small equal monthly payments! Lastly, becoming a member of Brilliant Distinctions Program allows patients to accumulate points each time Botox or Filler is purchased; these points in turn can be used for dollars off your next purchase!
