How Botox and Juvederm Compare? By Peter Brownrigg on July 07, 2015

Botox Is an Injectable Neurotoxin

Since its FDA approval and introduction in 2002,Botoxhas become a household name synonymous with anti-aging. It is one of the many versions of neurotoxins that are safe for injection into the human body. Although the name sounds a little frightening, Botox itself is quite harmless, providing only temporary effects against wrinkles and virtually no long-term side effects. While similar injectable treatments are also on the market, Botox remains a top choice among patients and a preferred option among facial plastic surgeons.

Botox works by relaxing or paralyzing the muscles of the treatment area but only temporarily, usually around four to six months. It does this by blocking the release of substances from the nerves that tell the muscles to move. The solution is injected directly into the muscles beneath the lines and wrinkles being treated. Once the muscle begins to relax, which happens almost instantly, these lines will start to fade and diminish in appearance. With the muscles not moving, present lines will be less visible and new lines will be prevented from forming. When performed correctly and administered in small quantities, Botox is completely safe for facial treatment. To ensure your safety during treatment, work only with a board certified facial plastic surgeon for your treatments

Juvederm Is a Hyaluronic Acid Facial Filler

Although there are many varieties of facial filler available to patients today, Juvederm and its various formulas rank highly on the list of popular choices. Juvederm is one of the hyaluronic acid fillers, so it is soft and smooth in texture, effective at creating facial volume, ideal as an all-purpose filler, and very long-lasting, with some patients reporting results up to one year after treatment. Hyaluronic acid is a natural protein found in the skin, so Juvederm is completely biocompatible and comes with very low risk of complications or allergic reactions.

All facial fillers share the same goal: to reduce the appearance of wrinkles and add volume where it has been lost. Juvederm, as an all-purpose filler, can treat frown lines, smile lines, Crow’s Feet, the nasolabial folds and more. It can also add volume to the lips, forehead, cheeks and chin. Some patients may opt for nonsurgical alternatives to other procedures using Juvederm, such as a nonsurgical rhinoplasty or nonsurgical brow lift. The facial filler procedure is a straightforward one, very similar in nature to a Botox injection. The filler will be injected as needed to these areas, providing a plumper look and diminishing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. The entire procedure lasts about 20 to 30 minutes, depending on the number of treatment areas. You should see some immediate results following your procedure, with full results visible within a few days. Some redness, irritation and swelling around the injection site are normal and will fade with time.