For those who are unfamiliar with the world of plastic surgery and cosmetic procedures, one of their most common questions is “What is the difference between Restylane® and Botox®/Dysport®?.” The answer is: everything! Many people are under the misconception that the wrinkle removing injectables on the market are brand name variations of the same product; however this is far from the truth.
Restylane®, along with similar popular products Juvederm® and Perlane®, are what we call “injectable fillers”. These products consist of collagen, either natural collagen from animals, or Hyaluronic Acid (HA), the same component found naturally in human collagen.
Once injected into the problem areas, the collagen or HA “fills in” wrinkles, lines, and furrows in the face to give the face a smoother and more youthful overall look. Injectable fillers vary depending on the whether they are an HA filler or depending on the type of collagen used, however the average injectable filler lasts around 6 months. Unlike Botox® and Dysport®, most injectable fillers can also be used on the lips, for a fuller, plumper look.
Botox®, and newer variation Dysport®, are cosmetic injectables made up a purified form of the toxin botulinum. Unlike injectable fillers that use a substance to “fill in” wrinkles, the substance found Botox® and Dysport® works to relax facial muscles. By blocking the release of acetylcholine, a chemical which transmits nerve signals to contract the muscles, these injectables inactivate or weaken the facial muscles that produce the lines on your face – resulting in a smoother, younger look. Because the muscles in the face are relaxed, Botox® and Dysport® injections prevent new wrinkles from forming or deepening further. Botox® and Dysport® last about 3-4 months on average. And although these products would be useless for the lips, Botox® is also FDA approved for excessive sweating and treatment of neck and muscle spasms.
In short, fillers like Restylane® and Juvederm® use collagen or a collagen-like substance to fill-in and smooth out wrinkles. Botox® and Dysport® relax facial muscles, that ultimately smooth out wrinkles and prevent wrinkles from deepening further. Dr. Whiteman performs both types of injections and can tell you which product will be the best treatment for you. Schedule a consultation or call our office to find out more information.