Injectables are not just some of the most popular treatments at Bespoke Rx, they are some of the most popular treatments in the world. Results range from refreshing “tweakments” to the comprehensive rejuvenation of a liquid facelift — all with less time, discomfort, risk and expense than plastic surgery.
We often see patients who are curious about injectables but don’t know where to start. Whether you understand the basics of the different types of injectables from your initial research, or you are a complete beginner, we are here to help you decide which treatment is right for you.
We present our ultimate injectables showdown:
Botox vs. fillers vs. Kybella
What Does It Do?
There are three main categories of injectables.
Wrinkle-relaxers (a.k.a. neurotoxins or neuromodulators) temporarily weaken the muscles that cause dynamic wrinkles. The most well-known name in this category is Botox, but other options include Dysport, Xeomin and Jeuveau.
Dermal fillers sit under the skin to provide support, volume or contouring in the injected area. Popular brands include Restylane, Juvéderm and Revanesse. Biostimulatory fillers, which work by stimulating collagen production, are a subgroup within this category.
The final category is fat-dissolving injections. To date, Kybella is the only product of this kind. It works by breaking down fat cells so they can be disposed of by the body’s natural waste elimination processes.
What Is It Made Of?
Whether you choose Botox, Dysport or any other neuromodulator, the active ingredient is a highly purified form of botulinum toxin type A. It works by temporarily inhibiting the signals that tell the muscles to contract. In the absence of those signals, the muscles stay relaxed, and the skin above them does not crease.
Dermal fillers come in a range of formulations. The most common fillers contain hyaluronic acid, a naturally-occurring ingredient that attracts water to volumize the skin from within. Biostimulatory fillers contain different primary ingredients depending on the brand. Examples include calcium hydroxylapatite (Radiesse), poly-L-lactic acid (Sculptra) and polymethyl methacrylate (Bellafill).
Kybella’s active ingredient is synthetic deoxycholic acid. Its natural form is found in the human body, where it aids in the breakdown and absorption of dietary fat.
Where Is It Used?
Botox is most commonly used in areas of facial expression, especially the horizontal forehead lines, vertical ‘11s’ between the eyebrows and crow's feet. Beyond wrinkles, its many cosmetic uses include elevating the brows, enhancing the upper lip and facial slimming. The medical applications of Botox include managing migraines, reducing the symptoms of TMJ and treating excessive sweating.
Fillers are incredibly versatile. As an anti-aging treatment, we use them to soften facial creases, restore volume to the temples and tear troughs, and rejuvenate the hands. They are also a popular choice for lip augmentation, cheek enhancement, jawline contouring and nonsurgical rhinoplasty.
Kybella has one FDA-approved application: treating moderate to severe fat below the chin (submental fat), also called a double chin.
What Is the Procedure Like?
The basic steps of any injectable treatment are alike. First, your provider performs a consultation to assess your areas of concern and understand your goals. Once you are on the same page about the procedure, your provider cleanses your skin and identifies the optimal injection sites. Your provider then uses a fine needle or cannula to administer the product.
While you will feel a pinch from the injection, most patients find that these treatments are not overly uncomfortable. We can discuss options for pain management if desired. Patients often find Botox is the most comfortable of these treatments, followed by dermal fillers and then Kybella.
Appointment times vary depending on your goals and the extent of treatment. Some treatments take as little as 15 minutes, while others can extend up to an hour.
What Is the Typical Downtime?
All of these injectables are low-to-no downtime procedures. For Botox and fillers, side effects are typically mild and resolve within a few days. Kybella has the most downtime due to the swelling that occurs post-procedure.
Whichever treatment you choose, our team will ensure you are thoroughly informed of what to expect afterward and what you can do to make your recovery as smooth as possible.
When Are Results Visible?
Botox patients can start to see results as early as three to five days after treatment. It can take up to two weeks for it to reach its full effect. Some people feel Dysport produces results faster than Botox.
Dermal fillers produce results right away. As soon as the filler is injected, it adds volume and shape to the area. It can take a couple of weeks for the product to integrate fully into the tissues. With biostimulatory fillers, results appear gradually over the weeks following injection.
Kybella starts taking effect once injected, but the results are not immediately noticeable. The body needs several weeks to flush out the treated fat cells. Typically, final results are visible after four to six weeks.
How Long Does It Last?
Botox and fillers are temporary treatments. They require ongoing maintenance to sustain results indefinitely.
Botox lasts three to four months on average. Normal muscle movement returns when the product wears off. Some people find that their results last longer after they have been getting Botox for a while, so they can space their treatments farther apart. It is not possible to reverse Botox injections.
Dermal fillers can last anywhere from six to 18 months, depending on what type of filler is used and where it is injected. Hyaluronic acid-based fillers can be reversed with an enzyme injection if desired. Biostimulatory fillers can last up to two years.
Kybella is permanent. The fat cells that are eliminated will not come back. However, Kybella is not a substitute for diet and exercise. Maintaining the best results requires a healthy lifestyle.
Who Can Inject It?
Here is one thing all injectables have in common: they must be administered by a reputable practitioner. By this, we mean someone who is properly trained and certified, who has experience performing the treatment, and who makes your safety and goals their priority.
At Bespoke Rx, your provider will work closely with you on a one-on-one basis, creating a customized treatment plan and an ongoing dialogue that centers around your long-term cosmetic goals and overall well-being. We call this the Bespoke Experience.
Meet Tampa’s Injectable Experts at Bespoke Rx
There is more to injectables than meets the eye. For a knowledgeable consultation about your options for Botox and Dysport, fillers or Kybella in Tampa, FL, request an appointment with Amanda Conti NP. Amanda and the rest of the Bespoke Rx team are committed to providing personalized treatments that deliver natural-looking results.
