Fine lines and wrinkles are a natural part of aging. But if you are bothered by the appearance of wrinkles,there are several ways to go about rejuvenating your face. Botox and fillers are currently some of the most common anti-aging treatments in the plastic surgery industry.

Many patients considering getting Botox and dermal fillers are already aware of the benefits of injectables. Some admit finding it a little confusing when it comes to differentiating the uses of each treatment option.
What they don’t know is that Botox and fillers can be combined to create a full spectrum anti-aging treatment for the face. Well,it’s a relatively new innovative treatment,but it is becoming increasingly popular.

BOTOX VS. FILLERS: WHAT’S THE DIFFERENCE IN USES?

BOTOX

Botox is a Botulinum toxin protein in a purified form which,when injected into the facial skin,relaxes the muscles in the target area. It is an ideal treatment option for correcting dynamic wrinkles,which are commonly known as expression lines. Dynamic wrinkles occur due to muscle movement.

Botox works best on wrinkles lines on the upper face points where muscles contract,such as:
· Crow’s feet around the eyes
· 1s’ between the brows
· Horizontal forehead lines

Botulinum toxin is not the only neurotoxin used in anti-aging treatment. There other three FDA-approved neurotoxins: Xeomin,Dysport,and Jeauveau.

DERMAL FILLERS

Fillers are also injected into the skin to treat wrinkles on the face. However,they work on different lines — lip lines,laugh lines and sleep wrinkles. If you need a nose or sunken check correction,the surgeon will also recommend fillers.
As the name suggests,fillers are used to add volume and fullness. They can reduce the static wrinkle lines that are visible when facial muscles relax.

There are a variety of FDA-approved temporary and permanent filler materials,including:
· Hyaluronic acid
· Calcium hydroxylapatite (Radiesse)
· Poly-L-lactic acid
· Polymethylmethacrylate

However,hyaluronic acid (HA) and calcium hydroxylapatite (CaHA) fillers are the most commonly used. These soft tissue fillers come in different types of thickness. Therefore,you wouldn’t have trouble finding the right one for your skin type.
Your body produces hyaluronic acid. The main function of this naturally occurring polysaccharide is to keep tissues well lubricated. The skin,eyes,and connective tissues have the most amount of hyaluronic acid,although it gets depleted by the aging process. So,injecting HA beneath the surface of the skin can help the cell to hold and retain more water,thus improving skin elasticity.
Calcium hydroxylapatite is also a naturally occurring substance. When used in skincare,it augments the soft tissues and stimulates the production of collagen. It is recommended for deep filling.

HOW LONG DO BOTOX AND HYALURONIC ACID FILLERS LAST?

The effects of Botox and hyaluronic acid fillers wear off because the body naturally degrades these products. Generally,Botox effects last anywhere between 3 and 6 months. Hyaluronic acid fillers,on the other hand,lose effectiveness after 6 to 12 months.
The lifespan of fillers usually depends on the properties of hyaluronic acid filler,treatment area,and movement of the neighboring muscles. With Botox injections,factors like the amount of Botox injected,area of injection,age,skin elasticity,and wrinkle depth can affect the efficacy.
Fortunately,by combining Botox and hyaluronic acid fillers,patients can enjoy longer-lasting facial lift.

BOTOX AND FILLER COMBINATION TREATMENT

As you can see this far,Botox and fillers are made of different substances that affect the body differently. Combined treatment might be a good option if a patient is looking to address multiple facial features for a more natural appearance. Enjoying fewer visits to the surgeon and long-lasting results is music to any patient’s ears.
EXPERIMENT ON BOTOX AND HA FILLER COMBINATION
According to the research study published in the medical journal of the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS),administering Botox and hyaluronic acid improves the lifespan of HA fillers.
Dr. Ismail Küçüker and his colleagues behind this research found that combining the treatment slowed the degradation of fillers by reducing muscle movement in the treated area.
Part of the study involved injecting hyaluronic acid filler beneath the skin in front of one ear. On the other side,the researchers injected Botox and HA filler. After monitoring the progress for three months,they conducted MRI scans on both sides.
The scans revealed a significant difference in the rate of filler degradation. Combined treatment decreased the degradation rate by 42 percent. The area had 50 percent more HA filler amount than the side where the researchers injected filler only.

SIDE EFFECTS

Medical procedures come with risks. Botox and HA fillers are not an exception. It’s normal to experience bruises and pain at the Botox injection site. Some people complain about headaches. You know something is wrong if you experience drooping eyelids,eye dryness,or a crooked smile.
HA fillers can cause bruising,itching,redness,numbness,allergic reaction,and swelling. But these side effects usually go away within two weeks. Improper filler injections can lead to the Tyndall effect and bumps beneath your skin.
A qualified and experienced doctor can help you avoid severe effects. If you suspect something is not right after treatment,it’s a good idea to contact a board-certified plastic surgeon right away.

WHO IS AN IDEAL CANDIDATE FOR BOTOX AND FILLERS?

Suitability is determined on a case-by-case basis. You should schedule a consultation with a certified plastic surgeon to carefully evaluate your unique face-lifting needs.
Generally,though,the ideal candidate for Botox and fillers should be in overall good health and have realistic expectations. These treatment options are discouraged if you:
· Smoke
· Are pregnant or breastfeeding
· Are allergic to the ingredients used in Botox or related products
· Have a skin infection around the area of injection
· Have a muscle or nerve condition like myasthenia gravis or amyotrophic lateral sclerosis

WHAT TO DO AFTER BOTOX AND FILLER INJECTIONS

After treatment,the doctor will recommend a list of things to observe to ensure you are maintaining good skin health. Don’t expect completely new skincare ideas.
Some of the tips to keep your skin healthy include,but not limited to:
· Limiting your sun exposure by wearing sunscreen,a hat,and sunglasses
· Drinking enough water every day
· Using gentle skin cleansers
· Using a hydrating moisturizer recommended for your specific skin type
· Eating foods that keep your skin healthy

The Takeaway

While combining injectable dermal fillers with Botox is safe,the procedure requires the skills and experience of a board-certified plastic surgeon or dermatologist for better results. We cannot emphasize this enough. Contact us today or visit our offices to discuss your aesthetic goals and needs.

To learn more about anti-aging treatments utilizing Botox and fillers,visit Belle Ame Medical Spa

Link to the research study
https://www.plasticsurgery.org/news/press-releases/with-botox-chemodenervation-dermal-fillers-last-longer

Dealing with anxiety can really be difficult. Some people with anxiety disorder can experience symptoms that may already affect their quality of life and prevent them from functioning normally. 

Emotional symptoms of anxiety can appear as excessive worrying, fatigue, panic attacks, poor concentration, insomnia, or irritability. On the other hand, physical symptoms may appear as extreme chest pains, headaches, diarrhea, muscle aches, sweating or shortness of breath.

If you are experiencing most of these symptoms, you may be experiencing anxiety. The best solution for this is to get checked by professionals. But, if you find yourself experiencing these symptoms, it is also helpful to remember the following coping mechanisms to ease anxiety:

1. Be physically active

One of the easiest hacks to feel better is to exercise. When you work out, you provide a jolt to the brain’s reward centers—the system of the brain that helps you anticipate pleasure, feel motivated, and maintain hope. When you work out regularly, the brain remodels the reward system, leading to higher circulating levels of dopamine, or called the happy hormones.

2. Quit alcohol, drugs, and cigarettes

These three things might give you the feeling of relief for a short time, but these may actually worsen your anxiety. If stopping using these substances are hard for you, it is probably best to reach out to support groups or therapies like with Everyday Empathy

3. Do relaxation and stress management techniques

When the brain is filled with negative thoughts, doing yoga or meditation techniques can effectively help ease anxiety. Meditation, visualization, and focusing on breathing can help with letting go of feeling of worry and fear.

4. Eat healthy foods

Remember the saying, “you are what you eat”? Well, it is true because what you eat can be the reason for your mood. According to research, a healthy diet that includes vegetables, fruits, whole grains, and fish may be linked to reduced anxiety and depression.

Another quick dopamine hack is eating spicy foods. In response to the pain of eating spicy food, the brain releases hormones like endorphins and dopamine which makes you feel euphoria similar to a runner’s high.

5. Get quality sleep

Getting the right amount of sleep for your age can be helpful in lessening the feelings of anxiety. Do what you can to make sure you’re getting enough sleep to feel rested. If you find it hard to sleep or stay asleep, it is best that you talk with a professional.

6. Learn about your disorder

The best way to deal with your condition is to talk about it with professionals. In this way, you will learn your triggers and how to properly deal with it – may it be with medication or therapy. Seeking support might be difficult at first for some, but this is the best way to deal with how you are feeling.

7. Stick to your treatment plan

If you are undergoing treatment with healthcare providers, do your best to take medications as directed. Complete your therapy and do your therapy assignments. When dealing with anxiety, consistency in your treatment can make a big difference.

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