BOTOX® and Fillers

What is BOTOX?

BOTOX®, medically known as onabotulinumtoxinA, is a purified protein derived from the bacterium Clostridium botulinum. It works by temporarily blocking nerve signals to targeted muscles, preventing them from contracting. These repetitive muscle contractions are responsible for dynamic wrinkles, which form over time due to facial expressions like smiling, frowning, or squinting. By relaxing these muscles, BOTOX smooths out the wrinkles and gives the skin a smoother, more youthful appearance.
BOTOX is a highly effective treatment for reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, and it has been FDA-approved for both cosmetic and medical uses. The effects of BOTOX typically last between three and four months, with minimal downtime and a quick recovery.

Common Aesthetic Uses for BOTOX:

• Forehead lines: Smooths horizontal lines that develop from raising the eyebrows.
• Frown lines: Also known as “11” lines, BOTOX helps relax the vertical creases between the eyebrows.
• Crow’s feet: Softens the fine lines at the outer corners of the eyes.
• Bunny lines: Reduces wrinkles on the bridge of the nose.
• Lip flip: Enhances the upper lip by relaxing the muscles around the mouth, creating a fuller appearance.
• Chin dimpling: Smooths the appearance of an orange-peel texture on the chin.
• Neck bands: Reduces the appearance of vertical neck lines (platysmal bands).

What are Dermal Fillers?

Dermal fillers are injectable treatments designed to restore lost volume, smooth out wrinkles, and enhance facial contours. As we age, our skin naturally loses collagen, fat, and elasticity, leading to sagging, fine lines, and a hollowed appearance in certain areas of the face. Dermal fillers can help counteract these changes by replenishing volume and adding subtle lift to the skin, giving you a more youthful and refreshed look.

Most dermal fillers are made from hyaluronic acid (HA), a substance naturally found in the body that helps retain moisture and provides structure to the skin. These fillers are injected beneath the skin to plump and lift areas that have lost volume over time. The effects of dermal fillers are typically long-lasting, with results that can endure anywhere from six months to over a year, depending on the treatment area and the type of filler used.

Common Aesthetic Uses for Dermal Fillers:

• Cheek enhancement: Fillers can add volume to the cheeks, restoring a more youthful contour and lifting sagging skin.
• Lip augmentation: For fuller, more defined lips, fillers can be used to enhance shape and volume.
• Nasolabial folds: These lines, which run from the nose to the mouth, can be softened with filler injections.
• Marionette lines: Fillers help diminish the lines that extend from the corners of the mouth down toward the chin.
• Jawline contouring: Fillers can be used to create a more defined, sculpted jawline, enhancing facial symmetry.
• Chin enhancement: For those seeking a more balanced profile, fillers can be injected to add definition to the chin.
• Under-eye hollows: Dermal fillers can reduce the appearance of dark circles and hollows under the eyes, creating a more rested appearance.

Preparing for Treatment

Before your BOTOX or filler appointment at Garden State Bariatrics, it’s important to follow a few simple guidelines to ensure the best possible experience. We recommend avoiding blood-thinning medications such as aspirin or ibuprofen for about a week prior to treatment, as these can increase the risk of bruising. You should also avoid alcohol and limit sun exposure for at least 24 hours before your visit. Our team will provide detailed instructions during your consultation, so you’ll know exactly what to expect.

FAQs About Botox and Fillers

Do BOTOX and fillers hurt?

The discomfort associated with BOTOX and filler injections is typically minimal. Most patients describe the sensation as a small pinch or pressure during the injections. To ensure your comfort, we can apply a topical numbing cream to the treatment area. Dermal fillers often contain a local anesthetic to further reduce discomfort. If you’re concerned about pain, we’ll work with you to make your experience as comfortable as possible.

How much do BOTOX and dermal fillers cost?

The cost of BOTOX and dermal fillers varies depending on the treatment area, the number of injections required, and the product used. During your consultation, we’ll provide a detailed cost estimate based on your personalized treatment plan. Additionally, Garden State Bariatrics offers financing options to help make aesthetic treatments more accessible. Our team can discuss payment plans to ensure you’re able to achieve your aesthetic goals comfortably.

Learn more about financing options

When will I see the results of my BOTOX or dermal filler treatment?

With BOTOX, you can expect results to start appearing within three to five days, while fillers may show immediate improvement with continued enhancement over the next week.

Are BOTOX and dermal fillers safe?

Yes, both BOTOX and dermal fillers are FDA-approved and have been safely used for cosmetic purposes for many years. However, like any medical treatment, there are potential risks and side effects. We use only FDA-approved products and follow strict protocols to ensure patient safety. Here are the potential side effects for each treatment:

BOTOX Risks and Side Effects:

• Temporary bruising or swelling at the injection site
• Mild headache or flu-like symptoms
• Drooping eyelid or asymmetry (rare)
• Dry eye or x Trusted Source What are the risks of botulinum toxin injections? American Society of Plastic Surgeons Go to Source excessive tearing

Dermal Fillers Risks and Side Effects:

• Temporary redness, swelling, or bruising at the injection site
• Lumpiness or firmness under the skin
• Allergic reactions (very rare)
• Infection x Trusted Source What are the risks of dermal fillers? American Society of Plastic Surgeons Go to Source (rare but possible with any injection)

Our team will thoroughly review your medical history and any concerns you may have to minimize the risk of complications.

Am I a candidate for BOTOX and dermal fillers?

Most individuals looking to reduce the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, or loss of volume are good candidates for BOTOX and dermal fillers. Ideal candidates should be in good overall health and have realistic expectations about the results. During your consultation, we’ll evaluate your facial anatomy, discuss your goals, and help determine if these treatments are right for you.