BOTOX® vs Fillers: What’s the Difference?

Fine lines and wrinkles, hollow cheeks, and deep folds are all common signs of aging, but they have different causes and require different solutions. Neurotoxins like BOTOX and Dysport® reduce signs of aging by relaxing the underlying muscles, while dermal fillers restore volume and structure that the face naturally loses over time. Knowing which one is right for your specific concerns is key to getting the results you want. 

At Main Street Medical Center & The Vue MediSpa in Crestview, FL, Dr. Joshua K. Kolmetz helps patients find the right cosmetic injectables for their goals. Call today to discover more and book a consultation. 

What causes Crow's feet and loss of volume? 

So, what causes Crow’s feet and a general loss of volume in the face? Dynamic wrinkles, like Crow's feet, develop from repeated muscle movements. Every time you smile or squint, the skin around your eyes creases. Over the years, these creases become lasting lines that are visible even when your face is at rest. 

Loss of volume is another common sign of aging. As we get older, our bodies make less collagen, and the natural fat pads under our skin start to shrink, leading to issues such as hollow cheeks. 

Because they have different causes, these concerns require different solutions. Fine lines and wrinkles from muscle movement are best treated with a neurotoxin, while lost volume and structure are best addressed with a dermal filler. 

The science behind neurotoxins 

Neurotoxin treatment temporarily relaxes the muscles causing dynamic wrinkles. When injected into specific areas, they soften the muscle contractions that lead to Crow's feet, forehead lines, and frown lines. While both BOTOX and Dysport work similarly, their main difference is their formulation. Dysport tends to spread a bit more, which can be great for larger areas, like the forehead. BOTOX, on the other hand, is more precise, making it ideal for smaller, targeted zones. Dr. Josh will help you decide which is the better choice for your unique features and goals. 

How dermal fillers work 

Dermal fillers restore volume, structure, and contour to areas that have lost fullness over time. They are particularly effective for hollow cheeks, thinning lips, deep folds around the mouth, and under-eye issues. Unlike neurotoxin treatments, fillers do not affect muscle movement. They work by physically adding volume beneath the skin to lift, smooth, and reshape. Results are immediate and can last anywhere from six months to two years or more, depending on the product used and the area treated. 

What to expect at your consultation 

During a consultation at our Crestview, FL practice, Dr. Josh takes the time to evaluate your concerns, review your facial anatomy, and understand what you are hoping to achieve. From there, he recommends the combination of cosmetic injectables that makes the most sense for your specific goals, whether that is neurotoxin treatment, fillers, or both. Each plan is built around what you need rather than a one-size-fits-all approach. 

Discover cosmetic injectables for a refreshed look 

If you have questions such as, "What causes Crow’s feet?" or want more information about which treatment is right for your fine lines and wrinkles, Dr. Joshua K. Kolmetz and the team at Main Street Medical Center & The Vue MediSpa are here to help. Serving patients in Crestview, FL, our practice is committed to helping every patient achieve natural, refreshed results they love. Call today to schedule your consultation.