Botox vs dermal fillers
They solve different problems and are not interchangeable. Botox relaxes the muscles that crease the skin, so it treats movement lines — frown lines, forehead lines, crow's feet. Fillers replace lost volume, so they treat hollows and flattening — cheeks, under-eyes, lips, jawline. Many faces benefit from one, the other, or both in sequence; that is an examination decision, not a menu choice.
| Botox | Dermal fillers | |
|---|---|---|
| What it does | Relaxes the muscle activity that creases skin | Restores volume and supports structure |
| Treats | Frown lines, forehead lines, crow's feet | Cheek flattening, under-eye hollows, lips, jawline |
| Onset | Gradual over 3–14 days | Visible immediately, settles over 2 weeks |
| Typically lasts | Around 3–4 months in most patients | Commonly 6–18 months depending on product and area |
| Reversibility | Wears off naturally as effect fades | Hyaluronic-acid fillers can be dissolved if needed |
| Administered by | Always a physician at our clinic | Always a physician at our clinic |
Choose botox if
- Lines that appear or deepen when you frown, squint or raise your brows
- A softening of expression lines while keeping natural movement
Choose dermal fillers if
- Hollowness or flattening — cheeks, under-eyes, temples
- Lip shape or volume, or jawline definition
- Static lines caused by volume loss rather than movement
Common questions
Which lasts longer, Botox or fillers?
Fillers generally — commonly six to eighteen months depending on product and area, versus around three to four months for Botox. Both vary by individual and are maintained rather than one-off.
Will either make me look frozen or overdone?
Overtreatment causes that, not the treatments themselves. Conservative dosing that preserves natural movement is the standard we work to, and it is why we treat gradually and review.
Can Botox and fillers be combined?
Frequently — they address different things, so a movement line and a volume hollow on the same face need different tools. Sequencing is decided at examination.
Is there downtime?
Usually minimal — small injection-site marks or mild swelling for a day or two. We advise avoiding heavy exercise and pressure on the area briefly.
This page is educational and does not replace an in-person consultation. Medical disclaimer