1. What are Neuromodulators, Fillers, and Biostimulators, and how do they differ?
Neuromodulators, fillers, and biostimulators are all popular cosmetic treatments, but they work in different ways to achieve desired results. I love using a combination of treatments to achieve the most natural looking results for my clients.
Neuromodulators: These are injectables that temporarily relax specific facial muscles, reducing the appearance of wrinkles caused by repetitive movements. They include Dysport®, Botox®, Xeomin®, Jeuveau®, and Daxxify®. Neuromodulators are also referred to as “Neurotoxins, Toxins, or Tox”.
Fillers: These injectables add volume to specific areas of the face, smoothing wrinkles and restoring youthful contours. They typically contain hyaluronic acid and include brands like Restylane®, Juvéderm,® RHA®, and Versa™. Hyaluronic acid is naturally produced in the body and found in skin, joints, and even the eyes.
Biostimulators: Unlike neuromodulators and fillers, biostimulators stimulate the body's own collagen production, gradually improving skin texture and volume. Examples include Sculptra® and Radiesse®.
2. Which areas of the face are commonly treated with Neuromodulators, Fillers, and Biostimulators?
Neuromodulators: These are commonly used to treat dynamic wrinkles, such as forehead lines, crow's feet, and frown lines between the eyebrows. Other areas to consider treating include the corners of the mouth, the chin, and the neck. Amazingly, excessive sweating and teeth grinding are also treated with tox!
Fillers: Fillers are versatile and can be used to enhance cheekbones, lips, jawline, temples, and to fill in lines and wrinkles. The type of filler I choose is based on your individual anatomy- there is no one size fits all approach here.
Biostimulators: These are often used to address volume loss in larger areas of the face, such as the cheeks and temples, and to improve overall skin texture and firmness.
3. What should patients consider when choosing between Neuromodulators, Fillers, and Biostimulators?
Desired Results: If you're looking to relax specific muscles and reduce dynamic wrinkles (those produced with movement), neuromodulators may be the best option. For adding volume or enhancing facial contours, fillers are ideal. Biostimulators are suitable for those seeking gradual, natural-looking improvements in skin texture and volume- patience is key with these!
Duration of Results: Neuromodulators typically last 3-4 months, fillers can last anywhere from 6 months to 2 years depending on the product used, while biostimulators can last up to 2 years or more as they stimulate collagen production over time. Just keep in mind-everyone metabolizes products differently.
Treatment Approach: Some patients prefer a more gradual improvement with biostimulators, while others may opt for the immediate results offered by neuromodulators and fillers. We will provide you with the best options based on your anatomy, the results we’d like to achieve, as well as the timeline we have to achieve those results.
4. Are there any side effects associated with these treatments?
Neuromodulators: Side effects are usually mild and temporary, including bruising, swelling, and mild discomfort at the injection site. Rarely, there can be eyelid drooping or asymmetry.
Fillers: Common side effects include bruising, swelling, redness, and tenderness at the injection site. More serious complications like lumps, nodules, or vascular compromise are rare but possible.
Biostimulators: Side effects are similar to fillers, with bruising, swelling, and redness being common. As with fillers, rare complications like nodules or granulomas can occur.
5. How can patients ensure safe and effective treatment with Neuromodulators, Fillers, and Biostimulators?
Choose a Qualified Provider: It's crucial to seek treatment from a Board-Certified Dermatologist, Plastic Surgeon, Physician Assistant or Nurse Practitioner with experience in cosmetic injectables.
Communicate Clearly: Discuss your goals and concerns with your provider to ensure they understand your expectations and can recommend the most suitable treatment plan. Be open to suggestions from your provider, we are trained to see things that you may not quite notice. Understanding anatomy, the aging process, and how to restore youth through facial balancing is a sign of a great provider.
Follow Post-Treatment Instructions: Proper aftercare, such as avoiding strenuous exercise and excessive sun exposure, can help minimize side effects and optimize results. We’ll go through all the details with you at your visit.
In conclusion, whether you're interested in smoothing wrinkles, restoring volume, or improving skin texture, there's a cosmetic treatment option that can help you achieve your desired look. Schedule a consultation with me, Mona Entezari, PA-C, today to determine the best approach for your individual needs and goals. Please call us at 239-529-DERM (3376) or schedule online.