No, dermal fillers and Botox are not the same thing, though they are often used in conjunction with each other for cosmetic treatments.

Here's how they differ:

Botox: Botox is a type of neurotoxin that works by blocking nerve signals in the muscles where it is injected. This causes a temporary reduction in muscle activity, which can reduce the appearance of facial wrinkles and lines, especially those caused by expressions such as frowning or squinting.

Dermal Fillers: On the other hand, dermal fillers are gel-like substances that are injected beneath the skin. They work by restoring lost volume, smoothing lines and softening creases, or enhancing facial contours. Most dermal fillers are made from hyaluronic acid, a naturally occurring substance in our skin that helps it look plump and hydrated.

In summary, while both Botox and dermal fillers can be used to treat wrinkles and restore a more youthful appearance, they do so in different ways and are typically used to treat different types of wrinkles. Scheduling a consult will help determine which treatment is most suitable for your needs.

Dermal fillers are considered a valuable tool in anti-aging regimens and are often used for cheek augmentation, giving broader or more prominent cheekbones. They can help smooth lines, replenish lost volume, and restore a more youthful appearance. They fall somewhere between a facial and a facelift, being minimally invasive but not a surgery.

Many patients choose dermal fillers because they want their external appearance to better match how they feel inside4. If you notice deflating cheekbones, especially when looking at your face at an angle, fillers can be a helpful solution.

Scheduling a consultation will help determine which dermal fillers are most suited for you and the desired look that you are wanting to achieve.

Dermal fillers provide immediate results, meaning you will see a noticeable difference right after the injection. However, it can take up to four weeks for the filler to fully integrate into the tissue and settle into place.

It's also important to note that the final result can continue to improve over six to eight weeks as the product settles and integrates with your skin.

In terms of revisions or adjustments to the treatment, patients are usually advised to wait for 1-2 weeks to allow the results of the initial treatment to fully manifest.

Dermal fillers work by restoring lost volume in the face and stimulating the body's own collagen production. They are typically composed of substances that naturally occur in the body, such as hyaluronic acid, which has the ability to hold up to 1,000 times its weight in water. This helps to hydrate and plump up your skin.

When a dermal filler is injected beneath the skin, it can fill in wrinkles and lines and add volume to areas such as the lips or cheeks. Here's a brief overview of how it works:

Filling Wrinkles, Lines, and Hollows: Dermal fillers literally "fill" the area under the skin where fat used to be, making the skin look smoother and fuller. This is particularly useful for deep lines around the mouth and nose, or for hollow areas in the cheeks or under the eyes.

Adding Volume and Contour: Dermal fillers can also be used to add volume to thin lips, contour the cheeks and jawline, or reshape the nose.

Stimulating Collagen Production: Some dermal fillers, such as those made from poly-L-lactic acid, stimulate the body's own collagen production for a more long-lasting effect. Over time, they help the skin to produce more of its own natural filler, collagen.

It's important to note that the effects of dermal fillers are temporary, as the body eventually breaks down and absorbs the filler substance. The longevity of the results can vary based on factors like the type of filler used and the area of treatment.

Yes, dermal fillers can be used to make your face appear slimmer. While they don't actually remove any fat or volume from your face, they can be strategically placed to create an illusion of a slimmer face.

For example, cheek fillers can restore volume to specific areas of the cheek, leading to optimal light reflection and giving the appearance of a more oval and slimmer face. The versatility of cheek fillers allows them to make the face look thinner or fuller depending on the patient's needs and the injection technique.

Fillers can also be used to reduce the drooping or roundness of the chin, providing a slimmer facial shape and improving overall facial symmetry. They can even be used on the jawline to create a slimming effect.

It's important to remember that results can vary based on factors such as the individual's facial structure, and the type of filler used. Schedule a consultation with Dr. Fadi Calotti to discuss your options and expectations today.

In Ontario, dermal fillers can be administered by a variety of healthcare professionals. However, it is important to note that regulations may vary by province and by type of procedure.

In general, these procedures are typically performed by dermatologists, surgeons, and other doctors who have received specialized training in aesthetic medicine. Nurse practitioners and registered nurses can also perform these procedures under the supervision of a physician.

Additionally, some aesthetic medical spas employ nurse injectors who are trained and certified in administering dermal fillers.

It's crucial to ensure that the person performing your treatment is appropriately qualified and experienced. This can be verified by checking their credentials, asking about their training and experience, and requesting to see before-and-after photos of previous patients they have treated.

Remember, even though dermal fillers are minimally invasive, they still carry risks. These can be minimized by choosing a reputable provider who adheres to the highest standards of patient care and safety. Dr. Fadi Calotti is the exclusive practitioner administering all dermal filler injections. Ensuring your safety is our utmost concern.