Neurotoxin and filler injections are the most popular minimally invasive cosmetic procedures done in Canada. They are used to smooth, remodel, or augment facial areas to enhance the face’s natural features. Many of our patients are drawn to cosmetic injections because they want their outer appearance to reflect the youthfulness they feel on the inside. Cosmetic injections are a way for people to feel more confident, self-assured, energized, and like the best version of themselves. At Clinic 805, we place a high value on our patients having access to credible and up-to-date information to help them make decisions. So, before you make an appointment to receive your first cosmetic injections, it’s important to educate yourself on the various options available to you.
Neuromodulators vs. Fillers
The two main types of injectables are neuromodulators and dermal fillers.
Neuromodulators or neurotoxin injections like BOTOX® are used to treat permanent furrows and deep wrinkles in the skin. When injected into the muscles, neuromodulators partially immobilize the muscles by blocking nerve impulses to the point where they cannot contract. This temporarily eliminates dynamic lines caused by muscle contraction and can soften the appearance of fine lines. However, deep lines or furrows often cannot be eliminated with neuromodulators alone.
Dermal fillers such as Juvéderm® are used to treat volume loss that develops over time with fat loss, bone loss, muscle lengthening and skin quality changes. Dermal fillers are made of a soft gel-like substance often composed of hyaluronic acid. Dermal fillers are injected into the skin and help to contour, shape, and add volume to the lips, cheeks, chin, temples, neck, and hands.
The main difference between these two cosmetic injectables is that neuromodulators are injected directly into the muscle to temporarily relax them, causing a reduction in dynamic wrinkles. Dermal fillers are injected into the skin to smooth out wrinkles and restore volume.
The Benefits
The specific benefits for each patient are wide and can vary.
Neuromodulators are used to treat:
- Forehead furrows
- Frown lines between the eyebrows
- Lines across the bridge of the nose
- Crow’s feet
- Skin bands on the neck
Dermal fillers are used to:
- Balance and add dimension to facial features
- Lift brows and temples
- Refresh tired eyes by softening hollows
- Enhance and define lips
- Soften lines around the mouth
- Contour chin and jawline
- Rejuvenate the hands
- Improve skin quality of the neck and décolleté
What to Expect During Your Treatment
Injectable treatments are quick, with appointments typically an hour or less. You can even plan your appointment on your lunch break. Results are visible quickly. For example, fillers take effect right away, and neuromodulators take effect within 3 days, reaching their full result at 2 weeks. There’s minimal recovery time, and most patients resume their normal routine right away. Many patients express that injections are virtually pain-free or cause only mild, temporary discomfort. The thinnest needles are used to precisely deliver the product, and receiving the injections requires no anesthetic. However, some injectors choose to numb the area with ice packs or a topical anesthetic cream for maximum patient comfort.
How Long Do Results Last?
The smoothing effects of most cosmetic injectables are temporary, and regular treatments are needed to maintain the desired outcome. Multiple factors affect the longevity of the results and depend on the product used, how much is injected, where it is put in the face, and the patient’s metabolism. As a general guideline, neuromodulators typically last around three to four months, while hyaluronic acid fillers last anywhere from six to eighteen months. It’s important to remember that if you don’t like the results, hyaluronic acid fillers are reversible: An enzyme can be injected that will dissolve the filler within 24 hours. Neuromodulators, however, are not reversible, so it’s always better to start with less and add more later.
Side Effects and Risks
Even non-surgical procedures have risks – the most common side effects of injectables can include:
- Slight discomfort
- Bruising
- Redness
- Swelling
- Infection
- Inflammation
- Tenderness
- Minimal bleeding
Many of these adverse reactions are generally temporary, but some could last several months.
Who Should NOT Get Injectables?
You should not receive cosmetic injections if you are under the age of 18, sick, had dental work, injections or immunizations in the past two weeks, or are pregnant or breastfeeding.
Injectables may also not be suitable for you if you have:
- Certain medical conditions, such as an autoimmune disease
- A history of keloid scarring (thick, raised scars)
- Inflamed or infected skin
- Severe allergies
It is important to tell your medical practitioner if you take medications, including prescription and over-the-counter medications.
Who Can Administer Injectables?
Equally as important as choosing the right kind of injection is selecting an experienced and qualified injector who is current in the latest techniques. An injector without the proper skills and training can lead to unnatural results. To achieve the desired look, patients need to choose an expert injector with a keen aesthetic eye for natural beauty. In addition, cosmetic injections should be given by a dermatologist or nurse injector to minimize risks and adverse reactions. For more information on how to find an injector for you, read our blog!
Cost
The cost of an injectable treatment varies depending on the exact products used, the area being treated, the patient and their desired results. The average price for a dermal filler injection is $600 to $800 per 1mL vial (syringe). On average, a patient may use anywhere from 2 to 4 vials in a visit, depending on which area of the face is being treated. The cost of a neurotoxin injection like BOTOX® is measured in units, and on average, the price in Canada per unit is between $10 -$17. Bear in mind the average units required for each area of treatment varies. For example, forehead lines can take on average 8-12 units, crow’s feet 8-24 units and frowns 15-30 units. Keep in mind if the price looks too good to be true, it’s likely a red flag.
Aftercare
Your medical practitioner will guide you through your specific aftercare regimen. But general self-care suggestions include:
- Not exposing the treated skin to extreme temperatures
- Keeping treated skin areas clean
- Not touching or rubbing treated areas
- Seeing your medical practitioner if you experience unusual symptoms or have any concerns.
If you’re interested in further exploring the benefits and aesthetic potential of cosmetic injections, contact us to schedule a visit to Clinic 805 today.
