Injectable Fillers Conveniently located to serve Houston, The Woodlands and Sugar Land
Questions and Answers About Injectables and Fillers
What is BOTOX and how is it used for cosmetic injection?
BOTOX® is a purified form of Botulism Toxin Type A that is used to temporarily paralyze certain facial muscles. It is used for “dynamic” wrinkles or wrinkles that occur in the face with motion. The injection is placed into and surrounding the targeted muscle using a very small needle.
BOTOX comes as a powder and needs to be reconstituted with saline solution. Allergan, the company that makes BOTOX recommends that the toxin be used within four hours after reconstitution. However, recent studies have demonstrated that it retains its efficacy up to two weeks after reconstitution. At The Bressler Center for Facial Plastic Surgery and Skin Care, we only use BOTOX that has been reconstituted within the last week, allowing for a concentrated dose and producing the most effective and long-lasting result possible. Patients considering BOTOX injection at clinics or spas other than The Bressler Center should be certain to ask when the BOTOX was reconstituted prior to receiving treatment.
Is BOTOX safe?
BOTOX has been used safely for more than 30 years for the medical treatment of muscle spasticity. It has been used safely for cosmetic purposes now for more than 10 years. The amount of BOTOX used during a cosmetic injection is one-fiftieth the dose that would cause toxicity.
How long before the BOTOX takes effect and how long will it last?
Typically, BOTOX takes approximately 48 hours to take effect and achieves its maximum effect at one to two weeks. It will usually last about four months before reinjection is needed.
There is no downtime required following Botox injections. Some patients may want to lie down and rest for an hour or so, but many patients are able to resume their normal activities right away. There may be some redness and very mild swelling around the injection sites that will subside quickly.
What is Dysport and how is it used for cosmetic injection?
Dysport® is also a purified form of Botulinum Toxin Type A that is very similar to BOTOX. There are some differences in the formula and their effectiveness can vary between patients. During your consultation, Dr. Bressler will ask about the issues you are looking to address and gather some medical information to help determine which option is right for you.
Which should I have injected, Dysport or BOTOX?
These medications are very similar. Their side effect profile, duration until onset, and lasting time are about the same. Patients with an allergy to cow’s milk protein cannot be injected with Dysport.
What are the different types of fillers? Where and how are they used?
Fillers are used for passive wrinkles or wrinkles that are present when the face is at rest. Sometimes dynamic wrinkles will eventually become passive wrinkles. These can be treated with a combination of BOTOX and filler.
An easy way to categorize fillers is by whether they are temporary or permanent. Temporary fillers include the phylogenic acid types which are Restylane®, Perlane®, and Juvéderm™. Phylogenic acid is a natural substance that is found in our cartilage, ligaments, and connective tissue. These fillers will last approximately six to 12 months. Other temporary fillers are Radiesse® and Sculptra™ which typically last longer. These fillers are safe, effective, and have proven to retain their composition for the time stated.
Common locations in the face for filler injection include the fold between the cheek and the lip (melolabial or nasolabial fold), the folds below the corners of the mouth (marionette lines), and the lips.
Is it important as to who performs my injections?
These injectables can be legally performed by anyone with the proper training. It is important to ask your dermatologist, plastic surgeon or facial plastic surgeon who specifically will be performing your injection. Unfortunately, these procedures are at times performed by people outside of these specialties with inappropriate skills or training.
Your injections at The Bressler Center for Facial Plastic Surgery and Skin Care will be performed only by Dr. Fred Bressler. As a surgeon, Dr. Bressler is familiar with the facial anatomy, and as a facial plastic surgeon, has the artistic creativity to perform these injections with the most aesthetically pleasing goals in mind.
Although BOTOX and filler procedures are becoming more commonplace, neither can replace cosmetic surgery. A person will never obtain as dramatic a result with a non-invasive procedure as with a surgical option – which is precisely why a person is wise to seek these non-invasive services at The Bressler Center.
Is there a way to enhance the effectiveness of these injections?
Yes, we offer ZYTAZE®, a series of 10 capsules that provides nutritional support. Taken prior to treatment, this supplement can enhance and prolong the effects of botulinum toxin injections. Ask Dr. Bressler if ZYTAZE™ is right for you.
How much will my injectable filler treatment cost?
The cost of your injectable filler treatment in Houston will be based on several factors. Some patients may be seeking to address multiple issues, others may want a combination of Botox and fillers. During your consultation, our team will let you know what the cost of your treatment will be.
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Schedule a Consultation Today
If you are looking for a non-surgical way to reduce the appearance of your fine lines and wrinkles without having to undergo surgery, injectable filler treatments may be the best choice for you. Contact The Bressler Center today to schedule a consultation for your injectable filler treatment in Houston. You can also call us at 713.441.3223 to schedule an appointment.
Houston Methodist Facial Plastic Surgery Associates
Smith Tower, Suite 1703, 6550 Fannin Street
Houston, TX 77030
