By Dr. Rabach
Botox, Radiesse and Juvéderm are popular cosmetic treatments used to address various facial concerns, but they differ in their composition, mode of action and areas of application. Understanding these differences can help individuals choose the most suitable treatment for their specific needs or a combination of these popular injectables.
Botox (Botulinum Toxin Type A)
Botox is a neurotoxin derived from the bacterium Clostridium botulinum. It works by temporarily blocking nerve signals to the muscles, reducing their ability to contract.
- Mode of Action: Botox targets dynamic wrinkles—those caused by repetitive muscle movements such as frowning or squinting. It is commonly used to smooth out forehead lines, crow’s feet around the eye, and frown lines between the eyebrows (glabellar lines).
- Duration: The effects of Botox typically last around three to four months before requiring a touch-up. However, with regular treatments, some individuals may notice longer-lasting results.
- Areas of Application: Botox is used for forehead lines, eye wrinkles, neck lines, chin dimples, masseter reduction, lip flips, nose reshaping and jawline definition.
Botox Cosmetic is FDA-approved for smoothing frown lines and crow’s feet, but it is also used for many off-label cosmetic treatments.
Radiesse
Radiesse dermal filler primarily consists of calcium hydroxylapatite (CaHA) microspheres suspended in a gel carrier. CaHA is a biocompatible substance found naturally in bones, making Radiesse a safe option for many individuals.
- Mode of Action: Once injected, Radiesse provides immediate volume to the treated area, addressing wrinkles, fine lines, and adding structure to facial contours. Beyond this immediate effect, it also stimulates the body’s natural collagen production.
- Areas of Application: Radiesse is commonly used for various facial and skin enhancements, such as nasolabial folds, marionette lines, cheeks, jawline and backs of hands.
- Duration: On average, its effects can last around 12-18 months. However, due to its collagen-stimulating properties, some individuals experience results lasting longer than a year
Over time, the gel carrier dissipates, while the CaHA microspheres remain and encourage the growth of new collagen fibers. This process contributes to long-lasting results even after the initial gel is absorbed by the body.
Juvéderm
Juvéderm is a hyaluronic acid-based dermal filler, available in various formulations designed to address different concerns.
- Mode of Action: Juvéderm replenishes lost volume, smoothes wrinkles and enhances facial contours. It is commonly used to treat nasolabial folds (smile lines), marionette lines, cheeks and lips for volume enhancement.
- Areas of Application: Juvéderm has a wide range of formulations tailored for specific areas and concerns. Juvéderm Voluma is designed for cheek augmentation and mid-face volume restoration, while Juvéderm Volbella is specifically for lip augmentation and perioral lines.
- Duration: The effects of Juvéderm can last between six months to two years, depending on the specific product used and individual factors.
Choosing between Botox, Radiesse and Juvéderm depends on the specific concerns, areas to be treated and desired outcomes. Consulting with a qualified cosmetic dermatologist or facial plastic surgeon like Dr. Morgan or Dr. Lesley Rabach is essential to assess individual needs and recommend the most suitable treatment or combination of treatments for optimal results.
While Botox targets muscle movement to reduce wrinkles, Radiesse and Juvéderm focus on adding volume and filling in lines and wrinkles using different formulations. Each treatment option offers distinct benefits and can be customized to address various facial concerns, providing patients with a range of options for facial rejuvenation and enhancement. If you want to explore all the options in cosmetic injectables, come see us at LM Medical NYC. Contact our clinic to schedule a consultation with Dr. Lesley or Dr. Morgan.
