What is the Difference Between Fillers and Biostimulators?
Fillers and biostimulators are powerful tools for combating the signs of aging. Both revitalize skin, enhance appearance, and restore a youthful glow. Knowing the difference between the two products can help patients make informed decisions.
Keep reading to learn more about the difference between fillers and biostimulators.
What are Fillers?
Fillers are injections that are designed to add facial volume and hydrate skin. Most fillers depend on hyaluronic acid (HA) as their major component.
HA-based fillers such as Restylane and Juvederm are among the most commonly used. As a humectant, HA attracts and holds water molecules onto the surface of the skin, increasing hydration and volume in the treated areas.
Skin loses hyaluronic acid as individuals age, leading to wrinkles and sagging. Fillers can restore lost fullness and volume to areas that have thinned, such as the under-eye area and cheeks.
They can also smooth folds, lines, and wrinkles, enhance facial contours, and improve overall symmetry. Fillers work by physically filling in hollow areas, lines, and wrinkles.
The results are immediate, giving an instant smoothing and plumping effect that leaves patients looking rejuvenated and youthful.
What are Biostimulators?
Biostimulators are injectable treatments that stimulate the natural production of new collagen in the skin. Collagen is an essential protein that maintains the skin’s structural integrity, volume, elasticity, and overall firmness, giving it a toned, plump, youthful look.
The natural production of collagen tends to diminish with age, leading to sagging skin, wrinkles, lines, and other visible signs of aging. Biostimulators such as Radiesse and Sculptra activate fibroblasts or collagen-producing cells, kickstarting collagen synthesis in the treated areas.
This novel approach ensures more natural outcomes. The transformative effects of biostimulators unfold gradually.
Over time, the increase in collagen production rejuvenates and strengthens skin, enhancing its firmness, volume, texture, and elasticity.
The result is a refreshed, more youthful complexion that lasts for years.
What are the Differences Between Biostimulators and Fillers?
Key differences between the two include include:
Instant vs Gradual Results
Biostimulators work gradually, stimulating collagen production over time. Patients begin to see continued skin volume and texture improvements within a few weeks to months post-treatment.
Biostimulators can be ideal for patients who prefer progressive and subtle results. Conversely, dermal fillers have an instant volumizing and hydrating effect once they’re injected.
Patients leave the doctor’s office with visible changes. They can be an excellent choice for patients seeking fast results without the wait.
Longevity
Generally, fillers last between 6 to 18 months, depending on the type of filler used, the area treated, and other individual factors. Frequent touch-ups may be necessary to maintain the desired outcomes.
Biostimulators last longer, with effects that can extend for 2 years or more.
Can You Combine Fillers and Biostimulators?
Combining fillers and biostimulators can effectively address multiple concerns, offering a more comprehensive approach to skin rejuvenation. Patients get the full effects of both treatments and don’t have to settle for the results of only one.
The two products can work synergistically, providing both short and long-term improvements. Fillers can be used to add instant volume, while biostimulators can work over time to boost overall skin structure and elasticity.
Even though combining these treatments is advantageous, it requires an in-depth understanding of filler properties and facial anatomy. Dr. Schlessinger has a thorough understanding of injectable products and the human face and employs advanced injection techniques.
This empowers him to personalize treatment for each patient, recommend the right products, target the right areas, and avoid potential side effects and complications.
He’s also a highly qualified and experienced oculoplastic surgeon, credentialed to deliver excellent, natural-looking results while prioritizing patient safety.
Are you interested in fillers or biostimulators? Schedule your appointment at Schlessinger Eye & Face in Woodbury, NY, today to discover which treatment can help you regain and maintain a refreshed and youthful appearance.
