If you’re concerned about the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, simple cosmetic surgery procedures like injectable fillers and relaxers are great ways to rejuvenate your appearance. Both treatments are minimally invasive skin care options, and each offers impressive benefits for patients. So how do you decide which is right for you? David K. Hiranaka, M.D., D.M.D., a leading cosmetic surgeon on Kailua Kona, HI, explains the difference between these two popular treatments.

Injectable Fillers

Injectable fillers like Juvéderm®, Restylane®, and Perlane® are designed to add volume to parts of the face that have lost collagen as part of the normal aging process. When injected into the skin, they soften the appearance of wrinkles and folds, especially in trouble spots around the corners of the mouth. By also plumping lips and cheeks, they work to restore a more youthful-looking appearance.

While the effects of using fillers are remarkable and can usually be seen quickly, they aren’t permanent. An injection typically lasts around six months before you may want to consider a second treatment.

Relaxers

Over time, fine lines develop where the facial muscles contract to create expressions. Relaxers such as Botox® and Dysport® reduce the appearance of wrinkles by inhibiting the movement of the muscles around the injection site. With relaxers, you can restore a youthful appearance by reducing crow’s feet, laugh lines, and creases attributed to stress and worry.

Patients who use relaxers can expect to see swift initial results, and additional improvements may continue to appear for up to 10 days. However, the effect of Botox and Dysport is temporary and typically lasts for three to four months.

Both fillers and relaxers are considered low-invasive procedures and are performed without anesthesia. Although complications are extremely rare, you should always see a physician who is board-certified in cosmetic surgery for treatment.

Interested in what cosmetic surgery can do for you? Contact Dr. David K. Hiranaka’s office at (808) 326-2040 today to schedule a consultation. Recognized as a leader in the field, Dr. Hiranaka earned medical and dental degrees at Harvard University and has been practicing in Hawaii since 1994. To learn more about his expertise, visit his website; you can also connect with the practice on Facebook to learn more about cosmetic surgery, injectable fillers, and relaxers.