Are wrinkle treatments right for you? Let's find out

Written by Megan McNeil, APRN, of the UK HealthCare Aesthetics Center.

Wrinkles happen. Your age, sun exposure, level of smoking and other factors all play a role in the development of wrinkles.

But you can also play a role in eliminating wrinkles by undergoing certain treatments, like Botox, Dysport and dermal fillers.

I’m here to answer some of the most commonly asked questions about these popular and effective procedures.

How do I decide if I want Botox, Dysport or dermal fillers? 

Botox and Dysport are both neurotoxins we use at the UK Aesthetics Center. I compare them to Kleenex and Puffs. They are basically the same thing and work the same way. Some people have a preference over one or the other, and one may work better for an individual than the other. 

Neurotoxins act on muscle receptors to block their actions, and in doing so, the muscle is no longer active for three to four months. The muscles that are treated with neurotoxins are not necessary for facial expressions or functions, which is why this is a safe treatment. Neurotoxins are typically used in the upper face.

Dermal fillers are made up of hyaluronic acid, which is a natural substance found in our bodies. Dermal fillers are used to replace volume loss in the mid and lower parts of your face.

You might want to consider either treatment when you start to notice fine lines and wrinkles or volume loss. Additionally, these procedures can enhance your already-natural features, such as your lips or cheeks. 

You can even have these procedures done before lines start to develop, but you can still benefit from neurotoxins after wrinkles and lines appear.

What does the consultation and procedures look like?

These treatments first involve a consult to discuss your goals and areas of concern. We also perform a full-face assessment to determine which areas can be treated in a safe and effective way non-surgically. 

If your goal is beyond what can be achieved with non-surgical treatment, then we can refer you to one of our surgeons. This can often be done the same day as one is always on site. 

For neurotoxins, a small needle is used to inject the solution into various parts of the face. You can see the full effect two weeks after treatment, and results will last about three to four months. It’s important to maintain this treatment schedule to keep your muscle from becoming strong and overactive again. 

Dermal filler treatment is similar, except that numbing cream is often applied first to increase your comfort. Results are immediate, but the final effect is seen after two weeks when swelling and any bruising have gone away. Dermal fillers last anywhere from six to 18 months depending on the product used.

What types of dermal fillers are available?

There are many kinds of dermal fillers. The area that needs correction determines the type of filler we use. 

There is no beginner route as some patients need a soft, thin filler, while others need a more firm filler for robust volume correction. 

Do I need to be a certain age for these procedures?

I have treated patients all over the age spectrum. I am of the mindset to start early to prevent deeper wrinkles or more severe volume loss. 

Are there other treatments I should consider, too?

Neither of these treatments should be done on their own. I always recommend them in conjunction with medical-grade skin care, facials, peels, micro-needling and laser treatments – all of which are offered at UK. 

Why should I have these procedures done at UK?

The benefit of having these treatments done at UK is that there are many years of experience in one place. We also have direct relationships with skilled surgeons if you’re interested in going that route.

Learn more about the UK HealthCare Aesthetics Center and the services it offers by visiting our website or call 859-257-7171 to schedule an appointment.