More and more people are discovering the advantages of injectables such as botox and fillers. These treatments can provide a fresher appearance, soften wrinkles or restore volume. But is it actually possible to combine different injectables with each other? And if so, when is that wise?
In this blog we explain what the difference is between botox and fillers, how they can complement each other and when combining treatments is a smart choice.
What are injectables?
Injectables are substances that are injected into or under the skin with a fine needle. They are used to reduce certain signs of skin ageing or to subtly enhance the face. The two most commonly used injectables are:
Botox: works on the muscles and ensures that these temporarily relax. As a result, wrinkles that arise from muscle activity, such as frown lines, crow’s feet or forehead wrinkles, fade.
Fillers: give volume back to the skin. They are used, for example, with sunken cheeks, deep nasolabial folds or for filling up lips. Most fillers are based on hyaluronic acid, a substance native to the body that retains moisture.
Both treatments work in a different way and therefore also have a different purpose. Precisely for that reason they can be used well alongside each other.
Why would you combine injectables?
Many people think that they have to choose between botox or fillers, but in reality these treatments often complement each other perfectly. Where botox relaxes the muscles and thus prevents or softens wrinkles, fillers provide volume and firmness in the skin.
By combining both techniques, you can work on several levels:
- Softening expression wrinkles with botox
- Filling up deeper folds with fillers
- Restoring volume and contours in, for example, the cheeks or jawline
- Making lips fuller or bringing back a youthful appearance
The result is usually a fresher and more natural-looking improvement of the face, without there being an unnatural or exaggerated change.
Is it safe to combine injectables?
Yes, it is safe to combine botox and fillers, provided this is done by an experienced doctor who looks carefully at your face, skin structure and wishes. At Kliniek het Bolwerk we take ample time for this. We never just start a treatment, but first map out the entire face and discuss what bothers you and what you would like to improve.
Often a treatment plan is drawn up setting out which zones can best be treated with botox and where a filler will give more effect. These treatments can be carried out on the same day, but sometimes it is chosen to do this in steps. That depends on your skin condition, the amount of product and your recovery.
What are the advantages of combination treatments?
Combining injectables has several advantages:
A balanced result
Because we work on skin rejuvenation or improvement in different ways, a more balanced result arises. The muscles become calmer, but the volume is maintained or restored in a subtle way. This ensures a natural appearance.
Less noticeable changes
When we combine small quantities of injectables, you often need less of each separate product. That makes the result more refined and natural. You look rested, without people being able to pinpoint exactly what has changed.
Longer-lasting effect
In some cases one treatment supports the effect of the other. A filler can, for example, show to better advantage when the surrounding muscles are calmed with botox. As a result, the effect is sometimes maintained longer.
How does a combined treatment proceed?
During a first consultation we go through your wishes and complaints carefully. We look at the total face and not just at one specific wrinkle or zone. The aim is to put together a treatment that suits your appearance and stage of life.
When you are eligible for a combination treatment, we discuss step by step which zones can be treated, with which product and in what order. Sometimes botox and fillers are applied on the same day, sometimes in different sessions.
The treatment itself usually takes no longer than thirty to sixty minutes. The skin may be a little red or swollen afterwards, but this usually fades quickly. With fillers it is advisable to be a little careful with pressure on the treated area. With botox, you must keep your head upright for the first few hours and avoid intensive exercise or heat.
How do you know whether a combination treatment suits you?
Not everyone needs a combination of injectables. At Kliniek het Bolwerk we always look at your face, skin condition and personal goals. Sometimes a small treatment with only botox is already enough for a fresh look. In other cases, subtle fillers are more appropriate. And sometimes it is precisely the combination that provides the most beautiful, most natural improvement.
It is important that you feel comfortable with it. During the consultation we do not make decisions about your face without your full consent. Only if it really suits you and your wishes do we proceed to treatment.
Finally
Injectables such as botox and fillers can be safely combined, provided this is done in the right way. Because both techniques have a different effect, they can reinforce each other and provide a natural and balanced result.
At Kliniek het Bolwerk we always work from the overall picture. We do not just treat wrinkles, but look at the harmony in the face and listen to your story. Together we determine which treatment or combination of treatments gives you the most beautiful result, without over-correction or an artificial appearance.
Are you curious whether a combination of injectables is something for you? Then feel free to schedule a no-obligation consultation. We take the time for you and give honest advice, so that you can make a well-considered choice.
