The short answer
Lines that appear when you move your face, such as frown lines, forehead lines and crow's feet, are usually a job for a neuromodulator such as Botox. Lines and hollows that are there even when your face is still, along with lips, cheeks and the jawline, are usually a job for filler. Many people have both kinds of concern, which is why providers often combine the two. A licensed provider decides what fits your face.
Botox and filler side by side
| Botox | Dermal filler | |
|---|---|---|
| What it is | A prescription neuromodulator | A gel, most often based on hyaluronic acid, placed under the skin |
| How it works | Relaxes the muscle that creases the skin when you make an expression | Adds volume, lift or definition where it is placed |
| Typical session | A short visit with a few small injections | A visit that is usually a little longer, with injections by needle or cannula |
| Recovery | Most people return to daily life the same day, with possible small bumps for a short time | Swelling and possible bruising for a few days for many people, longer in the lips |
| How long results usually last | About 3 to 4 months for many people, varies | Several months to more than a year depending on the product and area, varies |
| Who performs it | A licensed medical professional, according to your state's rules | A licensed medical professional, according to your state's rules |
| Price | Price varies by clinic, ask for a quote. | Price varies by clinic, ask for a quote. |
Dynamic lines and static lines
Dynamic lines come and go with movement. Raise your brows and forehead lines appear, relax and they fade. Static lines stay at rest, often because of volume loss, sun damage or years of the same expression. A neuromodulator softens the movement behind dynamic lines. Filler supports the skin where volume is missing. Deep, long-standing lines can need both.
Can filler be reversed
Hyaluronic acid filler can usually be dissolved by a provider with an enzyme if needed, which is one reason many people start with it. Botox cannot be dissolved, but its effect wears off on its own over a few months. Not every filler is hyaluronic acid, so ask which product is used.
How to choose with your provider
- Point to the exact lines or areas that bother you, at rest and while you make expressions.
- Ask whether the concern is movement, volume or both.
- For filler, ask which product is suggested, whether it can be dissolved and how long it usually lasts in that area.
- Ask whether treating both on the same day makes sense for you or whether staging them is better.
- Ask how the clinic quotes price, per area, by the amount of product or per visit.
Reasons a provider may say no or ask you to wait
A provider may decline or delay treatment during pregnancy or breastfeeding, with an active skin infection or cold sore in the area, with certain medications such as blood thinners, or with certain neuromuscular or autoimmune conditions. Ask a licensed provider.
Read our guides to Botox and dermal fillers, plus lip filler if lips are your focus. See what drives Botox cost and lip filler cost, and how timing differs in how long does Botox last and how long do dermal fillers last.
Questions about Botox vs filler
Is Botox or filler better for forehead lines?
Forehead lines that appear with movement usually respond to a neuromodulator. Deep lines that stay at rest sometimes need a combined plan. A provider can tell the difference by watching your face move.
Is a lip flip the same as lip filler?
No. A lip flip uses a neuromodulator in the muscle of the upper lip so it rolls slightly outward, while lip filler adds volume. Read how long does a lip flip last for more.
Can I get Botox and filler on the same day?
Many clinics offer both in one visit. Some providers prefer to stage them. This is a decision for your provider.
Which one lasts longer?
Filler usually lasts longer than a neuromodulator, but the range is wide and depends on the product, the area and your body. Neither result is permanent.
Is filler more painful than Botox?
Filler injections often feel like more pressure and many products contain a numbing agent. Most people describe both as manageable. Ask your provider what comfort options they offer.
General information, not medical advice. A licensed provider decides whether a treatment is right for you.
Performed by licensed medical professionals. Who may perform it depends on your state's rules.