Botox and Facial Filler FAQs in Virginia, Washington D.C. and Maryland

What are facial fillers?

Facial fillers, also referred to as injectable fillers, can restore a more youthful appearance to the face by minimizing the appearance of lines, wrinkles and other skin depressions. When injected beneath the skin, facial fillers plump and smooth surface irregularities and sunken areas of the face. There are many different facial fillers including Restylane, Captique, Radiesse, Juvederm, Artefill, Zyplast,  and Cosmoderm.

What is Botox?

Botox is a non-surgical injection which may be used to temporarily reduce the appearance of some lines and wrinkles. Botox works by temporarily paralyzing and relaxing the muscle responsible for a given wrinkle. Crow’s feet, frown lines, worry lines and lines on the neck can all be treated. Botox can also be used to treat migraine headaches, excessive sweating, and muscle spasms in the eyes and neck.

Botox was FDA approved for use in the U.S. in 1989 and has had an extremely safe track record.  Botox to the frown lines is the most common cosmetic procedure performed in the United States.  Dr. Naderi has patients in their early 20’s who come in for Botox to prevent wrinkles as well as patients all the way up to their 90’s who get Botox to prevent highlighting and worsening of wrinkles.  Botox can reduce an angry or sad look with just a few drops.  The effects take up to a week to maximize and can last about 4 months.

Is Botox or a facial filler right for me?

Botox or a facial filler may be right for you if you’re seeking quick improvement in facial lines and wrinkles without significant downtime or significant cost.

What does a consultation for injectable fillers or Botox entail?

During the consultation, Dr. Naderi will examine your facial skin, take a medical history, and discuss your goals. A course of treatment will be recommended and all aspects of the procedure will be explained including the technique,  the risks, costs and so on.

Where are Botox and facial filler injections performed?

Dr. Naderi performs Botox and facial filler injections in his office.

Is anesthesia used for Botox and facial filler injections?

Botox and facial filler injections may be performed without anesthesia. In some cases, a topical numbing agent, ice or dental blocks may be used.

How long do Botox and facial filler injections take to perform?

Botox and facial filler injections are quick in-office treatments that take just five to ten minutes to complete.

Do Botox and facial filler injections involve much pain?

There is generally mild pain associated with Botox and facial filler injections and any discomfort that patients do experience tends to be readily bearable and brief.  Ice packs or numbing techniques make the procedure much more pleasant.

What is the recovery like after a Botox or facial filler injection?

Botox and facial fillers are associated with little downtime. Though some minor bruising can occur, this usually fades quickly.

Will I need to take time off from work after a Botox or facial filler injection?

Botox and facial fillers are associated with little downtime and most patients are able to return to work right after treatment.

Are Botox and facial filler injections covered by insurance?

Insurance usually does not cover Botox and facial filler injections if they are performed for purely cosmetic purposes. Some degree of coverage may be available when treating scars or indentations resulting from injury or accident or when using Botox to treat migraines. Patients should be sure to check with their own insurance company.

Can I finance the Botox or facial filler procedure?

Financing is available for many plastic surgery procedures.   Dr. Naderi is a firm believer that “elective cosmetic procedures should not place any undue financial or emotional burdens on patients” and often discourages his patients from financing transient procedures.  Rhinoplasty is amongst some exceptions since the procedure is a one-time operation and the results last a lifetime and may significantly improve an individual’s self-confidence.

How long do the results of Botox and facial fillers last?

The results of Botox usually last about four months. The duration of results with facial fillers will vary according to the particular filler. Most collagen injections last two to three months while hyaluronic acid fillers (Restylane, Juvederm) generally last up to six months.  Radiesse can last one to two years. Artefill is the only FDA approved safe permanent filler.