There has been lots of debate about dermal fillers versus bio stimulators over the last few years but with more choice in cosmetic procedures than ever before how do you decide what treatment to choose? And is it really as simple as this versus that.
You might have also heard all sorts of talk in the media about how fillers are ‘out’, and bio stimulators are ‘in’. Does this remind anyone of skinny jeans?!
Some celebrities have even come out to talk about how they have chosen to have their fillers dissolved in order to achieve a more natural look. Could this be the same celebrities that once claimed they hadn’t undergone any work, yet have become barely recognisable?
Fortunately, here in New Zealand the trend has always been towards a soft and natural look and when it comes to filler removal the majority of patients seen at Clinic 42 have either been treated overseas or elsewhere by inexperienced practitioners.
For those of you who are new to cosmetic medicine, let me break it down in layperson’s terms. The three most powerful tools (or products) in cosmetic medicine which can potentially help and where most patients start are:
1. Botulinum toxin – softens and aids in prevention of fine lines and wrinkles and reduces excess sweating. Still the most requested cosmetic procedures in the world.
2. Dermal fillers – restore volume and fullness lost from ageing, weight loss etc. They can also be used to enhance facial shape and are popular to create fuller lips.
3. Bio stimulators – stimulate the body to lay down new elastin and collagen, creating a firmer more luminous appearance.
If you’re starting your cosmetic treatments at an earlier age (how lucky are you being born in the era of bio stims!) you may well want to swap bio stimulators and dermal fillers around to maintain plump luminous youthful appearing skin as long as possible.
The main thing to remember about bio stimulators is that they’re not going to give you visible results as you leave the clinic; they are a slow burn product so think of it as a long-term investment in your skin.
The majority of patients who have incorporated it into their treatment schedules are having it post-dermal filler for volume loss as an icing on the cake treatment, or are younger patients who lack moisture and are looking to restore the glow.
But in the end, there is no one product that does it all, no quick fixes, and no bargain basement options. Be very wary of anyone who claims that there are.
It very much comes down to your individual concerns and goals, sitting down and discussing these with your practitioner, and deciding on what you are comfortable with. Not everyone has the same pain tolerance level or budget, and of course there’s the skill of your practitioner and the products they have available to them.
Here at Clinic 42 we are fortunate to have some of the most experienced doctors and nurses in the industry as well as access to a broad range of brands.
If you’re interested in finding out more about any of the treatments available at Clinic 42, visit the website clinic42.co.nz.
