Microneedling or Botox: How to Know Which is Right for You
As we age, our skin naturally loses its elasticity and begins to show signs of aging, such as wrinkles, fine lines, and a loss of volume. While both microneedling and botox are popular non-surgical treatments for rejuvenating the skin, they work in different ways and target different concerns. So how do you know if microneedling or botox is right for you?
Understanding Microneedling
Microneedling is a minimally invasive procedure that involves using a device with tiny needles to create controlled injuries in the skin. This process stimulates the body’s natural healing response, leading to increased collagen and elastin production. At Tannan Plastic Surgery, we use a cutting edge product called Morpheus8, which does Microneedling with radiofrequency skin tightening. Morpheus8 Microneedling can help to:
- Reduce fine lines and wrinkles
- Improve skin texture and tone
- Minimize acne scars
- Shrink pores
- Debulk unwanted neck/chin fat
Understanding Botox
Botox is a neurotoxin that is injected into specific muscles to temporarily paralyze them. Botox is a targeted treatment used to address wrinkles in specific areas. Botox cannot be injected widely all over the face. Tannan Plastic Surgery also offers other types of neurotoxin products such as Jeuveau and Daxxify which work similarly to Botox. When used in cosmetic procedures, Botox can help to:
- Smooth out wrinkles, especially forehead lines, crow’s feet, and frown lines between the eyebrows
- Lift the brow
- Reduce a gummy smile
- Lift the corners of the mouth
- Reduce bunny lines
- Reduce neck bands
Microneedling or Botox: Which Treatment is Right for You?
When deciding between microneedling or botox, the best treatment for you will depend on your individual needs and goals. We like to think of Botox as a Band-Aid; useful only in the areas it is injected. Meanwhile, think of Microneedling, Laser, and Skin Care as preventive maintenance for your face – incorporating different scientific ways to improve skin quality, texture, tone and tightness of the entire face and neck.
Now, over time, regular Botox use can make those wrinkles from repeated facial expressions fade completely. Most people require Botox treatments every three to four months to maintain their desired results.
Both of these techniques are best when done together as part of a treatment care plan tailored to you. Here are some factors to consider:
- Age: Younger patients may benefit more from regular microneedling to prevent future signs of aging, while older patients may prefer Botox to address existing wrinkles while doing microneedling, too. That combo treatment can help to even out the canvas of older texturized skin.
- Skin Concerns: If you have fine lines, wrinkles, and a loss of volume, Botox may be a good option. If you have acne scars, large pores, or uneven skin texture, microneedling may be more beneficial.
- Desired Results: If you want a subtle refresh to softly improve your full face texture, microneedling may be a better choice. If you want a more dramatic and immediate result to fix specific, visible wrinkles that worsen with facial expressions, Botox may be a better option.
When choosing between microneedling or botox, it’s important to consult with a board-certified plastic surgeon to determine the best treatment plan for you. They can assess your skin and discuss your goals to recommend the most effective treatment or combination of treatments. Contact us today (919) 797-0996 to schedule a consultation with Dr. Shruti Tannan.
