What should I have done first: Botox/filler?

Question

I'm 33 and have never had any cosmetic procedures. However I would like to get Botox to dynamic forehead lines (faint lines visible when I raise my eyebrows) and fillers to naso labial folds. As I haven't had anything before I would prefer to get one area treated at a time. Which area should be given priority and what else can be done to appear more youthful? I have quit smoking, and began a skincare regime using a cleaner, toner, BHA exfoliant, serum and moisturiser. What else should I do? Thanks

Mitchel Goldman, MD · Answer

Botox is a great first-line treatment for the early signs of aging. By smoothing out the forehead, you attain a younger look overall. That said, if the nasolabial folds bother you more, then do them first, especially since you can’t see the forehead lines unless you raise your brows. It all comes down to your preference, not someone else’s judgment of you.
The new skincare routine you have plus sun avoidance will keep you looking young for quite some time. I’d suggest adding in a laser treatment to help your skin stay thick and healthy. Please consult a board-certified dermatologist who is an expert in anti-aging techniques.

Camille Cash, MD · Answer

I would recommend beginning with the Botox as it relaxes your look, which may influence how you proceed with fillers.  In addition to the skin care regime you have in place, be sure to use sunscreen every day.

Anteneh Roba, MD · Answer

it really doesn’t matter much which procedure you get done first. It all depends on which area you want treated first.

Kory Kitagawa, MD · Answer

After a healthy lifestyle, great skin care products and sun avoidance, Botox is the first thing I’d recommend for looking younger. Just smoothing out your forehead rejuvenates you by a few years. You might want to start laser therapy every two years or so to encourage your skin to look and act younger. A board-certified dermatologist will help you pick and schedule the best treatments for you.

Julie Forero, DO · Answer

Dear Tannyleics,
Congratulations on quitting smoking!  That is the most important thing you could do for your health, including your skin health.  If you are new to cosmetic procedures, botox is a great place to start, although honestly it doesn't matter which procedure you have done first.  Botox can be very gratifying and if you have botox injected first, you can schedule a 2 week follow-up appointment for a botox touch-up, in case you need it, and have filler injected at the follow up visit.  In regards to the filler, please have a thorough discussion with your dermatologist about your facial structure.  Correcting any volume loss defects in your midface (cheekbone area) may improve the appearance of your nasolabial folds by treating the cause of your nasolabial folds.  Enjoy!

What should I have done first: Botox/filler?

Answers (9)

Answer: Should I do Botox or Filler First? Botox Is Great for First Treatment

Answer: Should I do Botox or Filler First? Botox Is Great for First Treatment

Answer: Botox then filler

Answer: Botox then filler

Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Botox

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.

What should I have done first: Botox/filler?

Answers (9)

Answer: Should I do Botox or Filler First? Botox Is Great for First Treatment

Answer: Should I do Botox or Filler First? Botox Is Great for First Treatment

Answer: Botox then filler

Answer: Botox then filler

Browse related questions

Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Botox

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.