Cosmetic injectables are practically ubiquitous but still somehow shrouded in mystery. We want to feel confident, look good, and make our own choices, which often leads to investing in modern skincare techniques. But because we're unwilling to openly and freely discuss Botox or facial fillers (or have been taught not to), most of us venture to a consultation or decide against them without knowing much information—including how much they cost.
So, let's talk about injections, shall we? We asked top dermatologists Robert Anolik, MD, Joshua Zeichner, MD, as well as Lisa Goodman, the CEO and founderGoodSkin Clinics and RMÈD by GoodSkin, about the honest, unexaggerated pricing for injections and what each formula and technique will do to your face. Ahead, learn how much Botox and filler really cost (and why).
Meet the Experts
- Robert Anolik, MD, is a board-certified dermatologist specializing in cosmetic dermatology and laser skin surgery. He is also a professor of dermatology at the NYU School of Medicine.
- Joshua Zeichner, MD, is an Associate Professor of Dermatology and the Director of Cosmetic & Clinical Research in Dermatology at Mount Sinai Hospital in New York City.
- Lisa Goodman is the CEO and founderGoodSkin Clinics and RMÈD by GoodSkin.
What Is Botox?
Botox is a neurotoxin used to treat signs of aging. When injected into facial muscles, it temporarily reduces the appearance of wrinkles by blocking nerve signals to the muscles, causing them to relax and create less motion.
Cost of Most Common Botox Treatments
- Brow Lift: $450-$600
- Jaw Slimming: $800-$1200
- Neck Lift: $850-$950
- Chin Dimpling: $250-$350
What Is Filler?
Typically made of hyaluronic acid, collagen, or calcium hydroxyapatite, facial fillers are substances injected into the skin to restore volume, smooth out wrinkles, and enhance facial contours.
Cost of Most Common Filler Treatments
- Lip: On average, lip filler treatment typically ranges from $500 to $2000 per treatment.
- Under eyes: A short-term filler (Belotero)with the cannula technique costs $850-$1000, and a long-term filler (Volbella) with the cannula technique costs $1100-$1200.
- Tacking (restores bone loss in the cheek area): Short-term filler ranges from $800-$1000, and long-term filler ranges from $1000-$1500.
- Blanching (reduces fine lines without making the area puffy): A short-term filler with the cannula technique costs $1000-$1100, and a long-term filler with the cannula technique costs $1200-$1400.
- Calcium jowl lift (restores jawline and picks up jowls): Calcium filler with cannula technique is $2250-$2500.
"The difference between using a cannula and a 'needle injection' technique is cannulas are blunt-tip needles that let us place filler on a plane" that helps it last longer, explains Goodman. "They look better and preserve the 'untouched look' we're known for. Also, it's a more advanced technique that ensures the patient will not leave the office bruised."
What Factors Can Influence Injectable Cost?
"The cost for these types of treatments is widely variable, as every patient needs different amounts in different areas," Anolik explains. "It could be a few hundred dollars to a few thousand. For example, a patient may have deepened nasolabial folds (smile lines) requiring multiple syringes of Restylane Defyne. Or, a patient could need a subtle lift with a small amount of Restylane-Lyft in the cheeks and mid-face. I find many of my patients will come in consistently for Dysport every three to four months on average. (Dysport spreads out a bit more, so you're able to get better global balancing, whereas Botox has a little more of an isolated effect.) Then, we will review what might be needed among the fillers. Often, more syringes of filler may be needed at first, and then we can maintain over time."
"The cost for a procedure depends on two main factors," explains Zeichner. "First, different products cost different amounts because of the technology that goes into their manufacturing. In addition, the cost depends on the injector fee. If you see a sought-after, skilled injector, you may be paying a premium for that treatment. Especially when getting injectable fillers, your treatment is dependent on the skill and aesthetic of your injector. I do not recommend compromising or purchasing a deal on websites like Groupon."
How Many Units Or Syringes Are Used Per Treatment?
Units required may vary depending on the treatment selected, but frown lines, for example, can require around 20 units. Forehead botox may require up to 20 units as well.
He continues, "The price per vial or for the entire treatment varies based on practice style. At my practice, we do charge a fee per unit of Dysport and per syringe of Restylane. Some respectable cosmetic dermatology practices around the country may have a fee per treatment instead."
How Long Do Cosmetic Injectable Results Last?
"Shorter-term fillers can last from six to 11 months based on the patient's rate of aging (i.e., smoking, drinking, sun exposure, genetics), while the longer-term fillers last about one to two years," Goodman explains.
The Final Takeaway
The cost of injections will vary depending on your doctor, the procedure you are getting, and how many units you require. It's always a good idea to have a consultation before committing to injections so you can get an idea of the cost and what the results will look like. While it may be possible to get relatively affordable injections, don't skimp—this is your face, after all!
