What's behind the cost of Botox and injectable fillers?

The price of popular cosmetic treatments like Botox and dermal fillers is a factor that many people take into consideration before booking their appointment. While you certainly want to choose a provider and treatment option that fits within your budget, you also need to be careful of providers who lack sufficient training and expertise and who could put your health and safety at risk.

To help you get the most bang for your buck while ensuring you're getting an authentic product administered by a trained professional, consider these tips.

How much do fillers and Botox cost?

Knowing what the average cost of fillers and Botox in your area can help you gauge whether or not a certain provider's price is fair and/or suspiciously low. According to 2018 pricing data from the ASPS, the average cost of hyaluronic acid fillers is $682 per syringe. Most people require more than one syringe to achieve the desired results.

Botox, on the other hand, is measured in units and typically costs around $10 to $15 per unit. An average dosage of 30-40 units might be used to treat the forehead and eye area, for example, making the total cost around $300 to $600.

Keep in mind, however, that these averages can vary based on your location. So, do your research by comparing prices from a few reputable providers in your area before making a decision.

If you are working cosmetic treatments into your recurring budget, you'll also want to factor in approximately how long each treatment will last before requiring a touch-up visit. In general, hyaluronic acid fillers can last anywhere from 6 to 18 months, while Botox usually lasts 3 to 6 months. So, while the upfront costs of fillers, for example, might seem higher, know that you may not need another treatment for a year or more.

Why "bargain shopping" for Botox isn't your best bet

When pricing out an injectable filler or Botox treatment, consider that the cost of the product is only one component of the total price. You're also paying for a trained, certified and experienced professional to properly administer those products to safely achieve beautiful, natural-looking results.

For this reason, bargain hunting for Botox, fillers and other cosmetic treatments isn't recommended. It is unfortunately still common to hear horror stories of untrained, unlicensed providers offering cosmetic services at a steep discount and causing long-lasting damage to patients. This is a key reason why choosing a board-certified plastic surgeon, or a medical spa facility operated by a board-certified plastic surgeon, is one of the most important decisions you can make when shopping for injectables.

A few red flags to look for when choosing a filler or Botox provider include:

• Prices that seem too good to be true
• Lack of information or before and after pictures on their website or in their office
• Refusal to show you the product packaging or labeling
• A dirty, disorganized office or clinic

It is also worth mentioning that while "Botox parties" have become popular, these events are not a safe way to receive injections unless they are carefully administered in a clinic environment. Botox, fillers and other professional cosmetic treatments should always be performed in a sterile medical office and by a trained professional.

How to save on Botox and fillers the safe way

Fortunately, there are many different ways to help make the cost of fillers and Botox more affordable while still getting safe, high-quality results. The best way to save is to look for promotions from your trusted provider – again, being wary of low-ball price offers from questionable sources. Some plastic surgeons will offer a discount if you purchase multiple syringes or units, or discounts when packaging surgical and nonsurgical services. Others may have rewards or loyalty programs that make treatments more affordable over time.

Another option is to discuss financing during your consultation. Some offices may offer financing options so that you can pay for your treatment in smaller chunks over a longer period of time, rather than paying in one lump sum upfront.

If the cost of fillers or Botox is a concern for you, discuss your specific goals with a board-certified plastic surgeon and don't be afraid to be honest about your budget. Working together, you can find the right treatment options that will help you look refreshed without breaking the bank.