Botox and fillers are both quick injections, but they fix different kinds of wrinkles. This guide explains which lines respond to which, and how visitors to Seoul can plan either one safely.
Botox is better for dynamic wrinkles caused by movement, such as forehead lines, frown lines and crow's feet, because it relaxes the muscles that crease the skin. Dermal fillers are better for static folds and volume loss, such as smile lines, marionette lines and hollow areas, because hyaluronic acid gel physically fills and supports the tissue. Many faces need both. At Dernia Clinic Myeongdong in Seoul, wrinkle Botox starts from ₩39,000 per area and HA filler from ₩150,000 per cc (KRW, excluding 10% VAT).
Prices are in Korean won, exclude 10% VAT and are confirmed by a doctor at consultation.
Botox vs fillers: what is the difference?
Botox is a botulinum toxin that temporarily relaxes specific muscles. When a muscle stops contracting so strongly, the skin above it stops folding into lines. Dermal filler is a hyaluronic acid (HA) gel placed under the skin to restore volume and lift or soften a fold. One changes movement; the other changes shape.
That difference decides which treatment suits which wrinkle. A line that only appears when you frown or smile is usually a Botox line. A fold that is there when your face is at rest, or a shadow caused by lost volume, is usually a filler concern.
Which wrinkles does Botox treat best?
Botox works best on dynamic wrinkles in the upper face:
- Forehead lines from raising the eyebrows
- Frown lines(the "11 lines") between the brows
- Crow's feet at the outer corners of the eyes
Results start to show in a few days, settle at about two weeks and usually last three to four months. Early, fine expression lines can soften almost completely; deeper etched lines improve but may need additional skin treatment. See our wrinkle Botox page and the forehead wrinkles guide.
Which wrinkles do dermal fillers treat best?
Filler works best on static folds and volume loss, mostly in the mid and lower face:
- Nasolabial folds(smile lines) from nose to mouth
- Marionette lines from the corners of the mouth
- Hollow temples, flat cheeks and a recessed chin that make the face look tired
Filler results are visible immediately once swelling settles and last roughly 6–18 months depending on the product and area. Learn more on the dermal filler page and the smile lines guide.
Botox vs filler: side-by-side comparison
| Wrinkle Botox | HA dermal filler | |
|---|---|---|
| How it works | Relaxes muscle movement | Adds volume and support |
| Best for | Forehead, frown lines, crow's feet | Smile lines, marionette lines, hollows |
| Onset | 3–7 days, full at about 2 weeks | Immediate |
| Duration | About 3–4 months | About 6–18 months |
| Downtime | None | Mild swelling for 1–3 days |
| Priced by | Area and toxin brand | cc and filler brand |
| Reversible | Wears off on its own | HA can be dissolved with an enzyme |
Who is a good candidate for Botox or filler?
Usually a good fit
- Botox: lines that appear mainly with expression
- Filler: folds or hollows visible at rest
- Adults wanting a refreshed, natural look
- Visitors who want a quick treatment with little downtime
Talk to the doctor first
- Pregnancy or breastfeeding
- Neuromuscular disorders (for Botox)
- Active skin infection, cold sores or a recent procedure in the area
- Previous permanent fillers or unknown products in the face
Can you get Botox and filler together?
Yes, and many people do. A common plan is Botox for the forehead and frown lines plus a small amount of filler for smile lines or the chin. Combining them often gives a more balanced result than pushing either treatment too far. For example, very deep frown lines that remain visible at rest may need Botox to stop the folding and a tiny amount of soft filler or a skin booster to soften the etched crease. Equally, crow's feet can look worse when the upper cheek has lost volume, so a little cheek support may help Botox look more natural around the eyes.
When people start treatment in their late twenties or thirties, Botox alone is often enough. Over time, volume loss becomes a bigger part of the picture, and fillers or collagen-stimulating treatments play a larger role. A good doctor will treat the cause rather than simply adding product to every line. Your doctor will decide whether to do both on the same day; read can I get Botox and filler on the same day for the details.
What happens on treatment day
- English consultation. A licensed doctor watches your face at rest and in motion, explains which lines are muscle-driven and which are volume-related, and agrees a plan and price with you.
- Photos and cleansing. Standard photos are taken for your record, and the skin is cleansed and disinfected.
- Numbing if needed. Botox usually needs none or a cold pack. For filler, numbing cream is applied for about 20–30 minutes.
- Injection. Botox takes about 10–15 minutes. Filler takes about 20–30 minutes, and the doctor checks symmetry as they go.
- Aftercare briefing. You receive written aftercare in English and a contact number in case anything feels unusual.
How long do Botox and filler last?
Botox wears off as nerves gradually form new connections to the muscle, which is why most people repeat it every three to four months. Some people find that regular treatment helps them break the habit of frowning, so lines form more slowly over time.
Filler lasts longer because the gel itself stays in place until the body slowly breaks it down. Areas that move a lot, such as around the mouth, tend to absorb filler faster than areas that move less, such as the chin or temples. Firmer, more cross-linked fillers also tend to last longer than soft ones. Your doctor will explain the expected duration for the specific product and area you choose; see Botox results for a fuller timeline.
Is it safe? Risks and side effects
Both treatments are among the most common aesthetic procedures in Korea, but they are medical procedures and should be done by a licensed doctor.
- Botox: small bumps or bruises at injection points, a mild headache, and rarely a temporarily heavy brow or drooping eyelid if toxin spreads. These effects wear off as the toxin does.
- Filler: swelling, tenderness and bruising are common for a few days. Lumps or asymmetry can usually be adjusted. The most serious risk is vascular occlusion, where filler blocks a blood vessel; it is rare but can damage skin or, very rarely, affect vision. Doctors reduce the risk with careful technique and keep hyaluronidase on hand to dissolve HA quickly.
Report pain, blanching or color change after filler right away. See side effects and when to contact us.
How much do Botox and filler cost in Seoul (2026)?
| Option | Details | Price (KRW) |
|---|---|---|
| Botox, Korean toxin | One area / three areas | ₩39,000 / ₩99,000 |
| Xeomin | One area / three areas | ₩79,000 / ₩199,000 |
| Allergan Botox | One area / three areas | ₩99,000 / ₩259,000 |
| Korean HA filler | 1cc / 2cc | ₩150,000 / ₩280,000 |
| Restylane | 1cc | ₩290,000 |
| Juvéderm | 1cc | ₩350,000 |
Prices exclude 10% VAT. The tourist VAT refund on cosmetic procedures ended on January 1, 2026 — see the VAT refund guide. More on the Botox price page.
Planning Botox or filler around your Seoul trip
- Book ahead. Send your concerns and dates through our consultation form.
- Avoid your arrival day. Schedule injections from day two so you are rested.
- Treat early in your trip. Botox takes about two weeks to settle, and filler swelling needs a few days, so earlier is better if you want a follow-up check.
- Getting here. Dernia is in Myeongdong, near Myeongdong Station (Line 4) and Euljiro 1-ga Station (Line 2).
Flying home? Most people can fly the day after Botox or filler. Avoid alcohol, saunas and pressing on treated areas for the first day. Read flying after Botox and fillers before you book your return flight.
Frequently asked questions
Is Botox or filler better for wrinkles?
Botox is better for lines caused by expression, such as forehead and frown lines. Filler is better for folds and hollows that are visible at rest.
Which lasts longer, Botox or filler?
Filler usually lasts longer, about 6–18 months depending on the area and product. Wrinkle Botox lasts about 3–4 months.
Can filler be used on forehead lines?
Sometimes, in small amounts for etched lines, but the forehead has a higher risk of vascular problems. Botox is usually the first choice there.
Does Botox or filler hurt more?
Botox uses tiny needles and feels like quick pinches. Filler can feel more pressure, so numbing cream is used and many fillers contain lidocaine.
Can I get both on one visit?
Often yes. Your doctor decides the order and amounts to keep the result natural.
How much is Botox in Seoul?
At Dernia Clinic Myeongdong, wrinkle Botox starts from ₩39,000 per area with Korean toxin, excluding 10% VAT. Imported brands cost more.
Not sure whether you need Botox or filler?
Share your concerns and travel dates. A doctor examines your face in person, explains which lines respond to which treatment, and confirms your plan and price in English.
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This article is for general information and does not replace a medical consultation. Results vary between individuals, and suitability, treatment plan and final price are confirmed by a licensed doctor after an in-person examination. Dernia Clinic Myeongdong does not publish patient testimonials or before-and-after claims.