What is botox
Botox is the only FDA-approved medication to treat dynamic wrinkle lines in three areas of common concern: the forehead, glabellar region (between the eyebrows), and lateral canthal lines (crow’s feet).
These three areas commonly suffer from dynamic wrinkles–created or accentuated by muscle movements.
Botox is an aesthetic treatment that eliminates muscle movement at the injection site, minimizing or even stopping those wrinkles from occurring.
Limiting the facial movements that create the telltale age lines allows the skin to smooth out and look significantly younger.
Why Should I Consider Botox?
As our bodies begin to age, several functions start to decline.
One of the most impactful is the production of collagen, the most abundant protein in our body responsible for fending off fine lines, wrinkles and sagging skin.
Other declinations, like elastin and hyaluronic acid production, also play a pivotal role in our skin’s ability to remain youthful and vibrant. Unfortunately, these changes signal the decline of our facial appearance regarding facial aging.
There is no way to prevent these changes from occurring. So even though you might be able to fend them off for a bit with preventive steps or superb genetics, aging eventually comes for us all. This means a considerable need exists for a product that can reliably fight off these changes.
Botox is performed millions of times per year. It has a dedicated group of patients who have benefited from its treatment and continue to regularly have it completed because of how good it is at turning around the clock.
How Does Botox Work?
Botox is made from a substance called botulinum toxin type A, which derives from the same bacterium that causes the well-known illness botulism.
However, the ingredients in Botox have been filtered and purified, so there is no need to worry about contracting this illness from an injection.
When that purified substance is injected into a targeted muscle in the face or body, it works as a neuromodulator; that is, it can stop the communication between the brain and the rest of the nervous system down to the smallest muscle.
This is how facial movements are limited.
The Benefits of Botox
Botox is a good option for most people, regardless of skin type, tone, or texture. However, if you are experiencing facial aging, you should schedule a consultation with our office to see if Botox is a good solution to your aesthetic conditions.
Having realistic expectations is essential, and you should only ever have Botox performed if you are trying to achieve your cosmetic goals, not someone else’s.
How is Botox Treatment Performed?
Botox is a safe and effective option for facial rejuvenation.
During treatment, low doses of Botox are injected directly into the muscles causing frown lines and wrinkles. The number of injections needed depends on various factors, including the extent and size of the treatment area.
Because the needles used for the injections are tiny, the Botox injections injected are typically not painful.
In some cases, a topical anesthetic may help prevent some of the minor pain and discomfort that comes from the injections. Talk to one of our medical professionals to learn about your options.
Can I Combine Botox with Other Cosmetic Procedures?
Yes, Botox can be combined with various aesthetic procedures, such as chemical peels, laser treatments, dermaplaning, dermal fillers, microneedling, and other popular cosmetic treatments. Let us know your aesthetic goals, and we will work with you to determine an appropriate treatment plan.
Botox Aftercare
For most patients, discomfort is minimal following Botox injections. Initial redness may occur near the injection sites. However, no downtime is required.
Patients may return to normal activities immediately following treatment, but we recommend avoiding strenuous activities for a day or so.
We let all our patients know to avoid rubbing the injection area after the procedure to prevent spreading the solution to neighboring muscles.
What Can I Expect After Botox Treatment?
It may take seven to 14 days to see the full results, which can last up to four months.
While Botox does work by stopping muscle movement in specific areas that create wrinkles, you do not have to have that “frozen” look to be effective.
An appropriate dose of Botox, placed in specific areas, can create a softening of the most severe lines while still allowing you to have facial expressions. On your visit, you can expect a thorough discussion of your goals for our providers to tailor a treatment regimen specifically for you.
