Dynamic wrinkles are caused by contractions of the delicate underlying facial muscles every time you smile, laugh or frown. These lines caused by facial muscles can give a person an angry, tired or sad appearance — even when they are not experiencing that emotion. The more emotion you show, the deeper these wrinkles and lines are likely to be. Now, a mode of wrinkle reduction using neuromodulators is performed by our medical providers for patients in our region so you can prevent the formation or wrinkles.
What are neuromodulators?
Neuromodulators have been safely used for many years to treat a variety of conditions including eye disorders, wrinkles, headaches, migraines, TMJ and even excessive underarm sweating. Botox Cosmetic®, Dysport® and Xeomin® are all FDA approved neuromodulators derived from natural, purified protein. They have proven to be safe and effective when used to improve the appearance of frown lines, forehead creases and “crow’s feet”. They are a remarkable treatment for “dynamic wrinkles” resulting from repeated use of facial muscles.
How do neuromodulators work?
Neuromodulators actually prevent wrinkles from appearing by preventing the contraction of underlying muscles that cause wrinkles. Neuromodulators such as Botox Cosmetic, Dysport, and Xeomin block impulses from the nerve to the tiny facial muscles that are related to expression lines. After treatment, the overlying skin remains smooth and unwrinkled while the untreated facial muscles contract in a normal fashion, allowing your normal facial expression to be unaffected.
Do neuromodulators have limitations?
Unfortunately, neuromodulators are a temporary solution for the treatment of dynamic wrinkles. The effects of the treatments last from four to six months. You will need to have treatments about two to three times a year. Early clinical studies indicate that after receiving neuromodulator treatments over time, there appears to be a longer lasting effect. However, this duration varies from patient to patient. Longer lasting results could be due to the relaxing of the skin in that area and breaking the habit of certain facial expressions.
Can I have neuromodulator treatments if I take other drugs?
Most patients can usually be treated with neuromodulators regardless of other drugs used. However, some drugs that interfere with nerve impulses to muscles could alter the effects. It is important to let your doctor know what drugs you are taking during your consultation before undergoing any medical procedure.
What results can I expect?
If dynamic wrinkles make you look older than you are, cosmetic neuromodulator treatments can smooth these out and give you a more youthful look.
During your consultation
During your consultation with our medical providers you will discuss your concerns and the changes that you’d like to make in your appearance. The doctor will explain neuromodulator treatments to you, review the procedure, and point out the risks and limitations involved. Together you will decide if neuromodulator treatments are right for you.
What is the treatment like?
Treating wrinkles with neuromodulators is a simple and safe procedure and the entire treatment takes about 10 minutes. Using a tiny micro-needle, a very small amount of the neuromodulator is injected, very precisely, into several locations on your face. Because the needle is so fine and only a small amount of liquid is used, the pain associated with the treatment is minimal. Most patients compare the sensation to a bug bite. No sedation or local anesthetic is required, and you can resume normal activities immediately. You can even drive yourself home or back to the office. You may experience some slight temporary bruising at the treatment site. This can be covered with make-up.