Wrinkles... who wants them?
Botox corrects dynamic wrinkles are caused by the 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. Botox Cosmetic treatments are performed by our doctor for patients in our region so they can prevent the formation of dynamic wrinkles.
What is Botox?
Botox Cosmetic is the latest advancement in botulinum toxin therapy. It is used to safely, simply and effectively improve the appearance of frown lines, forehead creases and "crow's feet." By relaxing the underlying muscles, Botox Cosmetic reduces wrinkles. Botox Cosmetic is a remarkable treatment for dynamic wrinkles resulting from repeated use of facial muscles.
Does Botox Cosmetic cause botulism?
No. The words "botulinum toxin" often bring to mind images of botulism and food poisoning. Botox Cosmetic is approved by the FDA as a safe and effective treatment for wrinkles and frown lines. Botulinum toxin has been used to treat neurological disorders for over 30 years. Additionally, the National Institutes of Health issued a consensus statement over a decade ago about the safe use of botulinum toxin for therapeutic use.
How does Botox Cosmetic work?
Botox Cosmetic actually prevents wrinkles from appearing by relaxing the underlying muscles so they don't contract. Botox Cosmetic blocks 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.
What are the limitations of Botox Cosmetic?
Unfortunately, Botox Cosmetic is a temporary solution for the treatment of dynamic wrinkles. The effects of the treatments last from 4 - 6 months. You will need to have treatments about 2 - 3 times a year. Early clinical studies indicate that after receiving Botox Cosmetic over time, there appears to be a longer lasting effect. This could be due to the relaxing of the skin in that area and breaking the habit of certain facial expressions.
Can I have Botox Cosmetic if I take other drugs?
Most patients can usually be treated with Botox Cosmetic regardless of other drugs used. However, some drugs that interfere with nerve impulses to muscles could alter the effect of Botox Cosmetic. It is important to let your doctor know what drugs you are taking during your consultation before undergoing any medical procedure.
Your Botox Cosmetic consultation
During your consultation with our physician you will discuss your concerns and the changes that you'd like to make in your appearance. The doctor will explain Botox Cosmetic treatments to you, review the procedure, and point out the risks and limitations involved. Together you will decide if Botox Cosmetic is for you.
What is a Botox Cosmetic treatment like?
Treating wrinkles with Botox Cosmetic is a simple and safe procedure and the entire treatment takes about 10 minutes.
Our doctor performs Botox Cosmetic treatments using a tiny micro-needle. A very small amount of Botox Cosmetic 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.