Botox
Botox is an injection that relaxes the specific muscles causing expression lines, which softens wrinkles on the forehead and around the eyes. Each appointment takes only a few minutes, and results last about four to six months.
Botox injections are used for both therapeutic and cosmetic purposes. Unlike other fillers, which are injected just beneath the skin, Botox is injected directly into the muscle. Because Botox is made of a neurotoxin, it blocks signals between the muscle and the brain, ultimately preventing muscle contraction in a localized area. When the muscle relaxes, wrinkles smooth out and soften. Performed correctly, these injections only affect targeted muscles while still allowing for facial expression. Botox can be used for any type of wrinkle that has not been caused by sun damage or stretching of the skin due to gravity. Results are usually best on expression lines, such as those around the eyes and forehead.
Did you know…
that 11 million women have undergone Botox? In fact, the American Society of Plastic Surgeons reports that it is the most common cosmetic treatment requested in America, with numbers at an all-time high. More than a million treatments are performed every year, and it isn’t just the rich and famous indulging in the liquid facelift. People of all economic backgrounds get Botox because of its affordability.
Frequently Asked Questions
Am I a candidate for Botox treatments?
If you are between the ages of 18 and 65, consult with your dermatologist to find out if Botox is right for you. The best candidates for cosmetic Botox treatments are usually men and women bothered by facial lines and wrinkles, particularly those along the forehead and between the eyes. You should not get Botox injections if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, or if you suffer from any type of neurological disease.
What should I expect when getting Botox?
Botox injections are in-office procedures performed in just a few minutes. In fact, you can schedule a Botox injection for your lunch hour or on your way home from work. Injections use a very fine needle, which is inserted into the facial muscles. There is very little discomfort during the injection.
Are there any special instructions I will need to follow after getting Botox?
There is a short recovery period of about 48 hours after Botox. During this time you may notice bruising or a mild headache. Avoid rubbing the treated areas, and do not lie down for the first few hours after the injections. Results are noticeable but usually begin to fade within 4 to 6 months, so you will need to return for retreatment periodically.