Botox Cosmetic
As we get older, wrinkles begin to line our once-smooth face.The natural, physical display of our emotions, such as laughter and frowns, leave their stamp around our lips and dyes. Though some companies offer creams that claim to lessen the appearance of lines and wrinkles, physician-administered treatment is the only way to effect real change in moderate to severe lines, especially that tough spot between the brows. The injection of Botulinum Toxin (BOTOX®) can fill in various facial furrows caused over time by natural muscle movement.
BOTOX® has proven popular with patients, as the treatment is simple, quick and nonsurgical, and you can often see a difference after only a few days. However, the effects are not permanent; you will have to return for treatment after a few months. How often you must go back depends on factors such as skin elasticity, age and treatment site.
Is This Procedure for You?
BOTOX® is suitable for people of all ages, except those who are pregnant or breastfeeding, allergic to ingredients in BOTOX® orhave an infection in the area to be treated. Those who have neuromuscular disorders should proceed with caution, as they may experience serious side effects from the treatment. Discuss with Dr. Houston, Laurie or Sissy if you have such a disorder or any other concerns.
Procedure Details
Initial Consultation
In your initial consultation, Laurie, Sissy or Jonathan will evaluate your health, discuss your medical history and assess the contours of your face. They will then review your goals and make recommendations based on their evaluation. The techniques used in BOTOX® injection will be described in detail, and informational materials will be provided. Be sure to notify them of any medicine you are taking and if you have any allergies, active skin issues or illnesses that affect your nerves and muscles.
What to expect
In most cases, the procedure will be performed on an outpatient basis and will typically take about 10 minutes.
During the Procedure
Generally, no anesthesia is required in BOTOX® injections, although sometimes topical anesthetic cream will be used to numb the area. You will be asked to move certain facial muscles in order to determine the best points to inject BOTOX®. The substance will be injected directly into the muscles atseveral points in the area to be treated.
Post-Procedure
After the procedure, you are free to continue with your normal activities. You may experience some side effects, such as eyelid droop and nausea, but these will disappear soon. Other possible side effects include pain, swelling, bruising, infection and redness.
Discuss with your injector how often you should repeat BOTOX® treatments. Generally, results lasts 3-4 months.