Aging isn't something we should fear or even try to avoid. With treatments like Botox, the cosmetic concerns that arise over time can be well-managed. We are proud to provide our patients with this proven nonsurgical treatment.
What Is Botox?
Botox Cosmetic is an FDA-approved injectable drug developed for facial rejuvenation. It is derived from naturally-occurring, highly-purified protein from the bacterium Clostridium botulinum.
How Does Botox Compare To Injectable Fillers?
Botox is what we call a neuromodulator. It reduces wrinkles by relaxing the muscles that cause them. For example, Botox eliminates frown lines by softening the muscle contractions at the inner brow area. Injectable fillers work by adding volume to the subcutaneous tissue just beneath the skin. There is no comparison between the two because they work so differently. What dermal fillers do, Botox cannot. What Botox can do, dermal fillers cannot.
Botox Treatment Areas
Botox is commonly used to correct signs of aging including:
- Frown lines
- Crow's feet
- Drooping eyebrows
- Platysmal bands, horizontal lines on the neck
- Migraine headaches
Candidacy For Botox Treatment
Adults who are in good general health may achieve optimal results using Botox to correct mild to moderate signs of aging. People with a history of neuromuscular disorders or a skin condition near the injection site should discuss their situation with their provider before deciding on their ideal treatment. Botox is not approved for women who are pregnant or nursing.
How Is Botox Administered?
Botox is the original injectable cosmetic. It is administered through a series of injections across a treatment area, such as the forehead. In most cases, only a few injections are needed to achieve excellent results.
How Long Does Botox Treatment Take?
One of the significant advantages of Botox is that treatment is convenient. Before administering injections, a brief consultation is conducted to review the expected outcome and discuss questions or concerns. The injectable aspect of treatment lasts less than 10 minutes in most cases.
How Long Do The Results Of Botox Last?
Botox binds to nerve receptors to decrease muscle contractions. The full effect occurs over 5 to 7 days after treatment. The muscle relaxation that is achieved can last from 3 to 6 months, with many patients seeing their effects begin to fade somewhere around 4 months. Studies suggest that, as Botox injections are repeated over time, extended results are more likely.
How Often Do I Need Botox Injections?
On average, patients may need to repeat Botox injections every 3 to 6 months. It is important to remember that every person is unique and will respond differently to injectable treatments.
Can Botox Be Combined With Other Procedures?
Botox can safely be combined with both surgical and nonsurgical procedures. When used as a complement to surgery, injections may be scheduled after the operative area has completely healed. Botox and other injectables, such as dermal fillers, can be administered in the same office visit.
Is Botox Painful?
Botox is administered through a tiny needle. Patients can expect to feel a slight pinching sensation, if anything, as the treatment is provided. This lasts only a moment. If you are concerned about discomfort from injectable treatment, let us know. We are happy to suggest pain-reducing strategies such as ice. A topical anesthetic may also be used before treatment, although most patients find that this is unnecessary.
The Side Effects of Botox
Botox is a minimally-invasive treatment that has been used throughout the world for several years. One of the very first injectable cosmetics to be developed, Botox is approved in more than 75 countries. It has been extensively studied and proven to achieve good results with minimal risks. Over 400 peer-reviewed articles reporting the safety and efficacy of Botox have appeared in medical and scientific journals.
The most common side effects of Botox treatment include:
- Redness
- Swelling
- Bruising
- Muscle weakness near the injection site
- Headache and flu-like symptoms
Side effects from Botox treatment can last from a few minutes to several hours. None should inhibit normal activities.
Schedule A Consultation
If you are interested in Botox and want to learn more, schedule a consultation by calling (508) 567-3202. Our practice serves Fall River, Massachusetts, and surrounding areas.
