BOTOX®

OTOX® is the name most people think of when wanting to effectively treat and diminish the appearance of wrinkles and for good reason. This wrinkle relaxer is derived from Botulinum Toxin Type A, which temporarily relaxes the muscle contractions that are responsible for causing wrinkling. The medical professionals at the Aesthetic Center of Gainesville, GA use BOTOX® to treat moderate to severe scowl lines and crow’s feet. With BOTOX®, patients can expect results to last up to 4 months and subsequent treatments can be safely tolerated multiple times per year.

BOTOX® is administered during an in-office appointment that typically takes about 30 minutes. The depth, length, quantity and location of wrinkles varies for each patient. Therefore, the injection treatment, including the dosage and injection location, is tailored during the procedure. Patients will be marked for the specific areas on the face that are going to be treated. The injection is given through a syringe to localized areas on the face. Patients will feel a small prick as the needle inserts through the skin, but no continued discomfort after the procedure is completed.

Immediately following a series of BOTOX® injections, there will be some mild swelling and redness at the injection site. This will subside a few hours after the procedure. Patients can resume their normal activities immediately, but exercise should be avoided for a few hours. It is also recommended that patients keep their heads elevated for the first 8-10 hours. Results following BOTOX® will become apparent within 4-7 days. About a week after treatment, patients will notice an inability to fully move portions of their forehead. With limited movement, wrinkles will improve in appearance. The result is skin that appears smooth and soft.

IS IT SAFE?

BOTOX® is approved by the FDA and has a long, safe history. It is administered in over 75 countries and consistently ranks as the most popular cosmetic procedure in America. However, even with its popularity, BOTOX® is a drug and should only be administered by a qualified medical practitioner.

COMPARABLE MEDICATION?

In 2009, BOTOX® gained competition when Xeomin® (abobotulinumtoxinA) was developed, approved by the FDA, and made available to the general public. Dysport also entered the market as a strong competitor. Each of these drugs are used to relax the facial muscles that cause wrinkles and frown lines. There has been much debate as to which drug is superior. Each have their advantages. Some distinct differences can be discussed during your consultation.  

BOTOX® OR FILLER?

Injectable fillers such as Restylane®, Juvéderm® and Perlane® help decrease wrinkles by adding volume to certain facial structures, which creates the appearance of smooth skin. BOTOX®, which temporarily freezes the underlying muscle, offers a similar result, with a different approach. A skilled practitioner will be able to determine if a filler material or a product like BOTOX® would garner the best results.  

WHAT AGE SHOULD I START?

Individuals who wish to soften and decrease facial lines and wrinkles may be candidates for BOTOX®. The most common age to receive BOTOX® injections is between 30-55. However, it is also common for patients younger and older to receive injections.  

HOW LONG DOES IT LAST?

BOTOX® is not a permanent fix. Results will last for several months - sometimes longer - but they will not last forever. Qualified injectors will tell you there is good news and bad news when it comes to BOTOX®. The good news is, if you are not happy with your results, the results will only last a few months. Likewise, the bad news is, if you love your results (which most people do), the results will only last a few months.  Regardless, many patients recognize even the temporary results are worth feeling and looking younger. 

Looking for a way to smooth your skin and get rid of lines and wrinkles? At our office, we offer BOTOX® to effectively make your skin look years younger naturally. If you want to learn more about this highly sought after injectable, give our office a call today to schedule a consultation.