Botox
Neuromodulators (Botox) can be used to treat very specific and targeted areas of aging on the face. It is a localized treatment that works to minimize lines and wrinkles in the area where it is injected. Some of the most common areas of the face that we treat with Botox are:
- Vertical lines/frown lines between the eyebrows
- Forehead or worry lines
- Crow’s feet around the eyes
- Around the eyebrows to provide a gentle lift
- Bunny lines on the nose
- Smoker’s lines (vertical lines around the lips)
- Gummy smile
- Dimpling of the chin (“peach pit” chin or peu D’Orange chin)
- Sad ‘frowning’ corners of lips (“bitterness folds”)
- Vertical neck bands (platsymal bands)
- Masseters for facial slimming
How Neuromodulators (Botox) Work
Botox are purified proteins that come from the Clostridium Botulinum bacterium. When injected into a muscle, they stop the nerve impulse from reaching the muscle, thus preventing it from contracting as strongly. This causes the muscle to weaken and relax, allowing the overlying skin to soften and causing wrinkles in the area to disappear. Botox has been in use for many years and is approved by the FDA for the treatment of areas such as the glabellar wrinkles and crow’s feet.
There are two types of wrinkles on the face. Static (wrinkles that are present at rest) and dynamic (wrinkles that present with movement). Over the years dynamic wrinkles can change to static wrinkles as creases are permanently “etched” into the skin. Dynamic wrinkles (wrinkles with movement) disappear first. With consistent treatment and good skin care static wrinkles will begin to soften. This is also the concept behind preventative use of neuromodulators. By preventing dynamic wrinkles we can stop the progression to static wrinkles.
What to Expect During a Botox Treatment Session
Dr. Khan will use a fine needle to inject small amounts of neuromodulator into your skin and/or muscles. The number of injections administered will depend upon the size of the area being treated and the exact complaint being addressed. It usually takes about 10 minutes to administer Botox. These are quick and you can be in and out of your appointment in no time.
After the procedure, you can resume normal activities immediately. You should avoid rubbing the treated area as this may cause the product to move into another part of the face. Very few patients experience minor redness or bruising at the injection site, which can be covered with makeup with minimal problems.
Results
Final results of Botox are typically seen within 6-7 days. You can expect the results to be maintained for about 3 to 4 months before you need a touch up. Some patients who have been receiving Botox for several years report that the results last longer and find they are able to extend the interval between injections up to 5 months at times.
Safety
Botox injections are one of the safest cosmetic treatments available today. Dr. Khan, who has been extensively trained in these injections will discuss the risks and benefits with you before proceeding.