Botox + More
So, what causes the fine lines, wrinkles, and creases that are the hallmark of aging skin? Along with the usual cellular changes that come with time and damage caused by sun and free radicals in the environment, facial aging is created each time we smile, squint, frown, laugh or raise our eyebrows in surprise. Over time, these normal muscle contractions create crevices in the tissue, leaving behind furrows that are visible even when muscles are at rest.
Injectable neurotoxins (or neuromodulators) like Botox and Dysport work to temporarily interrupt the signals transmitted between muscles and nerves, weakening facial movement and allowing skin to relax and wrinkles to subside. Along with addressing the deep furrows and fine lines, injectable neurotoxins can also be used to contour the shape of the face such as relaxing the jaw line for a more sculpted appearance and creating the look of a fuller upper lip without the use of injectable fillers.
Skin Concerns
- Fine lines, wrinkles, creases, and furrows
- Facial asymmetry
- Thin upper lip
- Dimpled chin
- Contouring jaw line (masseter muscle)
Treatment Areas
- Areas impacted most by facial movement
- Glabella, commonly known as the "11's" between the brows
- Crows feet
- Furrows on the forehead
- Nasolabial folds (lines that run from nose to sides of the mouth)
- Upper lip (lip flip)
- Jaw line (masseter muscle)
What to Expect
- Appointments generally last between 15-30 minutes (including consultation). Results begin to appear in the first 48- 72 hours and are fully realized within 7-10 days.
- The results last up to 4 months for moderate to severe wrinkles and creases.
- During the consultation, the nurse injector will answer any questions and take a complete medical history to determine which of the FDA-approved neuromodulators will be the best choice to achieve your specific needs and goals
- After all makeup is removed, the nurse injector will identify the specific treatment areas, prepare the skin with an antiseptic cleanser, and apply the appropriate toxin to the treatment areas using a small needle.
Before Your Appointment
- Avoid alcohol for 48 hours prior to your appointment and avoid blood thinners like ibuprofen and fish oil 1 week prior to your appointment to minimize bruising and swelling.
- Wait 2 weeks before or after microblading before doing neurotoxin.
After Your Appointment
- Don’t lay down for 3-4 hours following treatment.
- Don’t touch your face or massage the treated area and don’t wear a baseball hat.
- Avoid strenuous physical exercise for 24 hours.
- Avoid sun exposure, tanning beds/booths, UV exposure and extreme temperatures for 24 hours.
- Drink water and avoid alcohol for 24 hours to minimize the possibility of bruising.
- As with any cosmetic injectable, patients can expect injection-related side effects at the injection site such as tenderness/discomfort, bleeding redness, bruising, and swelling. These side effects usually resolve within a few hours, but some can last a few days or longer. Report any worsening or long lasting symptoms to your healthcare provider.