Non Surgical Cosmetic Procedures

Botox

Already previously extensively used in  non cosmetic medical applications, Botox  has become  extremely popular in the treatment of dynamic creases or expression lines such as, deep frown lines ,smile lines squinting lines that are the result of excessive muscle activity. By temporarily freezing  (3 to 5 month) certain muscle of facial expression  a smoother, more relaxed and more  youth full expression.

The use of Botox  has been approved by the FDA for treating wrinkles in the glabellar area. Botox therapy involves injecting small amounts of the purified toxin into the facial muscles responsible for  excessive movement associated with lines and wrinkles. A Botox injection weakens or paralyzes the muscle, thus reducing the associated lines and wrinkles. The most common areas that Botox therapy is used are the lines between the eyes, forehead wrinkles, crow's feet, necklines, and on occasion around the mouth. Botox therapy is temporary - Our doctors have found the best results using Botox when repeated on a regular basis to maintain the results. The weakening effect gradually begins over 3-5 days.

Before	After

For maximum results it is recommended that you maintain an upright posture for at least 4 hours  following treatment. During this time it is also recommended that the treated area not be rubbed vigorously or massaged. You may wish to actively flex and relax the treated areas during this time, as this may help to increase the response of the targeted muscles.

There are no known permanent side effects of Botulinum for wrinkles (Botox). There are, however, several well-documented side effects that are temporary. These include the following:

• Muscle weakness: a flu-like syndrome or the development of antibodies to Botox. Serious or long lasting effects are very rare.
• Bruising: May occur at or near the injection site. This effect clears within 7-10 days. No treatment is necessary.
• Headache: Related to the actual injections, is usually mild and transient, lasting less than 24 hours. May be relieved with Tylenol.
• Asymmetry: As described above, may be noticed within the first two weeks of Botox therapy. May be corrected with touch up injections, if necessary. There is a fee for touch up injections.
• Numbness: Actually a change in sensation noticed by some patients in the Botox treated areas, better described as a dullness, it is usually only noticeable for a few days after the procedure and resolves without treatment.
• Eyebrow or eyelid ptosis (drooping) or diplopia (double vision): Seen in 1-2% of patients receiving Botox therapy. It is temporary but may last weeks, is usually mild and may be treated with prescription eye drops. eyelid ptosis (drooping) diplopia (double vision): seen 1-2% receiving temporary but last weeks, prescription eye drops.>
• For reasons not fully understood, some patients may be less sensitive or resistant to the effects of Botox.

 

If you are pregnant, or breast-feeding Botox treatments are not recommended. If you are currently taking aminoglycoside antibiotics or penicillamine, you need to discuss this with our doctors. Be sure to list all medications, including non-prescription and alternative medications that you are currently taking, or have taken in the past month.

There are alternatives to Botox therapy for wrinkles, including topical cream treatments, chemical peels, laser peeling, surgical face lifting and surgical destruction of the muscles involved in the formation dynamic lines. Because Botox therapy for wrinkles is considered a cosmetic procedure, insurance does not pay for treatment. Payment at the time of service is requested for all patients. You will be given a price quote before your Botox treatment. We request a 48-hour cancellation for all scheduled appointments.

How Does Botox Work?

Botox injections can dramatically reduce your frown lines. Movement of the brow muscles causes the skin to crease. As the skin becomes less elastic over time, repeated frowning creates visible lines and wrinkles.

Botox injections relax the muscles by blocking nerve impulses. Once the muscles are at rest, the skin becomes smoother, creating a more natural and relaxed appearance.

What to Expect from a Botox Procedure

This is a simple 10-minute procedure consisting of a few tiny injections. There is no anesthesia required, although you may be advised to numb the area with a cold pack or anesthetic cream prior to injecting Botox.

Discomfort is minimal and brief; most clients compare the sensation to a bug bite. There may be slight temporary bruising at the injection site(s), which can easily be covered up with makeup.

You can resume normal activity immediately after the Botox procedure. You will see a marked improvement within days that may continue to improve for as long as a week; with moderate to better improvement in 30 days. For many clients, Botox virtually erases these lines. The effects of treatments can last up to 4 months.

With Botox, you will not look like you've had work done. You can still frown, smile or look surprised without the wrinkles and creases.

Is Botox safe?

Botox is safe and effective. The most common side effects are headache, respiratory infection, flu syndrome, temporary eyelid droop, and nausea.

Botox injections are contraindicated in the presence of infection at the proposed injection site(s) and in individuals with know hypersensitivity to any ingredient in the formulation.

Botox is administered at very low doses, and the effects are usually confined to the injected area(s); it does not travel throughout the body. These treatments are not recommended if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.

There are also some medications, both prescription and over-the-counter / herbal preparations, that are not recommended with Botox treatments.

For a personal and confidential consultation with one of our Board Certified Plastic Surgeons, call the Clinique of Plastic Surgery at 800-942-1606 to schedule your appointment today!

As with any medical procedure, there are certain inherent risks that should be discussed. Costs vary depending upon the extent of the surgery and areas treated.