CALL TODAY: What Does Botox Do?
Used to treat millions of patients worldwide, neuromodulators such as Botox ®, Dysport and Xeomin are highly purified proteins injected into certain overactive facial muscles whose repeated contractions cause unwanted lines. These neurotoxins cause these muscles to relax by blocking the nerve impulse to the muscle. Just a few small injections into the muscles reduce the lines associated with different facial expressions. Botox® can also raise the lateral eyebrow, lift the corners of the mouth, and reduce turkey bands under the neck and dimpling in the chin. This injectable product can also be used to stop underarm sweating. Similar products that achieve comparable results also include Dysport and Xeomin, which are also available in our dermatology office.
*Each patient is unique and individual results may vary.
What Causes Dynamic Wrinkles?
Dynamic wrinkles are one of three facial rhytids, or wrinkles, caused by repetitive muscle contraction. As we age, our body’s natural collagen and elastin will degenerate, ultimately leading to some fine lines and/or deep furrows. While both genetics and lifestyle play a role in the severity of dynamic wrinkles, the repetitive motions of our daily facial expressions are evident.
What Do Dynamic Wrinkles Look Like?
Over time, the facial muscles used with everyday expressions can lead to unwanted lines most prominent in the forehead, brow area and around the eyes. Common facial expressions like smiling and/or frowning cause certain facial muscles to contract. For example, the depressor muscles, which pull down the corners of our mouth when we frown, can create the appearance of unattractive scowl lines. Frowning also forces the corrugator muscle located between the eyebrows to contract causing undesirable glabellar lines. Smaller muscle contractions are responsible for the presence of crow’s feet around the eyes. Botox®, Dysport and Xeomin can help diminish dynamic wrinkles by relaxing the respective underlying facial muscles, thus preventing the formation of static, or permanent, wrinkles.
How Are Dynamic Wrinkles Treated?
This cosmetic dermatology treatment is a simple, non-surgical procedure that softens the lines associated with facial expressions such as frown lines, forehead lines, and crow’s feet. Performed in our Miami Dermatology office, this procedure is done with minimal discomfort, requires virtually no downtime, and enables you to reveal a refreshed and natural you! The results occur within a week and can last up to four months.
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Botox Q and A
What is a neuromodulator?
Neuromodulators are small proteins that are injected into specific muscles in the face to temporarily weaken the muscle to soften fines lines and wrinkles. Common areas treated are the lines on the forehead, around the eyes and the space between the eyebrows called the glabella. There are different types of neuromodulators, specifically called Botox, Dysport and Xeomin. All of these products are similar in action but differ only by the protein content.
Is it a painful procedure?
No! There are many ways that we can improve the injection experience. We typically tell patients to get to the office a few minutes prior to his or her procedure so that we can place a topical numbing cream on the treated areas. Over a matter of a few minutes the areas will begin to feel like they are asleep. The numbing can last for up to an hour after the procedure and the normal sensation will come back. In addition, very small needles are used to inject into the muscle. Very little to no discomfort is often felt.
What are some of the common side effects of neurotoxins?
While the majority of people experience no side effects, more commonly reported effects can include bruising and small red bumps in the areas injected which is a result of the fluid being placed into the skin. These small “swollen bumps” typically go down in a few minutes. Other potential side effects can include heaviness in the eyebrows and eyelids. All of these effects are temporary and do go away with time.
How long does it take for the neurotoxin to start to work?
While it varies from person to person, it typically can take anywhere from 2-10 days to see the full effects of the neurotoxin. You will start to notice that the wrinkles will soften and the muscles are weaker.
How long does it last?
These neurotoxins typically last around 3-4 months. At this time, you will start to notice that full movement of the muscles will return. We typically tell patient to come back in at this time for evaluation and re-treatment.
I saw Dr. Stacy Chimento in this office a few times now for Botox®, Restylane, and Hair Laser Removal. I can not tell you enough how wonderful my experience has been with her and her office. I never have to wait and am treated like a VI at every visit. The staff is cordial, tentative and very professional. Dr. Chimento always takes her time with me, explains every detail and personally calls me after each procedure (not too many doctors do that anymore). She has a light touch and does beautiful work. I had no pain with the injections or eve hair laser! I have received so many compliments on my face, particularly my cheeks, as show does very natural work. Unlike most other dermatology offices, the office does not push expensive products on you. Even more importantly, Dr. Chimento always makes sure that I am up to date with my skin cancer screenings since I am active and outdoors a lot. I highly recommend Dr. Chimento!
What is “Blowtox”?
Ever feel like you need to wash your hair twice daily because of excessive oiliness and sweating? Yes there is a solution for that. Cleverly called “Blowtox”, this new treatment will preserve your blow outs and protect your investment! What it entails is injecting anywhere from 50 to 100 units of neurotoxin such as Botox, Dysport or Xeomin to the affected areas on the scalp. Once injected the neurotoxin will help to decrease the activity of the sweat glands in the scalp. It typically takes 2-10 days to start to work and most people report that the treatment lasts for up to 6 months. It is great for those who exercise frequently and need to wash their hair frequently.
Can neurotoxins be used to treat excessive sweating in the armpits and hands?
Yes, neurotoxins such as Botox, Dysport and Xeomin can be injected superficially into the skin to improve excessive sweating by decreasing the nerve impulses that affect the activity of the sweat glands. Most people notice improvement in 2-10 days and the treatments last up to 6 months.
What is “Boytox and Babytox”?
Boytox is the term used to describe the latest trend in male patients who are receiving neurotoxin injections such as Botox, Dysport or Xeomin in the facial muscles to help them look more rested and refreshed, without looking like they have had something obvious done. They are able to still maintain their natural expression.
“Babytox” is the new popular trend in placing small amounts of Botox, Dysport or Xeomin to soften wrinkles on the face without looking “windblown or frozen”. It is popular among young patients who want to start preserving youthfulness and preventing signs of aging. Many patients that do not have the first signs of wrinkles still place very small amounts to weaken the muscle to prevent formation of rhytides.
