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What is BOTOX® and How Does it Work?

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Wednesday, December 15th, 2021

by Mary-Kate Ellis, PA-C

Let’s chat about one of the most popular aesthetic treatments – BOTOX. While there are plenty of uses for Botox, it was mainly approved to help reduce the appearance and visibility of fine lines and wrinkles on the face. Specifically, the FDA has approved it for use on the forehead, the lines between the eyes, and crows feet. It is injected into the underlying muscle using a very small needle. Once the Botox is injected into that muscle, it works by relaxing the muscle. One misconception is that Botox gets rid of your wrinkles. Botox relaxes the muscles, allowing the skin to relax. And in turn, this reduces the visibility and depth of the fine lines and wrinkles. This is why it is great to start Botox injections before the lines have settled at rest on your face. Since Botox is preventative, the sooner the better!

Where are the most commonly injected areas?

Forehead lines, frown lines between the eyebrows, and crow’s feet are typically the most common areas for which patients will receive Botox injections. But did you know that Botox can be used for more than just wrinkles? Botox can help the appearance of a “gummy smile,” or an excessive amount of gum visible under the upper lip when smiling. Botox can be injected to relax this muscle and give you a more confident smile! When Botox is injected into the masseter muscle, it results in a more slim and defined jawline. It relaxes the masseter muscle, where we often hold tension. This is a great treatment option if you clench or grind your teeth. Botox will help alleviate jaw pain and headaches. Botox can also be injected into the orbicularis oris, the muscle around the mouth, to create a more pronounced, defined lip. The results are subtle and will help enhance your Cupid’s bow. If you’re looking for more definition in your lips but not more volume, this treatment is great. This is just the tip of the iceberg for treatment options available with Botox!

What’s the difference between Botox and dermal fillers?

Neuromodulators (Botox/Dysport) are purified proteins that work by relaxing muscle contraction. We use this to soften lines and wrinkles created by muscle movement. Results take effect gradually over 2 weeks and last 3-4 months.

Hyaluronic acid filler is a gel-like substance injected to fill lines, improve hydration, add volume, lift, add shape/definition, etc. Results are seen immediately and improve over the next couple of weeks. Duration varies from 6-24 months depending on the filler used and area injected.

What happens during a Botox consultation?

I always review what Botox is and how it works to treat lines created by muscle movement. We will then discuss what bothers YOU and the areas you could benefit from Botox. It is also important that we review realistic expectations, what to expect during the procedure, onset, longevity, etc. We will review your specific goals and go over your medical history.  At the consultation, we will take before pictures and review your customized dosing. Not every patient needs the same amount of Botox. Dosing is something specific and customizable based on the area being treated and the strength of the muscle. After we have completed the above, we will review and sign the consent form and prep for the procedure if you want to do it the same day!

How long does Botox last?

Botox typically begins to kick in around day 5-7. However, Botox takes up to 2 weeks to take full effect. Results generally last around 3-4 months for most patients.

When should I start getting Botox?

Botox is an extremely popular treatment for women in their 20s and 30s. Why? Because Botox is preventative medicine. When we’re young, under the age of 30, the skin bounces back into place after the muscle moves it. It is almost as if our muscles never contract thus leaving any fine lines or creases. As we age, the skin loses elasticity and becomes thinner. When that occurs, the skin doesn’t easily return to its smooth, relaxed state as the muscle relaxes. Therefore, a line or crease may form in the skin. After years of muscle movement, the line or crease stays in the skin at rest. With Botox we can actually prevent those lines, leaving the skin smooth and refreshed into our 30s, 40s, 50s, and 60s!

 

If you’re ready to achieve your aesthetic goals, call us at (478) 743-2299 and get started with our team voted Best Medical Spa and Best Plastic Surgeon for 2021.

Spa Medical® is located in downtown Macon, Georgia, and offers surgical and non-surgical anti-aging procedures to help you look as young as you feel.

It’s Just 3 Easy Steps…

make an appointment

to receive a customized treatment plan

enjoy a relaxing environment

during your treatment/procedure

Look & Feel Younger

because you deserve it

It’s Just 3 Easy Steps…

make an appointment

to receive a customized treatment plan

enjoy a relaxing environment

during your treatment/procedure

Look & Feel Younger

because you deserve it

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