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.
