If you haven’t taken a ride on the Botox bandwagon yet, it’s likely you’ve at least considered it. Maybe you’ve seen too many “frozen” faces or maybe you’re scared of the potential side effects.
Either way, by knowing how Botox works, it’s a lot easier to decide if and when it’s right for you.
Facial wrinkles are a direct result of facial muscle contraction.
To put it simply, a neuromodulator (Botox, Dysport, and Xeomin), temporarily paralyses muscles, thus softening or eliminating the wrinkles in that area due to the lack of muscle contraction.
The amount of neuromodulator injected determines the level of paralysis, which is controlled by the doctor or nurse giving the injections.
Botox is often referred to as a “preventative” measure because when the muscles are paralyzed, wrinkles do not form or deepen. Hence the growing popularity with younger patients.
Neuromodulators work best on crow’s feet, forehead, and glabellar wrinkles (vertical lines between eyebrows). Other areas like the chin or upper lip can also respond well to injections.
Less traditional uses for neuromodulators are also becoming more common, like treating headaches or decreasing perspiration.
The effects of a neuromodulator typically lasts around three to four months, however patients who routinely schedule injections start to see longer lasting results due to the weakening of the muscle over time.
Botox is the most commonly known neuromodulator, and what is used at The Lett Center, but Dysport and Xeomin can also be used for the same effect. Patients may see results more quickly while using Dysport and Xeomin, (it takes 5-7 days for Botox to take effect) but the results of Botox usually lasts a little longer. Ultimately, results vary depending on the patient.
Botox is a very well tolerated product, with the most common side effects being slight bruising and temporary swelling.
The most distressing complication that occurs in rare cases is Ptosis (drooping of the eyelid), but disappears as the injections wear off.
Overall, the biggest takeaway is that the effects of Botox are temporary. If you decide to give it a shot (pun intended) and aren’t sold on the results, you can alter the amount of injections next time or stop altogether.
For the month of February 2017, you can get $50 off Botox at The Lett Center.
*Minimum 25 units
*Must be a registered Brilliant Distinctions member.
It’s free to sign up! Once registered, you are immediately eligible for the $50 off Botox coupon + you will receive another $50 coupon in the mail from BD in 90 days! Click here to register or for more information.
If you’re reading this blog after February 2017, check our current monthly specials to see if Botox is included!
Click here to see monthly specials.
And as always, if you have any additional questions or would like to book an appointment please give us a call at (615)443-0901.