Curious About BOTOX? We’ve Got You Covered!

Are the words “aging gracefully” as cringeworthy to your ears are they are to mine? We have heard those words spoken time and again, and yet, we still fight against it. One way to fight those words is with BOTOX.

What Is BOTOX?

BOTOX is a registered trademark for a neurotoxin called botulinum toxin. Botulinum toxin is a neurotoxic protein produced by the bacterium Clostridium botulinum that prevents the release of the neurotransmitter acetylcholine from axon endings. WOW! That is a mouthful! Let’s put that into plain English: Botulinum toxins simply make the muscles temporarily weak or inactive thereby decreasing wrinkling of the overlying skin.

BOTOX was FDA-approved in 1989 to be used by ophthalmologists. Today, there are many medical and cosmetic applications for BOTOX.

In addition to BOTOX there are several other brands of botulinum toxins such as Xeomin, Dysport, and Jeuveau.

What Should I Expect During my BOTOX Treatment?

BOTOX injections are a 10-minute, in-office procedure that temporarily halts muscle contractions in targeted areas on the face, most often the forehead between the brows, and/or around the eyes (crow’s feet). Dr. Valerie H. Chen, our ophthalmic plastic surgeon here at Providence Eye, will discuss your desired goals and establish precise points for the botulinum injections to create a natural, symmetrical look. She carefully takes into consideration the muscle location and strength on each part of your face.

When Will I See Results from my BOTOX Injections?

In a time when we all love instant gratification, BOTOX basically delivers quick results. We call this the rule of 3s:

• 3 days to take effect
• 3 weeks for full effect
• Effects last about 3 months

What Are the Benefits of BOTOX?

• Predictable Results – when injected by a professional with experience, you’ll be able to trust what you’ll look like in your “after” photos.
• Controllable – you can request how obvious you would like the results to be. It can range from subtle improvement in one area to significant improvement in all areas.
• Short Term or Long Term – You may want BOTOX for a special occasion, in which case your result will last about three months. Or you may enjoy your new look and want long-term results, in which case you would schedule regular appointments approximately every three months.

Is BOTOX Permanent?

No, BOTOX is not permanent. If you are looking for long-term results, treatment will be required every three months to maintain your new appearance.

Will BOTOX ‘Fill In’ my Sagging Eyes and Cheeks?

No, BOTOX does not fill or plump any areas that have lost mass due to aging. BOTOX will only “freeze” facial muscles to keep you from contracting them in ways that deepen lines and wrinkles. Fillers such as Juvederm or Restylane are a separate, in-office treatment.

Can I Use BOTOX Preventatively?

Absolutely! People in their 20s have not yet developed lines and creases caused by years of smiling, frowning, and squinting. The earlier you get BOTOX, the more preventative its effects — if the muscles are “frozen” then those lines will not form.

Are you ready to look like a younger version of you? Dr. Valerie H. Chen would be pleased to use her artistic approach and recommend appropriate BOTOX injections to deliver the results you desire. Contact us to schedule your evaluation today and get back that softer look you remember.