Dynamic wrinkles are caused by contractions of the underlying facial muscles as you smile, laugh or frown. Now, thanks to a new use for an FDA approved nonsurgical treatment, these dynamic wrinkles can be dramatically softened. This procedure uses Botox injections to improve the appearance of worry, frown and laugh lines, crows’ feet, upper lip lines and other dynamic wrinkles.
Botox smoothes, flattens and relaxes:
- Horizontal creases on the forehead
- Vertical crease between the eyes (the glabella area)
- Wrinkles on the temple side of the eyes, the "crow's feet"
- Wrinkle on the side of the nose, "bunny lines"
- Wrinkles on the upper lip, pursed lips
- Vertical cords on the neck
Botox is also used in a variety of medical conditions, including treatment of migraine and tension headache, chronic muscular pain, abnormal facial movements, tremors, and excessive sweating of the palms, soles of the feet and underarms.
How does Botox work?
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Botox blocks impulses from the nerve to the tiny facial muscles that cause these lines so the muscles do not contract. Untreated facial muscles contract in a normal fashion, allowing normal facial expression to be unaffected.
Botox injections have been used safely and effectively for over twenty years in thousands of patients to treat medical conditions such as ophthalmological (blepharospasm) and neuromuscular disorders. Botox has rapidly evolved into a popular treatment for reversing the visible signs of aging.
How safe is Botox?
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Cosmetic denervation with Botox is a simple and safe procedure. Using a tiny needle, a very small amount of Botox is injected, very precisely, into several locations on the face. Because the needle is so fine and only a small amount of liquid is used, the pain associated with the injections is minimal. No anesthetic is required, and you can resume normal activities immediately. Some patients experience a slight temporary bruising at the injection site. This can easily be covered with make-up.
What benefit can I enjoy?
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If dynamic wrinkles make you look older than you are, cosmetic denervation can smooth these out and give you a more youthful and rested appearance. Lines around the eyes and on the forehead, and upper lip, respond as well as horizontal necklines. Botox can also be used in the neck region to improve the appearance of platysmal banding. Botox does not improve wrinkles due to aging and sun-damaged skin, as they are unrelated to facial muscle contractions. Botox injections will not improve sagging skin or replace the need for a facelift or brow lift.
What are the possible side effects?
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While infrequent, mild temporary bruising is the most common side effect. In some cases, the medicine can migrate and cause a temporary weakness of nearby muscles. In rare cases, there can be a drooping of an eyelid or asymmetry of facial expression. The risk of any side effect depends on the muscles injected. Dr. Samadani will discuss this with you in length before your treatment. Because the effects of Botox are completely reversible, any side effects are temporary.
Does Botox help with excess sweating?
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Yes, Botox blocks the release of acetylcholine, which also stimulates the sweat glands. This can be used on your underarms (to decrease perspiration) and even hands, feet and forehead.
How long does Botox last?
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The effects of the Botox injections last from three to six months. The early clinical studies indicate that the duration of treatment benefits is increased over time so that you should require injections less frequently in the future. In a few patients the benefits last over 9 months. Also, the duration of effect varies from patient to patient and may be less effective for those over 65 years of age. The beneficial effect of decreasing sweating appears to last longer than 6 months for most people.
