As years pass, our skin’s laxity deteriorates and our skin ages. For some, these facial etchings are fine — they are unbothered by the inevitable hand of the clock. For others, wrinkles and creases are cause for frown lines…aging isn’t always a pleasant thing. For those wanting to retain a youthful appearance and lessen the intensity of wrinkles and fine lines, Botox offers an efficient and effective way to maintain facial shape and reduce dynamic creases.
How does Botox work? Read below to find out!
What is Botox?
Botox is a bacterium Clostridium botulinum that produces the toxin Botulinum taken from organic materials. Botulinum has a neuromuscular effect that can paralyze muscles, which can be deadly in large quantities, but have great medical and cosmetic benefits in small quantities. Doctors have harnessed its neurotoxin power to treat muscle spasms, chronic migraines, floating eye, and excessive sweating. Cosmetically, it is used to treat fine lines, wrinkles, creases, crowsfeet, and other anti-aging measures. It’s tried-and-true medical and cosmetic benefits are commonplace today, with over 1.5 million Botox treatments happening annually.
Botox works by relaxing muscles. When Botox is injected, the muscles surrounding are relaxed by the toxin, no longer contracting. This softens the area, adding a youthful look to the face by lessening wrinkles. Sometimes, Botox and filler are both part of the procedure depending on your goals. Botox softens wrinkles/creases/fine lines, and filler adds volume/shape.
How Long Does Botox Take?
The Botox procedure is quick, effective, and non-invasive. Sometimes, the procedure happens the same day as the consultation appointment. Overall, the entire procedure takes around 10-15 minutes, and patients can resume regular activity immediately (although, of course, patients should avoid excessive facial motion or disturbance).
How Many Units of Botox Do I Need?
After consulting with the beautician, the doctor will ask the patient to make various facial expressions (smiling, frowning, laughing, etc.) and make marks on the face where the injections will go. After, the doctor will prepare the face and inject the Botox into the facial muscles. How many units or how much Botox a patient will need is dependent on what the Botox goals are. You can discuss how much Botox you may need with your cosmetic doctor or nurse in your free consultation.
Once the Botox is injected, a cool compress will be put on the face to reduce redness and swelling. Most doctors recommend that patients sleep with their head propped upright, avoid exercise, and anything that could move the Botox prematurely.
How Long Does It Take for Botox to Take Effect?
While the effects of Botox are visible within a day, it can take around a week for the results to be fully seen. The results can last from 3-12 months depending on the procedure. Usually, patients return for touch-ups after a certain amount of time to maintain the results. The beautician will let the patient know how often Botox is needed. After the quick procedure, patients are left with a smoother, more youthful face. Bye-bye wrinkles!
Watch the quick video below to learn more about Botox and fillers!
Want to Try Botox?
For those wondering whether Botox might be the best cosmetic solution for you, we invite you to simply come in for a complimentary consultation with Dr. Chang or one of the cosmetic laser and injection nurses to explore whether you would make a good candidate. To find out more whether Aesthetica can help you, contact us online or at 703-729-5553 to arrange an appointment. Dr. Phillip Chang is a board-certified plastic surgeon in Northern Virginia near Leesburg, Virginia and an expert in a wide variety of cosmetic treatments.
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