Discover the Truth About Botox and Decide if You Could Use a Little Anti-Aging in Your Life.
In 2002, Botox was approved to reduce the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines, helping people look younger for slightly longer. At that time, obtaining a natural appearance wasn’t the goal of the treatment.
Nowadays, special attention to detail and strategically selecting dosages enable patients to receive natural-looking results.
But there’s so much more you should know about Botox before deciding if it’s right for you.
Botox provides lasting results and is safe for many patients. It’s also used in various sites on the face.
What Exactly Is Botox?
Botox is the brand name for onabotulinumtoxinA, which is used to soften the appearance of fine lines or wrinkles temporarily, primarily on the forehead, between the brows, around the eyes, and near the mouth.
If that “botulinumtoxin” part of the name sticks out to you, it’s probably for a good reason. Yes, this treatment consists of a byproduct produced by the bacterium Clostridium botulinum. But it’s not what you think.
The substance goes through an extensive purification process that leaves only a single protein. All of the other components of the bacteria are removed completely to make the compound safe for use. Another key factor is that this ingredient is given in such a minuscule dose that it’s much less than the amount that could cause toxicity.
Before each batch hits the market, it undergoes testing to ensure consistency, just as an extra precaution.
How Does Botox Work?
Step one of the process is deciding the dosage and location(s) for the injections. The next part of the process is injecting it carefully into the designated muscles. The substance in the injection will decrease nerve signals and reduce movement in the treatment area. This process leads to the muscles relaxing and the appearance of any wrinkles lessening. Through this treatment, deep creases won’t happen.
For the next three to four months, the muscle function won’t be what it used to be. At the end of this time, though, the nerve endings start getting their connections back.
Who Can Give Botox?
All of the following can complete training to administer Botox in Texas:
- physicians (MDs and DOs)
- nurse practitioners (NPs/APRNs)
- physician assistants (PAs)
- registered nurses (RNs)
These individuals have more than general knowledge about the blood vessels, nerves, and facial muscles. In addition to their educational backgrounds, they undergo specialized training to administer Botox that educates them in facial anatomy, injection techniques, and patient evaluation.
What Happens During the Procedure?
You’re basically in and out with Botox. Injecting the medication only takes about 10 or so minutes. It’s all the new patient paperwork, discussion, and deciding on the right approach that takes the most time. Once you get past that, you’ll notice that your appointments barely take any time.
Each injection feels the same as when you receive a vaccination. For that reason, you won’t need any anesthetic. You just allow the doctor to perform the necessary injections. Then, you can leave and return to your normal activities. You’ll be told what you can’t do immediately after, such as strenuous exercise, hot tubs, or alcohol.
When Do You Start Seeing Results of Botox?
Botox doesn’t provide instant effects, so don’t be alarmed if all you have is bruising or swelling in the area initially. This will subside. In the meantime, the protein in this treatment is working on the muscles. Usually, in three to seven days after getting Botox, you’ll see some effects. By 10 to 14 days, the full results are typically visible.
Who Is a Good Candidate for Botox?
Generally, Botox is for women and men between the ages of 18 and 65 who want to look younger. Patients in their early 20s and teens can use it as a preventive. Anyone older than that can use it to correct fine lines and wrinkles and prevent new ones from forming or current ones from worsening. It’s the ideal solution for those who want a change but don’t want surgery.
Most people in overall good health qualify for Botox, but certain individuals may want to look toward other options or will need to wait for treatment:
- Pregnant or breastfeeding women
- People with neuromuscular disorders, such as amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS)
- Individuals with active skin infections
- Those with bleeding disorders like hemophilia
- Men or women taking certain medications, i.e., muscle relaxants, some antibiotics, or blood thinners
Is Botox Safe?
So we said Botox is safe, but you probably want a little more to go by than simply our word. Botox was actually approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for wrinkles over 20 years ago. Long before that, on December 29, 1989, the FDA approved it for eye muscle disorders, demonstrating its long history of use.
A majority of side effects are only temporary. Most commonly, you may have bruising around the injection site, especially if you take a vitamin E supplement or aspirin within 48 hours of the treatment. That’s why we advise patients to avoid taking these that are close to getting their injections.
Serious side effects are incredibly rare. The stories you may have heard about life-threatening complications are primarily from non-authentic or counterfeit Botox.
Improve the Appearance of Your Skin Today with Botox in Sugar Land, TX
Now that you know a bit about Botox, schedule your consultation and see what this non-surgical approach to refreshing your appearance can do for you. Dr. Shel will answer any questions you still have and create a personalized treatment plan for optimal, natural-looking results.
We offer a variety of other treatments for skin tightening and facial rejuvenation, including Fotona 4D Laser Facelift and chemical peels.
Check out Dr. Shel’s track record of satisfied patients, some of whom had Botox or other skin enhancements.
Schedule an appointment today and see how Dr. Shel can boost your confidence and help retain your youth for a little longer. Call (281) 313-7435.
