When patients come to our office, one of the most common concerns that they express is their deep facial lines and wrinkles. If you have wrinkles that are making you look older than you feel or you simply want to treat yourself to a cosmetic treatment that can refresh your looks, you may want to consider Botox injections.
At Palms Wellington Plastic Surgery, we can use Botox to smooth away lines and wrinkles or even prevent wrinkles from getting deeper. Botox can offer long-lasting results without invasive treatments.
What Is Botox?
Botox is an injectable treatment that smooths lines and wrinkles by targeting the surrounding muscles. This medication is a neuromodulator which means that it affects the way messages are sent throughout the body. Specifically, it stops messages from the nerves to the muscles, keeping the muscles from contracting and allowing them to relax.
Botox is commonly used on horizontal lines on the forehead, crow’s feet next to the eyes, and frown lines in between the eyebrows. The FDA has approved treatment for all three areas.
How Does Botox Work on Wrinkles?
Dynamic wrinkles, such as those on the forehead or at the corners of the eyes, are formed when the movements of certain muscles cause the skin to fold in the same area. Over the years, these lines become permanent as skin loses elasticity and is unable to bounce back each time.
While Botox is not a permanent cure for these lines, it can temporarily smooth them away and minimize their appearance by causing the muscles to no longer contract. As these muscles relax, you can make expressions without lines forming on your face.
How Long Do the Benefits of Botox Last?
Once injected, Botox usually lasts for around 3 or 4 months before your body metabolizes the formulation and your muscles regain their normal movement. However, it is important to note that everyone’s body is unique and results may differ depending on several factors. These factors can include:
The Dosage Used
Botox is a customizable treatment that can be used to help achieve your individual aesthetic goals. Some people want a lighter treatment while others want a more aggressive treatment. The number of units that are injected will depend on what you and your doctor discuss. The dosage that is used during your treatment may also have an effect on how long the treatment lasts.
The Location of the Injections
Some areas of the face can retain results longer than others. It can wear off faster in areas that have more movement such as the forehead and may last longer in areas with less movement.
The Patient’s Body
There are many factors inside your own body that may determine how long your treatment results last. Some people may metabolize the protein faster leading to shorter results. Individuals who are active or expressive or even those with high amounts of stress may also notice Botox wearing off faster.
The Frequency of Injections
The first time you have a Botox injection, you may notice your wrinkles returning more quickly. However, with regular Botox treatments, the results can begin to last longer. This is because Botox can have a cumulative effect. The muscles that are injected can be trained to move less aggressively even after the Botox has worn off. Other muscles in the face can also become stronger to compensate which can have an overall positive effect on your features.
How Long Does Botox Take to Work?
If you are planning on getting Botox treatments before a special event, we always recommend scheduling your treatment several weeks in advance. This is because it can take some time for the neuromodulator to take effect. The first improvements often appear 5-7 days after injections. However, full results may not be apparent until 30 days after treatment.
What Do Botox Injections Involve?
The first step for Botox injections is to have a consultation with your doctor. It is important to determine if you are a good candidate for the treatment. We will take a full medical history and ask about any previous injections or cosmetic treatments that you may have had in the past.
Injections can be customized according to the muscle structure of your face. We will determine the correct location of injections by having you make certain facial expressions. Then a set number of Botox units will be injected at each point. The injection can sometimes leave a little bump at the injection site which goes away quickly after injections.
Once your treatment is complete, you can go back home or back to work. Some people have a little bruising from the treatment or some swelling and redness. We recommend not touching the area to let it heal and avoid any strenuous exercise. You may also be asked to stay upright for a few hours after treatment to allow the Botox time to settle in.
We will give you more specific instructions about your Botox treatments when you come in for a consultation. It is important to remember that every situation is different and it is always best to speak to your doctor before having injections.
Botox Treatments in Wellington, FL
If you have concerns about deep lines and wrinkles on your face, Botox may be the right choice. This treatment has helped many of our patients to have a boost of confidence in their everyday lives or special events. View our Botox before and after gallery or contact us today by calling 561-899-8118 or filling out an online form.