The most popular cosmetic procedure in the U.S., over 7.5 million Botox appointments are made annually.
With so many people opting for Botox, however, there is bound to be some misinformation associated with the procedure.
From what Botox can do, can’t do, and everything in-between, here, Dr. Maya Kato of Aesthetic Art Facial Rejuvenation aims to clear the air surrounding Botox injections and clarify any hampering questions you may have regarding the procedure.
Botox, Briefly
Botox is a manufactured product. Derived from the botulinum bacteria, Botox is a neuromodulator that temporarily weakens the muscles that cause facial wrinkles. By weakening muscular contractions, wrinkles in the forehead, between the eyes and crow’s feet are eliminated for a period of time, generally four-eight months.
Some of the most common myths surrounding Botox injections include:
1. Botox is a Dangerous Procedure
Botox has been medically approved for over thirty years, first receiving FDA approval to treat medical conditions such as muscular spasms and excessive sweating in 1989. In 2002, Botox was approved for cosmetic applications, after which time millions of patients have safely obtained gratifying results with Botox injections.
Of course, Botox should be handled and administered by a trained, experienced, and qualified doctor.
2. Botox Can Cause Permanent Paralysis and Botulism
This myth stems from how Botox is produced. Botox is derived from a toxin produced by botulinum bacteria.
In its natural, unpurified and non-derived form, this toxin direct from the bacteria can induce botulism food poisoning – a serious type of poisoning that affects the body’s central nervous system and, in some cases, can lead to death.
However, Botox Cosmetic, a purified, controlled substance, only works on a localized scale at the injection site and causes temporary superficial musculature paralysis. Moreover, the dose of Botox Cosmetic is extremely dilute, which makes it safe, when administered by a physician properly trained in its use. The effects of Botox are reversible and non-permanent.
3. Botox Will Freeze My Face Expressionless
The results patients experience with Botox does depend on the skill and experience level of their doctor. However, Botox injections, when properly administered to the treatment sites, will not affect other muscles in the face and will allow for a full range of expression.
Injections sites for Botox include:
- Forehead furrows
- Crow’s feet
- Smile, or marionette lines
4. Botox Can Solve All My Signs of Aging
As we have discussed, Botox works by paralyzing the muscles responsible for causing dynamic wrinkles. There is another type of wrinkle, static wrinkles, which Botox cannot address.
Static wrinkles are caused by lines being etched into the skin due to repeated movement, the skin losing its elasticity, and sun exposure. In order to solve these wrinkles, fillers such as Juvederm, Voluma, and Volbella can be used in conjunction with Botox to give the entire face a fresh, rejuvenated, youthful appearance.
Next Steps
Undoubtedly, Botox is a highly useful, safe, and effective anti-aging treatment. Botox can provide anti-aging results to a vast majority of patients concerned about the effects time is having on their appearance. To have any remaining questions answered, or to book your consultation with Palm Springs award-winning board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Maya Kato, call (760)-610-5558 or fill out her online form.