BOTOX®: Fact or Fiction?
Posted May 03, 2019 in BOTOX® Cosmetic
Your face is typically the first place that noticeable signs of aging begin to appear. Anyone interested in reducing their facial creases, fine lines, and wrinkles might consider non-invasive treatments before undergoing a procedure such as a facelift or brow lift, depending on the severity of their concerns. BOTOX® Cosmetic has been a safe, minimally invasive approach to addressing aging in the face for many years, and yet there are many inaccurate rumors regarding BOTOX® and its uses.
The Most Common BOTOX® Myths
Myth: BOTOX® is only suitable for cosmetic purposes.
Fact: There are many uses for BOTOX®, including treatment for migraines, excessive sweating, overactive bladder, eyelid spasms, upper limb spasticity, and chronic neck or back pain. When used for cosmetic purposes, it is referred to as BOTOX® Cosmetic (though it is the same product) and can treat glabellar lines (wrinkles between the eyebrows), and crow’s feet, which are the creases around the corners of the eyes.
Myth: Facial expressions will be inhibited, affecting how you express emotions.
Fact: BOTOX® Cosmetic is injected directly into the muscles to relax them and smooth the skin. Only the targeted area is affected. Smiling and other facial expressions are still possible.
Myth: The effects of BOTOX® Cosmetic are permanent.
Fact: As the body metabolizes the product, your results will begin to fade. Results typically last up to six months, then completely dissipate.
Myth: BOTOX® is dangerous and toxic to the body.
Fact: Your surgeon carefully administers the injection to ensure a safe, comfortable treatment. The FDA-approved formulation is not a hazardous synthetic material; it is derived from Botulinum toxin A (a neurotoxin protein), which is delivered in small, diluted amounts.
Myth: Injections of BOTOX® Cosmetic are painful.
Fact: The needle used for distribution is very thin, so the injections are virtually painless. For sensitive patients, a topical numbing agent or ice can be used to ease any discomfort during treatment.
Myth: BOTOX® Cosmetic is addictive.
Fact: There are no chemical dependencies associated with BOTOX® Cosmetic. Many patients are highly satisfied with their youthful appearance after receiving BOTOX® Cosmetic and want to maintain their results by receiving injections four to six months after their previous treatment.
Myth: Wrinkles become worse after you stop getting injections.
Fact: BOTOX® Cosmetic does not promote the production of more wrinkles. As the effects wear off, your natural wrinkles will begin to gradually return. The aging process will continue as your results diminish.
Myth: BOTOX® Cosmetic can accumulate in the body over time.
Fact: This is incorrect. As the nerve impulses return, your initial results diminish and your facial muscles resume their original shape and activity level. Additional treatments are required to maintain your youthful appearance.
Myth: Only women receive BOTOX® Cosmetic injections.
Fact: Men are also enjoying the benefits of BOTOX® Cosmetic, with significant increases in popularity every year. This movement is referred to as “brotox” and results are a youthful appearance for men.
The Truth About BOTOX®
With fictional concepts being corrected by facts, there is additional information regarding BOTOX® that you should be aware of. Results from the injections are not immediate; it takes a few days for your muscles to become immobilized and for wrinkles to soften. It can take up to 10 days for the effects to become fully evident. This quick, safe method of addressing facial aging is less invasive than a surgical procedure and requires zero downtime. It is not a requirement to wait until you are older to receive treatments. In fact, it is becoming more popular to begin receiving BOTOX® Cosmetic injections as early as your mid-twenties to reduce premature wrinkles.
To learn more about BOTOX® injections, schedule a consultation with Dr. Koch today by calling (716) 631-1220 or by filling out our online contact form.