04 Jan New Year, No Lines?
Botox and Dysport are two of the most well-known, popular, and effective anti-aging treatments. These “neuromodulators” are a type of injectable prescription medication that temporarily “freezes” small, targeted muscles. Both Botox and Dysport are generally considered safe and have been approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) since 2002 and 2015, respectively. These neuromodulars are some of the most-requested treatments at RefinedMD.
Most Botox injections are delivered in the face to train key muscles not to work so strongly. One of the most popular sites is the “angry elevens,” located between the eyebrows. The forehead is also a popular Botox injection site. Both areas can make a person look worried, angry, and older than they are. Furrowing the brow can be caused by stress, worry, or squinting due to poor eyesight or sun exposure.
Over time, this furrowing can cause lines and wrinkles. Botox injections stop muscles from forming this expression temporarily. Regular injections can atrophy these muscles, making them weaker and unable to furrow as deeply or regularly. This is one instance when atrophied muscles are a good thing. The more regularly Botox or Dysport is used, the less a patient may need it long term.
Why Botox?
The angry elevens, or glabellar lines, are by far the most in-demand site for Botox injections. However, many patients also request injections near the eyes to treat crow’s feet and around the mouth to lessen the appearance of the “marionette face.”
Botox and Dysport paralysis are temporary. Most patients report that it lasts between three to six months. Regular re-injections will be necessary to maintain aesthetic appeal and to teach the muscles to be weaker. Botox and Dysport are incredibly effective and are delivered in “units.” Only your provider can determine the best amount of units for you and your skin care goals. Botox and Dysport treatments should only be performed by a highly-skilled injector.
Pre-injection Recommendations
During your Botox or Dysport consultation, you will be provided with a list of pre-injection best practices. These include avoiding alcohol and caffeine at least 12 hours prior to treatment. Patients should also avoid certain medications 12 hours pre-treatment, including anti-inflammatory medicines such as aspirin.
Bear in mind that Botox and Dysport don’t take effect immediately. It is a good idea to schedule injections at least two weeks before any special occasion to allow for both proper healing and maximum effect. Side effects are rare and minimal but can occur and you do not want them to interfere with your events.
Botox and Dysport are delivered via injection directly into the targeted muscle. The actual injection takes just a few seconds and is like getting a shot. There is no pain for most patients, but mild discomfort may be experienced (similar to any injection). There is no “recovery period,” but patients should avoid laying down and sweating for a few hours post-injection. This can cause undesired “spreading” or sweating out of the injection.
The Why Behind Botox
Both Botox and Dysport inhibit muscle movement. However, skilled injections will not interfere with natural expressions. Dynamic movement is maintained while muscles that cause undesired effects, such as those used during anger or worry, are repressed. A vast improvement in appearance is visible within one week.
Some patients report a mild discomfort, which is common after any injection. Slight swelling or bruising may occur, but is rare and does not last for long periods. Patients can return to work and other daily activities that do not lead to sweating immediately after Botox or Dysport injections. Every patient is given post-injection instructions to take home. This includes the option to treat discomfort with Tylenol (most other types of pain medication are not recommended due to anti-inflammatory properties). Do not touch the area, lay down, or sweat for at least four hours post-treatment.
What to Expect
How long Botox or Dysport lasts depends on the patient, the severity of muscle strength, post-treatment care, the skill of the injector, and the amount of units used. On average, Botox and Dysport last between three and six months. The effects of the injections will fade naturally. Maintenance injections are necessary to maintain the desired effect and to train muscles to become weaker over time. It is possible that routine maintenance injections may lead to muscle weakness, which can result in fewer necessary units or results that last longer.
There is no requisite downtime beyond avoiding touching the area, laying down, or sweating for four hours after treatment. It is common for many patients to schedule Botox or Dysport injections as a “lunch hour treatment” so they can return immediately to work. You might be a good candidate for neuromodulars if you are at least 18, want to improve your facial appearance, struggle with unwanted lines/wrinkles, and/or want to look younger, happier, healthier, and well-rested. To learn more or schedule a consultation or appointment, contact RefinedMD today.