Over the last few years, “Botox” has become a household term. And when we say the word, we think about Hollywood, movie stars, beauty and glamour.
Most of us use the term indiscriminately to describe any and all cosmetic procedures.
But what exactly is Botox?
Botox is the brand name of the medication, onobotulinuim toxin, that is commonly used to treat a variety of medical & cosmetic dermatology conditions.
Onobotulinum toxin is a neurotoxin derived from the bacterial organism Clostridium. Although the toxin can be hazardous, in the small doses used for medical purposes, it is entirely safe.
Because the term neurotoxin has a negative connotation, it has largely been replaced by the more elegant term “neuromodulator.”
In dermatology, neuromodulators such as Botox, are used primarily to bring back youth and make one look less tired by eliminating deep creases and wrinkles on the face.
Botox is also used to treat excessive sweating of the underarms effectively, a condition called hyperhidrosis.
Botox has been used to treat millions of patients in Canada and all over the world for both wrinkles and excess sweating.
It has become the most popular, safe, and effective cosmetic treatment performed to date.
How does it work?
Deep wrinkles on the face are caused by the contraction or movement of muscles. When wrinkles are caused by movement, they are called dynamic lines.
Acetylcholine is the neurotransmitter released from nerve endings that causes our muscles to contract. Neuromodulators such as Botox, work by blocking the release of acetylcholine, resulting in a much weaker or non-existant muscle contraction. This contributes to the softening and elimination of facial wrinkles. The effect is quite dramatic and can last up to 6 months.
What areas are treated with Botox?
The 3 most common areas on the face that can be effectively treated with botox neuromodulator include:
Glabella: This is the region between the eyebrows. Some people refer to the creases here as called the “elevens” as they resemble the number 11. Other people call this are their “furrowed brow.” The wrinkles in this area make people look angry, intense, and older.
Crow’s Feet: These are the lines that fan out from the lateral side of the eyes and resemble the feet of crow’s or other birds. These wrinkles are more pronounced with smiling.
Forehead: These are the wrinkles and lines that extend from left to right across the upper and mid-forehead. When they are too deep, they make people look intense, angry, and older.
Botox softens and dramatically reduces wrinkles of the face resulting in a more beautiful version of yourself.
What happens during the procedure?
- You will be sitting upright or on a slight slant in an examination chair.
- A cleaning solution will be used to prep your face.
- The proper amount and dilution of botox will be drawn up.
- Botox neuromodulator face will be gently injected into the of your face using a tiny needle.
- The injections are relatively painless.
- The entire procedure takes about 15 minutes.
- It will 3-4 days for the botox neuromodulator to take effect.
Are there any side effects associated with botox?
The potential side effects of botox injections are rare but include:
- Minor pain during injections
- A minor headache
- Minor bruising, swelling and redness at the sites of injection
- The temporary droopiness of your eyelids or eyebrows
- Lack of long-lasting effect.
At Heart Lake Cosmetic Dermatology, we have been performing Botox for over a decade. We only use brand name Botox and never use substitutes or over dilute.
It’s always best to have your Botox treatment performed in a credible medical setting by a board-certified dermatologist.
Contact Heart Lake Cosmetic Dermatology to book your appointment today.
