Sorting fact from fiction about Botox injection treatment
Dr. Downie offers a wide variety of minimally invasive solutions at image Dermatology ® P.C. in Montclair, near Glen Ridge NJ. She is nationally known for her expertise and in-depth knowledge of anti-aging procedures. Many patients ask her for guidance when considering a treatment such as Botox injections.
Questions often begin with, “I saw this on the internet…” and end with, “is it true?” While some patients are well informed with accurate information, others have fallen victim to urban legends, online rumors, and confusion. Below we explain some of the most common myths and misunderstandings surrounding this popular procedure.
Botox and botulism
Botox has been used in the United States and globally for more than fifteen years. In that time, millions of men and women have been treated, with a high percentage of them continuing Botox use for years. The procedure has an excellent record of safety, and few reports of complications. Yet, misinformation about safety persist. Most notably, patients often ask if they can get botulism from Botox injections. The short answer is, “no.”
Botox is formulated with purified botulinum toxin A, which is a byproduct of clostridium botulinum bacteria.
- The product does not contain any bacteria, so you can’t be infected.
- Botulinum toxin A acts locally, meaning it only affects nerves near the injection site. It can’t affect your organs or breathing-related muscles unless it is injected there.
- The effects of Botox are dose-dependent. It would take an enormous amount to potentially paralyze a muscle. Cosmetic treatment is performed using very small amounts, which relax facial muscles while still allowing natural movement and expressions.
Is it too soon for treatment?
Another common Botox myth relates to the timing of treatment. At first you notice a few subtle lines when you squint, then they become etched-in, even when your face is relaxed. Over time, more lines appear, and they are more predominant. Maybe it’s time to think about Botox, right? Nope! The time to start thinking Botox was when the first hint of a line appeared.
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Although it has a reputation as a corrective treatment, Botox is also one of the best preventive anti-aging procedures available. The longer you wait, the more rigid muscles will become. Additionally, lines become set into skin, because it is always folded in the same place. If you wait until signs of aging appear, you will need to start by reversing them. Alternately, you can start early, keep those muscles relaxed, and stop crow’s feet before they start.
Avoiding frozen face
Erasing lines and wrinkles sounds wonderful, but the idea of erasing facial expressions doesn’t. Do you have to choose between an expressive face or a youthful face? Absolutely not! The dreaded frozen faced look comes from overzealous, likely inexperienced, injectors who use too high of dosage. When you choose a skilled, experienced injector such as Dr. Downie, the dosage and location of injections is carefully planned with precision, for maximum effectiveness with a natural looking appearance.Dr. Downie has a forehead that moves naturally but does not wrinkle at all. She calls this “bouncy Botox”.
Complete anti-aging treatment
Botox has a world-wide reputation as the premier wrinkle remover. Therefore, it’s not surprising that some people expect Botox to remove all their wrinkles. However, the aging process is quite complex, and comprehensive treatment requires a multi-faceted approach. No one product can effectively treat all types of wrinkles. Botox is formulated specifically for dynamic wrinkles, which are caused by muscles beneath the skin. If you are troubled by sagging skin and folds caused by volume loss, then dermal fillers are a better choice. If you wish to correct both types of wrinkles, Dr. Downie will likely recommend a customized treatment plan incorporating Botox along with fillers. This popular combination is often called a liquid facelift.
The best way to get answers to your pressing questions and learn about the best anti-aging solution for your unique situation is to visit image Dermatology ® P.C. for a consultation. Call (973) 509-6900 to schedule.