How does Botox work?

Neuromodulators (Botox, Xeomin, and Dysport) target the underlying causes of wrinkling to the skin- repetitive muscle contractions from making facial expressions such as smiling, frowning, concentrating, and squinting. Over the years the underlying muscles develop grooves that cause creasing in the skin and can eventually lead to permanent wrinkling. Botox treatments work by blocking the electrical impulses that trigger muscle contraction.  They are administered through several injections and work by impeding muscle movement in the targeted areas. When your muscles can no longer go through their full range of movement, they can’t pull and stretch your skin into folds and wrinkles.

Treatment Results

Typically it takes 72 hours to see treatment results, although it might take up to 14 days for the full results to develop. Treatments typically last around 3-6 months, and the lines and skin folds gradually return as the medication wears off. Botox treatments can also be used for early prevention of wrinkles when utilized before the formation of expression lines in the face. As with any cosmetic treatment, individual results may vary.

What areas can be treated with Neuromodulators?

There are many areas of the face and body that can be treated with neurotoxins. The most common cosmetic treatment areas on the face are crow’s feet, forehead wrinkles, frown lines, bunny lines, pebble chin, and peri-oral lines. Neurotoxins can also be used to treat a gummy smile and temporarily increase the appearance of lip volume with an injection technique called the “lip flip”. Masseter hypertrophy (enlarged Masseter muscles) can also be treated, which can make a face look “bulky”. Enlarged masseters can also cause symptoms such as TMJ and headaches in some individuals. Botox treatments are also used to treat Hyperhidrosis (excessive sweating) of the underarms, feet, and hands.