There are many advantages to getting older. We gain insights that give us more wisdom to see us through new stages of life. We reach a point where we’re no longer “paying our dues” and are enjoying a thriving career. We have years of happy memories to look back on and well-established relationships that bring us joy. These are aspects of aging that most of us welcome. Where we struggle with getting older is in the way our bodies and faces change.
The signs of aging on the face cannot be hidden, so they often become frustrating. In our Tulsa plastic surgery office, patients may find their ideal solution for cosmetic aging in a syringe of BOTOX® Cosmetic. This non-surgical treatment effectively smoothes lines and wrinkles for a more youthful look.
Contact South Tulsa Plastic Surgery today at 918-518-5144 to learn more. We serve Tulsa, Broken Arrow, Owasso, Jenks, and the surrounding areas of Oklahoma.
What is BOTOX® Cosmetic?
Research conducted in the 1950s discovered that injecting minute amounts of purified botulinum toxin into a muscle could inhibit contractions. Initially, this neurotoxin was used to temporarily stop involuntary eyelid spasms and other muscular disorders. Since that time, the use of botulinum toxin has expanded significantly.
In 2002, the FDA approved the use of botulinum toxin in the form of BOTOX. The cosmetic drug has since been widely used to reduce the appearance of several aesthetic concerns. These include:
- Frown lines
- Worry lines on the forehead
- Crow’s feet at the outer edges of the eyes
- Drooping brow line
- Neck bands
BOTOX® is also used to reduce excessive sweating, migraine headaches, and a prominent masseter muscle caused by bruxism.
How Does BOTOX® Cosmetic Work?
Botulinum toxin has been used therapeutically for many years. Both therapeutically and cosmetically, this neuromodulator works by binding to nerves at the neuromuscular junction. Here, it inhibits the release of acetylcholine, the primary brain chemical that causes muscle contractions.
By preventing this chemical release, BOTOX® Cosmetic temporarily paralyzes the targeted muscles. When the muscles cannot contract strongly, the skin lies more smoothly.
Who is a Good Candidate for BOTOX® Cosmetic?
Most adults who are looking to enhance their appearance by eliminating dynamic lines and wrinkles may be good candidates for BOTOX® Cosmetic injections. It’s important to be in good health to receive treatment. People with neuromuscular disorders, or those who are pregnant or nursing, should not undergo this injectable treatment.
Before conducting BOTOX® Cosmetic injections, our Certified Aesthetic Injector performs a consultation to discuss your concerns and desired outcome. A brief evaluation of the skin and muscle is performed, as well. Treatment options are discussed based on the types of wrinkles that you want to correct. In some cases, dermal fillers are better products for stated concerns.
The BOTOX® Cosmetic Procedure
BOTOX® Cosmetic treatment takes only a few minutes after we have completed our consultation. Injections are administered using a very fine needle, so patients feel very little discomfort as injections are placed into designated muscles in the face or neck. No anesthetic is necessary.
How Long do Results from BOTOX Last?
Results from BOTOX last for three to four months. BOTOX interrupts the signal between nerves and muscles; it does not destroy these signals. Over time, the strength of nerve signals will return, and wrinkles will once again become noticeable. However, BOTOX does not exacerbate the aging process. Once the product has worn off, your face will simply return to its pre-treatment appearance.
How Quickly will I See BOTOX Results?
Results from BOTOX are often immediately noticeable, though it may take two to four days for muscles to relax. Once any residual redness or swelling subsides, the results should be entirely apparent. This process can take ten to fourteen days.
How can I Prepare for my BOTOX Treatment?
If you are taking blood-thinning medications, supplements, or herbs, you will need to stop a few weeks before your appointment to help prevent unnecessary bleeding. Alcohol should also be avoided for one to two days before your treatment.
Be sure to come to our office make-up free and with clean skin. Although we clean the treatment area, coming in with clean skin can help guard against potential contamination.
If specific considerations apply to your BOTOX preparation, we will ensure you have all the information you need.
How is BOTOX Different Than Dermal Fillers?
Dermal fillers address static wrinkles, like the deep creases on the cheeks or next to the lips. Fillers stimulate collagen production to add volume to the skin.
BOTOX treats dynamic wrinkles, like crow’s feet, bunny lines, and frown lines. It relaxes muscles but does not add volume to the skin.
How Often Can I Have BOTOX Injections?
It is safe to have BOTOX injections every month, though most people wait for three to four months before undergoing a touch-up. We can help you decide how often you should come in for touch-ups based on your goals.
Side Effects and Recovery
No downtime is needed after BOTOX® Cosmetic injections because side effects are mild and short-lived. Patients may experience redness at injection points, minor swelling, and mild soreness or tenderness.
Some people develop slight bruising in the treatment area. The chances of bruising can be minimized by avoiding alcohol and blood-thinning medications in the few days before injections.
Side effects are so discreet that patients can immediately resume normal activities. We advise postponing strenuous physical activity and lying face-down until the day after injectable treatment.
Schedule Your BOTOX® Cosmetic Consultation
If you want to learn more about BOTOX® Cosmetic and what it can do for you, please contact South Tulsa Plastic Surgery by calling 918-518-5144 or completing the form on this page. We serve Tulsa, Broken Arrow, Owasso, Jenks, and surrounding areas of Oklahoma and look forward to meeting you!
