What are Neurotoxins (Botox, Dysport, etc.)?
Neurotoxins are a class of medication used to treat fine lines and wrinkles. Several companies produce them and have given them brand names (such as Botox, Dysport, etc.). They all have slightly different properties with their own unique advantages. These medications are derived from the bacteria Clostridium botulinum. Botox and other neurotoxins work by blocking the ability of the muscles that cause wrinkles to move. Once those muscles are stabilized, the wrinkles go away in about 1 to 2 weeks.
What can it treat?
Fine lines and wrinkles that move are ideal candidates for treatment. Common treatment areas include:
Frown lines
Forehead lines
Crow’s feet
Bunny lines
Under eye wrinkles
Gummy smile
Lip lines
The amount of units injected varies depending on the site and which medicine is used.
What is treatment like?
Botox and other neurotoxin treatments are incredibly simple, quick, and easy procedures. They can be performed in a 15 minute office appointment. The smallest possible needle is used to perform a series of injections in the desired area. Many patients find this completely painless. Once the injections are complete, you may return to your normal activities immediately. There is no downtime (aside from not lying down for 4 hours post treatment) and the only common complication is the occasional bruising from the needle that resolves in a few days.
We also have methods to make the procedure less painful!
What to expect post treatment and other information?
Results typically take about 1 to 2 weeks for full effect. On average, results last about 3 months (however, this can range between 2 and 4 months and is different for every patient). Dr. Jessica Kim does all the cosmetic injections in our office, so you will be in great hands. She prefers to steer away from the “fake” look - we can always inject more if needed. Our patients can trust us to use Botox and other neurotoxins to deliver subtle results that improve confidence and result in a refreshed look. We do not treat our patients to extreme measures and unnatural appearances. You’ll look like yourself, only with less noticeable lines and wrinkles and more confidence. Our goal is to provide a refreshed well rested look that is hard for someone to exactly pinpoint what was done.
Over 7 million men and women get botox and other neurotoxin injections every year. That number continues to grow. The fast growing segments of people getting Botox and other neurotoxins are men and those in their 30’s.