Patients considering Botox have likely heard a variety of information from family, friends, and the media.
While some of these claims are accurate, there are also many misconceptions about Botox and other neuromodulators.
To separate fact from fiction before your first treatment, here are 11 Botox myths busted.
1) Botox Is the Only Injectable to Smooth Wrinkles and Fine Lines
Botox is the brand name for botulinum toxin type A and is able to limit the facial expressions that cause wrinkles. It’s considered a neuromodulator because it blocks the neural messages responsible for muscle contraction.
However, there are other highly effective and safe neuromodulator injectables, including Dysport and Xeomin.
Some injectors find that Dysport is more cost-effective, takes effect quicker, and lasts longer than Botox. While others prefer Xeomin as it only contains botulinum toxin without any additives making it a better option for patients with allergies or resistance to Botox.
2) Neuromodulators Are Harmful and Unsafe
Botox, Dysport, and Xeomin are made from a purified botulinum protein and are different in nature than the botulinum bacteria that causes food poisoning.
These neuromodulators have undergone rigorous testing and have been deemed safe by the FDA for cosmetic and medical uses.
3) Botox Is Only a Cosmetic Treatment
While Botox is most commonly associated with wrinkle reduction and aesthetic improvements, it also plays an important role in alleviating the symptoms of a number of medical conditions.
Currently, Botox has received FDA-approval for at least eight therapeutic uses including migraine headaches, muscle spasms in the face and neck, twitches that occur on only one side of the face, crossed-eyes, excessive sweating, drooling in conditions like Parkinson’s Disease, Frey’s Syndrome, and abnormal production of tears from damaged salivary glands.
4) It’s Painful and You Need a Lot of Recovery
Most patients find Botox to be relatively painless procedure with no downtime.
Plastic surgeons and dermatologist ice the treatment area prior to injecting and use very fine needles that that can barely be felt.
The treatment can last 10-25 minutes in most cases, and ice can be applied immediately after to reduce swelling and any discomfort.
5) There’s No Difference Between Botox and Dermal Fillers
While Botox and dermal fillers are both injectables, they are two very different procedures.
Botox is injected into the muscle to limit wrinkle-causing facial expressions (e.g. frowning, squinting) and smooth facial lines and creases. It is typically used to treat the forehead, in between the eyebrows, crow’s feet, corners of the mouth, and jawline.
Dermal fillers are injected into soft tissue to restore volume and add structure to sagging cheeks, hollow eyes and temples, deep nasolabial folds, fine lines around the lips, and thin, flat lips.
6) If You Get Botox or Another Neuromodulator, Your Face Will Look Frozen and Unnatural
Botox technique has significantly evolved over the past few years to produce very natural results.
A skilled injector can minimize lines and wrinkles, while retaining some facial mobility so that patients do not look frozen or expressionless.
7) Anyone Can Safely and Effectively Perform Botox
As it’s become one of the most requested cosmetic treatments, many untrained individuals are offering Botox that may even be diluted or expired.
It is important for patients to seek a board-certified dermatologist or plastic surgeon’s office for their treatments.
A skilled injector has the experience and knowledge to provide safe and natural results that work with each patient’s anatomy.
8) Botox Is Permanent
Over a period of four-to-six months, Botox gradually dissolves, muscles regain mobility, and wrinkles can reappear. Therefore, it is necessary for patients to have touch-up injections to maintain their results.
Although Botox does not provide permanent changes, over time, it can help stop new wrinkles from forming and prevent the worsening of existing lines and creases.
9) Once the Effects Wear Off, Your Face Will Look More Wrinkled
Dissolution of Botox does not cause lines and creases to worsen. When Botox wears off, muscles are able to fully contract and make facial expressions that can cause wrinkles.
10) Only Women Have Botox
Both female and male patients respond well to Botox treatments. Men often require larger doses (due to stronger facial muscles) and different product placement, compared to women.
11) Botox Results Are Instant
Most patients can note results within three-to-five days of receiving a neuromodulator treatment. However, it can take up to seven-to-10 days to see the full effects.
To learn more about Botox and other neuromodulators, please call CareLife Style today to schedule an appointment.
