Botox is a classic injectable neuromodulator that relaxes the facial muscles to create a taut, youthful appearance free from fine lines and wrinkles. It is one of the most popular cosmetic procedures in the world. Many studies have confirmed that Botox has become not only well‐established but is evidence‐based medicine on its highest level.[1]
Despite being labelled a toxin, botox is safe and effective when correctly administered in small doses. It has been well-documented that Botox offers a convenient, efficient, and well-accepted treatment for improving wrinkles.[2]
Although achieving results with Botox may seem straightforward and simple, it is a belief among practicing professionals that there is an “art,” if you will, to injecting Botox, and that skill only increases with experience.[3]
Keep reading to see if you would benefit from Botox, then reach out to Dr. Justin Booth for a consultation. Dr. Booth brings years of extensive training in cosmetic and reconstructive plastic surgery to the Austin community. His practice gives patients the highest quality experience and beautiful results. His patient reviews are a testament to Dr. Booth’s skill as a 5-star level surgeon. Call now at (512) 755-8478 to get started.
Dr. Booth and his friendly staff look forward to unveiling your new self to the world.
How Does Botox Work?
For our muscles to contract, our nerves release a chemical called acetylcholine that attaches to the muscle cell receptors, which causes them to contract.
Botox targets the nervous system and blocks the release of our acetylcholine, which stops the muscles from contracting, resulting in a less active, more relaxed face, and the reduction of wrinkles.
Most Common Injection Sites
- Between the eyebrows
- Around the eyes
- Corners of the mouth
- Forehead
- Chin
Potential Adverse Side Effects
Even though it has been approved for use by the FDA, there are still some risks involved in Botox as there is in undergoing any elective procedure. The response to the injection can vary from patient to patient. A single dose might not be enough for one patient, and in another, it could be too much. Most side effects are short-lived and usually resolve themselves. It is good to learn about them to know what to expect and have the safest experience possible.
Adverse side effects will occur if your injections are not prepared to the FDA’s standards.
When administered by a trained professional, the risk of complication is minimal. However, if one were to get a substandard treatment, side effects could include:
- Dry eyes
- Mild pain, swelling, and bruising
- Flu-like symptoms
- Difficulty breathing or swallowing
- Irregular heartbeat
- Dry mouth
- Constipation & nausea
- Numbness
- Temporary drooping of the eyelid
- Headaches
Benefits of Botox
Once feared as a serious toxin, Botox has since been rediscovered as a highly regarded aesthetic agent.[4] Botox eliminates creases, wrinkles, and fine lines in the face by calming the muscles. The process is minimally-invasive, quick, and can be done in your doctor’s office. It’s also a great way to feel attractive as you age and it helps you look and feel good.
Candidates
You should first talk to a medical professional about whether you would be the ideal candidate for Botox treatments. Botox is perfect for somebody in good health who:
- Has unwanted facial wrinkles
- Has wrinkles located on treatable areas like the forehead, neck, and between and around the eyes.
- Has realistic expectations.
Botox does not respond to lines and wrinkles caused by sun damage or gravity. You should not take Botox if you are allergic to any of its ingredients or are pregnant or breastfeeding.
Personal Consultation
Request a personal consultation with Dr. Booth if you think you would be an ideal candidate for Botox treatments.
Preparation
First, you want to make sure you are referred to a physician who has specialized training with these kinds of injection treatments.
Avoid any blood-thinning medications to reduce the risk of bleeding and bruising.
Procedure
The procedure is quick and takes place in your doctor’s office or med spa.
Your practitioner will first numb the area with a topical anesthetic. They will then proceed to inject the Botox into the tissue.
The process can take half an hour, depending on the level of treatment received.
Recovery
After your treatment, for the next 24 hours you must not rub or massage the treated area. After 24 hrs has passed, you may resume daily activities. Don’t engage in strenuous physical activity for the next day or so.
Results
Botox can take up to 24 to 72 hours to fully take effect and can last up to 3 to 5 months depending on treatment level. Maintaining your results will require follow-up injections to be scheduled.
Complementary Procedures
To achieve maximum results, some patients like to combine their Botox procedures with additional work.
Med Spa Services
In addition to our various neuromodulator treatments, Booth Plastic Surgery’s med spa services includes other facial augmentation procedures like dermal fillers, facial implants, fat transfers, and lip fillers.
Mommy Makeover
A mommy makeover is a combination procedure of lipo, tummy tuck, and breast augmentation that is crafted to restore a woman’s body back to its pre-pregnancy glory.
Facial Rejuvenation
Facial rejuvenation is another package of procedures designed to bring youth and luster to the face. To address asymmetry, lax skin, or lack of volume, anything from a neck lift, nose job, fillers, fat transfers, and eyelid surgery can provide solutions to your issues. Schedule your consultation now to find out which treatment combination is right for you.
How Much Do Botox Treatments Cost in Austin, TX?
The cost of Botox procedures depends on the level of the treatment itself. Every patient is unique, so their costs will be tailored to their goals.
Call 512-755-8478 to discuss your aesthetic expectations with a medical professional. We will provide transparent pricing as part of your comprehensive consultation.
The uses of Botox for facial esthetics procedures continue to expand, with new techniques and formulations.[5] Reach out to Dr. Booth today to unlock your potential.
If you enjoyed learning all about the benefits of Botox, we recommend you check out Booth Plastic Surgery on social media. Stay up to date and share your thoughts with us on Instagram and Facebook. We hope to see you soon.
FAQ
Botox is a brand of injectable neuromodulator that relaxes the facial muscles in order to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
Acetylcholine is the chemical that our nervous system releases to contract our muscles. Botox blocks the release of this chemical.
Botox can be used to treat lines and wrinkles on a variety of facial areas, including the forehead, eye area, and lip lines. It can also be injected to soften dimpling of the chin. Additionally, Botox can be injected into the muscles of the jaw to help alleviate pain from teeth grinding or TMJ or for a jaw slimming effect.
There may be some initial discomfort from the injection, but the procedure is usually not considered painful.
Depending on your level of treatment, results can last up to 3 to 5 months before the Botox gets metabolized in the body. Routine maintenance will be needed every few months to preserve the Botox’s effects.
Yes, Botox is safe. While it is FDA-approved, Botox should not be taken if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, or suffer from certain neurological diseases.
Side effects from Botox treatments can include bruising, swelling, redness, or tenderness around the injection site, all of which will solve itself within a few days to a week.
Schedule a consultation with Dr. Booth to discuss your goals and expectations to determine whether or not you’d be the right candidate for Botox.
To prepare for Botox treatments, you should avoid drinking alcohol and taking blood-thinning supplements and medications like ibuprofen or aspirin.
Botox stops lines and wrinkles by relaxing the muscles. Botox usually treats the areas around the forehead and eyes. Fillers use a special gel to fill in and round out areas lacking volume. Fillers usually treat the areas around the mouth, lips, and cheeks, but fillers can also be used to treat the areas around the forehead and scar tissue.
References
- Wollina, U., Goldman, A., Berger, U., & Abdel‐Naser, M. B. (2008). Esthetic and cosmetic dermatology. Dermatologic Therapy, 21(2), 118-130. doi:https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1529-8019.2008.00179.x
- Frampton, J.E., Easthope, S.E. Botulinum Toxin A (Botox® Cosmetic). Am J Clin Dermatol 4, 709–725 (2003). https://doi.org/10.2165/00128071-200304100-00005
- Frankel, A. S., MD, & Markarian, A., MD. (2007). Cosmetic Treatments and Strategies for the Upper Face. Facial Plastic Surgery Clinics, 15(1), 31-39. doi:https://doi.org/10.1016/j.fsc.2006.11.004
- Carruthers, J., & Carruthers, A. (2007). The evolution of botulinum neurotoxin type A for cosmetic applications. Journal of Cosmetic and Laser Therapy, 9(3), 186-192. doi:https://doi.org/10.1080/14764170701411470
- Flynn, T. C., MD. (2012). Advances in the use of botulinum neurotoxins in facial esthetics. Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 11(1), 42-50. doi:https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1473-2165.2011.00593.x