Whether you’re thinking about Botox for the first time or have had previous experience with Botox, it is likely that you have a few misconceptions about the product. Below are some of the common myths about Botox, and the correct information you need to make a positive choice about whether Botox is right for you.
Myth: Botox fills lines and wrinkles
Fact: Botox interferes with communication between nerves and muscles
Many people believe Botox is a type of filler, injected beneath the skin to raise wrinkles. It does not fill or raise the skin. Instead, it prevents the nerve endings from controlling your facial muscles from communicating with those muscles.
This makes it best at preventing new wrinkles from forming and reducing wrinkles visible when you tense your face rather than filling out well-established wrinkles.
A skilled practitioner, like those on the Vermont Med Spa team, can use Botox to reduce muscle function without completely stopping it by injecting only some of the nerves controlling each muscle. This allows you to keep your natural animation without giving you a frozen look many people associate with Botox.
Myth: Botox is an instant treatment
Fact: Results slowly emerge for a week or longer
Botox is often called a lunchtime procedure because you can have it done in half an hour. It’s true the placement of Botox is relatively quick, especially if you’ve already completed a consultation or previous treatment at the Vermont Med Spa. But Botox is not exactly instant.
You should prepare for your Botox treatment for at least a week before your appointment by avoiding alcohol and stopping blood thinning medications including anti-inflammatories. This helps prevent bruising after the treatment.
Additionally, your wrinkles may take a few days to relax. In about a week, you will start to notice significant results, and peak results are usually achieved in about two weeks.
Myth: Everyone will be able to tell you’ve had Botox
Fact: With an experienced doctor many people may not be able to tell why you look so well-rested or refreshed
Botox is among the top five non-invasive cosmetic procedures in the US. In both 2016 and 2017, there were over seven million Botox applications. Unfortunately, many of those applications are completed by unskilled practitioners with little or no training.
Although Botox may be relatively easy to apply, it is quite difficult to apply well. The person applying the Botox should know appropriate doses of the drug and also be able to assess your face symmetry and wrinkles that appear while you are talking, laughing, or otherwise using your face.
This is the knowledge that comes with experience, and many places that offer Botox do not have enough experience to produce quality results. Dr. El Asmar and his team at Vermont Med Spa are experienced practitioners, who can effectively use Botox to give you a natural, youthful appearance.
Myth: Botox is only for wrinkles
Fact: Botox has many medical and cosmetic uses
Botox’s original medical use was for eye disorders. Because it prohibits muscle function, it is used to treat many issues caused by muscle spasms such as tremors, tics, and muscle pain or cramps.
It is also used to treat migraines, allergies, and sweating disorders. Its cosmetic benefits were accidentally discovered in the 1990’s.
Besides smoothing wrinkles, Botox can also treat sagging skin and stretch marks. It can even improve the symmetry of your face. Because of the many uses, you may think Botox is a miracle cure for everyone.
However, you will need a consultation to determine if you are a candidate for Botox or if another procedure will better fit your needs. You can schedule a consultation with Dr. El Asmar online or by phone.