We show our emotions by smiling, frowning, and laughing. During youth, our skin is firm and smooth enough to make our smile and frown lines disappear immediately, but as we age, those lines can begin to be etched in, remaining even when facial expressions rest at neutral. These wrinkles caused by repetitive movements are known as “dynamic” wrinkles, and almost everyone has to deal with them eventually. However, most people are not pleased to see these signs of aging pop up, and many people have considered anti-aging treatments such as Botox or Dysport to temporarily smooth dynamic wrinkles.
Botulinum toxin treatments are an effective way to reduce the appearance of dynamic wrinkles through a quick and easy injection process that involves little discomfort and no downtime. These injectable treatments work by partially limiting the movements of specific facial muscles to ease the appearance of facial wrinkles for 3-4 months on average. Common areas treated include the outer corners of the eyes (“crows’ feet”), the horizontal lines across the forehead, and the “frown lines” between the eyebrows.
There are two popular brands of botulinum toxin injections: Botox, and Dysport. Botox is the classic, tried and true treatment that has been used for decades to relax unwanted facial wrinkles. Dysport is a more recent competitor to Botox, but it works in almost exactly the same way, with a few minor differences that some patients find to be an improvement.
Botulinum toxin treatments are one of the most common cosmetic procedures in the United States, continuing to grow in popularity with a variety of demographics. Today, Botox and Dysport are common treatments for men and women alike. Patients typically find they have improve self-esteem and confidence following treatment, and are generally very happy with the results.
Consultation
If you think you are ready for Botox or Dysport, then your next step is a consultation with Dr. Alvarez in Miami. While this is a common procedure, it’s still important to meet with an expert before you proceed with the treatment. Dr. Alvarez will assess your goals and candidacy for the procedure before determining your candidacy and making recommendations about your treatment. He may suggest different or additional procedure depending on your needs for treatment.
Once you and Dr. Alvarez have discussed your treatment, you will have the opportunity to ask any questions you may have.
Ideal Candidates
Botulinum toxin treatments are very safe, and people who would like anti-aging results without surgery are typically good candidates for the procedure. Patients should be in general good health and have realistic expectations for the procedure, but there are few limitations on candidacy for the treatments. Prospective patients on blood thinners will need to discuss this with a plastic surgeon prior to scheduling treatment.
Procedure
Botulinum toxin treatments involve a simple injection process that can be performed quickly—in fact, many patients have their treatments during their lunch hour.
Most patients describe the discomfort of the procedure as similar to a pinch for each injection, but for patients who are nervous about discomfort, a topical anesthesia may be used to numb the area. Once the patient is ready, Dr. Alvarez will use a fine needle to administer units of the chosen product to the areas to be treated. Patients can resume their day shortly after the treatment has been completed. The results of the treatment should start to become apparent within about 3-7 days following the injection process.
Recovery
One of the perks of Botox treatment is that there is no downtime involved whatsoever. Patients can resume normal activities, including exercise, right away. Mild side effects may occur, including pain, redness, and swelling at the injection site, headache, and fatigue, which should subside quickly. More serious side effects can occur, but these are very rare and will be discussed with you prior to the procedure.
Choosing the Right Surgeon
Though Botox and Dysport are common treatments available from many different providers, it is important to limit your search to include only expert plastic surgeons. While it may seem like the procedure is simple and easy, it takes a surprising amount of skill to inject these treatments for optimal results and patient safety.
Take your time when searching for your surgeon, and be sure to meet with a few different providers before you make a decision. If you like the results of your treatment, you will probably be going back to see your provider every few months, so it’s important to find a surgeon you can trust.
FAQs
What are the differences between Botox and Dysport? Which one is right for me?
Both Botox and Dysport are made from Botulinum Toxin A, but there are small differences between the two products. Dysport tends to spread a little more than Botox, making it ideal for many small wrinkles in an area, but less precise than its competitor. Some people also think that Dysport starts working a few days before Botox does.
Is it possible to become immune to Botox or Dysport?
Yes. Unfortunately, some people do become immune to the treatment over time, with the injections failing to smooth wrinkles for even a short amount of time. Sometimes however, switching brands can help alleviate this problem.
Can using Botox or Dysport when you’re young help prevent aging?
While more and more young people all the time are choosing to undergo botulinum toxin injections in their 20s to prevent aging, there is no clear evidence that this practice accomplishes its goals.
Will Botox and Dysport look natural?
Because botulinum toxin affects the movement of facial muscles, many prospective patients are worried about looking unnatural or “frozen” after treatment. However, when the treatment is performed by a skilled and experienced physician, you should not have any problems making normal facial expressions, and the results of the procedure should look very natural.
What are the possible side effects of Botox?
Aside from the normal side effects related to the injection process, there are some rare complications that can occur. Some side effects may include:
- Drooping eyelids
- Double vision
- Blurred vision
- Eye problems
- Eyelid swelling
- Dry eyes
- Allergic reaction
- Neck pain
You should always report any unusual side effects to your doctor right away for your safety.
Schedule your consultation with Dr. Alvarez today! Call 305-600-4146 or fill out the contact form in this page.