Neurotoxins
Botox® Cosmetic
Botox injections are the most popular cosmetic procedure in the US. Without any invasive procedures you will look rested and refreshed. Botox Cosmetic is an FDA approved treatment for moderate to severe horizontal frown lines, crow’s feet and vertical forehead lines between the eyes (glabella lines or 11 lines). In a quick 10-minute procedure you can reverse time with subtle but noticeable improvements in deep facial lines and wrinkles.
What is Botox?
Botox Cosmetic is an injectable neurotoxin that is a safe and purified form of botulinum toxin A. Other injectable neurotoxins are Dysport® and Xeomin®. Each product has the same applications but different characteristics and formulations. All are FDA approved. The choice of product will be made by Dr. Heather Higgins, a board-certified dermatologist in Asheville, N.C. She will determine the best product for you based on your goals and needs.
How does Botox work?
When injected in very small doses Botox will improve the wrinkles caused by repetitive facial muscle contractions, called dynamic wrinkles. It works by blocking signals from the nerves to the muscles, to temporarily prevent muscle contractions which softens your expressions and reduces dynamic wrinkles, smoothing the skin over the muscles. The result is a naturally revitalized appearance.
How long does it last?
The effects of Botox typically develop slowly over 5-7 days after the injections with full effects visible by 14 days. Effects last 4-6 months. Regular maintenance injections can prolong results and even decrease the dose needed to accomplish your goal if done just before the effects wear off. Younger patients, in their late 20s and 30s, who are just beginning to develop dynamic wrinkles can prevent their formation or progression with Botox injections.
Cosmetic applications include:
- to improve the appearance of moderate to severe vertical frown lines between the eyebrows (called glabellar lines)
- to smooth crow’s feet around the eyes
- to soften forehead creases
- to smooth bunny line around the nose
- to soften lines around the mouth
- to elevate the tip of the nose
- to soften neck bands
Why you need an expert
Botox injections are technique sensitive which means you want an expert who understands facial anatomy and the experience to strategically inject Botox to enhance your appearance.
An expert like Dr. Heather Higgins can use Botox for these additional cosmetic concerns:
- To create a mini eyebrow lift by injecting the muscles under the brows to elevate the brow which opens the eyes and tightens drooping eyelids
- To lift the corners of the mouth to improve your smile and relax your frown
- To reduce the amount of gum tissue you show for a more balanced smile
- To improve the appearance of a dimpled chin
- To improve the look of enlarged pores, mesotherapy or tiny injections of Botox around the pores will shrink them
- To reduce enlarged jaw muscles to balance facial symmetry and improve the jawline
How much do you need?
Botox cosmetic is measure in units. Each area to be treated requires a specific number of units. For instance, the typical number of units necessary to reduce forehead lines is 10-30 units. An eyebrow lift can be done with 2-5 units. Dr. Higgins will be able to determine what you need during your consultation based on the areas you desire to treat.
Your consultation
During your consultation Dr. Higgins will evaluate your areas of concern, review your medical history and ensure you have no medications that can interfere with the action of Botox. Patients who take aspirin daily NSAIDS and/or blood thinners and muscle relaxers may be advised to discontinue these medications before treatment. Pregnant and nursing women should avoid Botox.
Botox treatments are safe and effective for men and women who desire to rejuvenate your appearance without surgery. Contact Dr. Higgins to schedule a consultation today.
