According to information provided by the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, the majority of patients who seek cosmetic surgery have one major concern: wrinkle reduction. However, a number of common myths about cosmetic procedures may be keeping some patients from reaching their goals with unrealistic expectations of what the procedure and recovery can do for them in the long run. Some of these myths are outlined below.
The science behind wrinkle formation
These lines and wrinkles occur naturally and are a result of the body’s own make-up. As we grow older, various physical processes create lines and wrinkles in our skin, which then become a permanent feature as we age. Typically, the muscles in our face move and contract in order to form expressions, but these contractions are usually harmless because they only last for a brief period of time. Eventually, the muscle contractions create lines and creases in the face, and as we age, these lines become more permanent because of the decreased levels of collagen in the skin and because even brief contractions are enough to create a groove in the skin over time.
Some lines and wrinkles are dynamic, meaning they appear when you’re making expressions and then disappear when relaxed. Other lines and wrinkles are static. These are permanent lines that are always present. For dynamic lines and wrinkles, Neurotoxin is the best solution. By relaxing the muscles that move the skin, dynamic lines and wrinkles can be prevented. For static lines and wrinkles, Dermal fillers are used to replace volume that has been lost causing indented folds and creases.
How neurotoxin treatments work
By blocking nerve function to muscles, Botulinum toxin relaxes muscles responsible for particular lines and wrinkles, resulting in the removal of those lines and wrinkles. The treatments are quick and takes around 10-15 minutes to administer small amounts of liquid via an ultra-fine needle into muscles on the face.
You should see the results within 3-7 days, with the maximum effect achieved at 2 weeks post-injection. Muscle function will return to normal in 3-4 months. Repetitive treatments are needed to maintain the results. Most patients experience a quick pinch with the injections.
We are experienced dermatologists and skincare professionals who understand the anatomy of the face and how all the muscles work together. This knowledge, combined with years of practice, is what allows us to know just the right places to administer Botox injections in Jacksonville to achieve our clients’ goals. We also know which muscles not to “freeze” in order to allow our patients to look and express themselves naturally, avoiding an over-done or unnatural look and instead achieving a balanced and fresh appearance.
Setting realistic expectations about results and timeline
Patients want instant results, but generally for the first few days after treatment there will be some swelling and bruising which temporarily obscures results. Some patients notice changes as early as 48 hours. Full results are achieved in about 2 weeks.
First time patients may require further treatments as results can increase up to 60-80% in the reduction of wrinkle depth; complete elimination of deeper lines is rare. New patients will receive different amounts of filler until optimal results are achieved.
As with any skin treatment, results of Botulinum Toxin vary greatly with age and skin condition. In the 30s with dynamic lines, patients tend to look their best before and after treatment. However, in older patients with static lines of aging, the results may not be as dramatic, yet very pleasing. The key is to look “refreshed,” not “frozen.” Patients want to look as though they have been “rejuvenated,” without a noticeable change in expression. By combining treatments of the face, we can create a refreshed appearance which conveys a sense of confidence and continues to allow the patient to interact with others naturally.
Potential side effects and risk factors
Most side effects are minor and occur in less than 20% of patients. Some possible side effects are bruising or swelling at the site, redness or itching, or headaches which usually resolve in 24-48 hours.
There is no such thing as a 100% risk-free procedure, but even with the best technology and most skilled of hands, rare but serious complications can still occur. Temporarily droopy eyelids (ptosis) is the least common of these, and it affects less than 1% of patients. It is temporary and usually goes away on its own as the toxin breaks down. There is also the risk of some degree of asymmetry, but a quick touch up can soon rectify the problem.
Client suitability for EMI treatment: The client must be suitable for EMI treatment. Some medical or psychological conditions, present circumstances, or use of medication may render a person unsuitable for treatment with EMI. Some examples of such conditions include: Epilepsy; Certain forms of neuroses; Pregnancy; Nursing; Major tranquilizers.
Maximizing treatment longevity
Results may vary depending on individual patient factors. Some patients require maintenance treatments every three to four months due to strong muscles or other factors, as the solution is absorbed and inactivated by the body over time. Patients who participate in regular activities may also break down the solution more quickly.
To maintain optimal results, consistent treatment is necessary. Allowing too much time to pass between visits will allow muscles to fully recover and reduce effectiveness of future treatments. Depending on individual results, appointments are typically scheduled every 3-4 months post initial treatment and then further apart as optimal results are achieved with increased dosage over time.
Remember that your skin care regimen outside of the office is just as important as the products we use here in the office. Using a broad spectrum sunscreen on a daily basis, as well as using products between treatments that contain retinoids and other anti-aging ingredients that help to stimulate collagen production, can greatly enhance your results.
The importance of provider selection
While some providers are more experienced with using fillers and muscle relaxants for facial rejuvenation, here at Atlanta Face & Body we have a diverse range of experience to provide a variety of treatment options to our patients. Those most well versed in skin care and facial rejuvenation include providers formally trained in skin care including Board-Certified Dermatologists and Plastic Surgeons. Additionally, many Nurse Practitioners and Physician Assistants have received specialized training in the use of cosmetic fillers and muscle relaxants, and are supervised by a Board-Certified Physician to ensure excellent patient care.
Get educated on the practitioner you plan on seeing for a Botox or Dermal Filler procedure. Ask about their formal training. Ask how many Botox/Dermal Fillers they have administered. Ask about the frequency of complications. Review before and after photos from their practice that demonstrate similar treatments. Be wary of the practitioner that is being overly aggressive with their initial suggestions. This may be an indicator that they are not as safety conscious as you would hope.
Similar to all skin treatments, it is fundamental that the application of wrinkle reduction is performed both safely and correctly. Initial expectations may need to be managed; however, with the appropriate training, realistic expectations and operators, successful results can be achieved.
