How do frown lines and crows feet develop?

There are many factors that determine how the skin ages. This includes the amount of sun exposure in one’s life, genetic factors and hormonal influences as well as mechanical and environmental factors.
The lines that appear between the brows (glabellar lines), in the area next to the eyes (crow’s feet) and in the forehead result from repeated contractions of the muscles underlying the skin during the actions of frowning, squinting and smiling and raising the brows. Initially these lines are only noticeable during animation.  After years of crinkling and wrinkling, these lines become more pronounced and eventually permanent. With Botox Cosmetic, we can improve the appearance of these lines and if used early enough we can actually prevent their formation.

Botox Cosmetic: Why is it so popular?  Is it just about lines?

There is a common misconception that Botox is merely about treating lines and wrinkles. It only takes one treatment for patients to realize it is much more than that. Botox Cosmetic therapy involves gently reshaping the brows and altering their position as well as rounding and opening the eyes. These beneficial effects translate into a refreshed, more youthful appearance.
The ultimate complement we look for you to get is for your close friends and family to tell you that you look great but not be able to ‘put their finger on it’. Comments like the following are common; have you been on vacation? Have you changed your hair? Have you started working out? Did you get a good night sleep last night?

What is special about the process of Botox Cosmetic injections at Essence Aesthetics?

The desired effects of Botox Cosmetic are quite personal in nature. Dr. Burgess will first ask about our patients to describe their goals of Botox therapy and together they we will create a treatment plan. Factors such as whether dermal fillers like Restylane or Juvederm will be utilized to complement the effects of Botox Cosmetic may influence the pattern of injections.

We then take before photos to establish a baseline image which shows the pre-treatment shape and position of the brows and shape of the eyes. We will use this photo to analyze the changes that will occur.

Dr. Burgess will then evaluate patterns of facial muscle movement and look for asymmetries. Patients leave the office with no signs that injections were done. Post treatment photographs are performed in two weeks.

What are some patients' concerns about Botox Cosmetic injections?

The most common obstacle to therapy with Botox is a fear that Botox will make a patient look frozen. This effect is completely avoidable and this result suggests that the treatment was performed by an inexperienced practitioner. Our goal is to achieve wonderful, natural looking results. Our patients learn to understand the approach and techniques we utilize to accomplish this goal.

Do Botox Cosmetic injections hurt and will the treatment require downtime?

Dr. Burgess uses tiny specialized needles for Botox injections that make the process very comfortable. No anesthesia is required and downtime is definitely not expected afterwards. Bruising is not common.

Can Botox Cosmetic injections be done on the same visit as dermal fillers (i.e. Restylane or Juvederm) or with laser treatments?

Yes. We often provide filler injections on the same day as Botox. The results of each therapy complement the others and provide a more comprehensive, rejuvenated appearance. Many laser treatments can also be performed on the same day as well but it is wise to confirm that the specific laser to be utilized will not interfere with the effects of Botox.
A common scenario is to use Botox for the dynamic wrinkles (wrinkles present during a muscle activity) and a filler for the static wrinkles (wrinkles present at rest). Botox is more commonly used in the upper face and fillers in the lower face.

What happens after the procedure?

There's no recovery time needed. You're ready to get on with your day!  We ask that you not recline or manipulate the area of treatment for 4 hours after the injection.

What are the possible side effects and complications of Botox Cosmetic?

Side effects and complications are very uncommon. They include temporary decrease in brow height and rarely eyelid droop. Localized pain, infection, inflammation, tenderness, swelling, redness, and/or bleeding/bruising may be associated with the injection but these effects are quite atypical.

We do not perform Botox Cosmetic injections on patients that are pregnant or breast feeding. Furthermore, patients with certain neuromuscular disorders such as ALS, myasthenia gravis, or Lambert-Eaton syndrome may be at increased risk of serious side effects

What other areas of the face can be treated? 

Botox Cosmetic can be used to treat vertical lipstick lines, bunny lines, dimpling on the chin as well as other areas of the face.

How long does Botox last and how can I make it last longer?

The results of Botox Cosmetic typically last around 4 months. By coming in for retreatment before the effects of the last treatment fully wear off the muscles never get a chance to fully recover and the longevity of the effect can be enhanced. If you discontinue treatment, the frown lines between your brows gradually will look like they did before treatment.