Botox has been used for years to smooth and help prevent facial wrinkles. Most commonly perceived as a cosmetic procedure for the famous or elite, this treatment has built quite a reputation for itself. In recent years, Botox has become a standard procedure for anyone, not just celebrities, especially considering the prevalence of other cosmetic procedures, like laser treatments or fillers.
The FDA approved the use of Botox after extensive testing in 2002, and it is now carefully regulated. With over 20 years of injections administered, Botox is the most widely conducted non-invasive cosmetic procedure in the world. Around 7.5 million treatments were performed last year in the U.S. alone.
Why You May Consider Botox Treatment
There are many reasons why people get Botox treatment, and not all of them are for cosmetic purposes. Botox is a neuromodulator, or neurotoxin, commonly used to treat wrinkles, frown lines, and crow feet. These harmless injections of botulinum toxin are administered directly into the underlying muscle, relaxing and gradually smoothing the appearance of the overlying skin.
Besides cosmetic solutions, Botox can improve teeth grinding, smooth “golf ball chin,” reduce underarm sweat, enhance the definition of the upper lip (lip flip), and correct a gummy smile. These injections have helped many people feel comfortable in their skin, regardless of the purpose behind it.
8 Common Botox Myths
While its popularity continues to rise, so does the misinformation surrounding this procedure. Many people may wonder if it is bad to get Botox, giving the treatment negative implications.
Fortunately, much of the misinformation associated with Botox is not true. Here are a few common Botox myths you’ve likely heard and the truth behind each one.
1. Botox Injections Are Painful
The act of a needle penetrating your facial tissue sounds intimidating, but the needles used for Botox injections are much smaller than what’s typically used for other injections, like vaccinations. Since they are so tiny, patients claim only to feel a slight pinch and experience minor bruising, if any.
2. Botox Will Freeze Your Face
The frozen look many have associated with Botox usually results from overdosage or an inexperienced injector. Neuromodulators simply relax the facial muscle it is injected into rather than completely freezing the skin. Getting Botox does not mean losing the ability to express every emotion. A proper consultation with a nurse injector is essential for seeing natural-looking results.
3. Botox Is Toxic and Has Negative Long-Term Side Effects
This neurotoxin has been proven safe and even beneficial for many health issues. Botox is obtained from a protein found in botulinum toxin, which sounds concerning due to its relation to food poisoning, but when providers use this toxin in small doses, it can treat health problems, including hyperhidrosis, cervical dystonia, chronic migraines, and more.
Botox is not a permanent solution. Therefore, there are no long-term side effects that come with it. Typically, the injected nerves recover their function three to four months after treatment.
4. Botox Fixes All Facial Imperfections
Botox isn’t used to fix or diminish facial imperfections, but it does help to relax and prevent wrinkles or other intense indentions on the face. This means Botox can reduce dynamic wrinkles (associated with muscle movements) and static lines (wrinkles that are present with no muscles activated).
Remember that it’s important to have an experienced injector to understand dosage and placement of injections to achieve the patient’s desired results.
5. Botox Is Addictive
It is impossible to become physically addicted to Botox because there are no addictive properties in botulinum toxin.
Some people could potentially become addicted to the results they receive from getting Botox, but the substance itself is not addictive.
6. Botox Is Only For People Above a Certain Age
This is one of the most common myths about Botox, and it couldn’t be further from the truth. Preventative Botox is gaining popularity now that people understand the evidence and facts behind this procedure.
Since neurotoxin is used to relax muscles and prevent them from forming wrinkles on your face, starting early as a preventative measure and saving money later makes perfect sense. So, the answer is no, Botox is not only for people above a certain age. Anyone older than 18 can have this treatment done.
7. Botox Results Are Immediate
The treatment results are not immediate but gradually appear over the next few days following your appointment. You should be able to see a visible difference within five to seven days and full results within two weeks of treatment when the muscles have had time to fully relax and soften those wrinkle lines.
8. Botox Is Only For Women
Men and women both experience aging and the insecurities that come with it. More men are opening up to cosmetic enhancements and undergoing treatments every year. Both genders can benefit from Botox, whether it’s for cosmetic or health purposes. Due to men’s stronger facial muscles, a higher dosage of Botox may need to be administered for desired results.
If you’re looking for Botox injections in Kansas City, look no further than Mirabile M.D., located in Overland Park, KS. In addition to Botox, our team offers other popular and effective neuromodulators including Dysport and Daxxify. Our knowledgeable injectors offer complimentary consultations and will recommend the best product and dosage for your desired goals, preferred treatment frequency, and budget.
A neuromodulator treatment is usually less than 30 minutes and requires no downtime afterward, though there will be post-care instructions and some restrictions 24 hours following treatment.
Want to attain a more youthful and rejuvenated appearance? Contact us today!
