What Is in Botox? A Plastic Surgeon Explains How These Injections Work

What is Botox?

Botox, or botulinum toxin, is a drug derived from a toxin produced by the bacterium Clostridium botulinum. When it’s injected in small doses, Botox can relax facial muscles, temporarily smoothing wrinkles and improving appearance. Botox is also used to treat certain health conditions.

There are several varieties of wrinkle relaxers, all uniquely used to help men and women achieve smoother skin and a more youthful appearance. At Ochsner Plastic Surgery and MedSpa, I use wrinkle relaxers, like Botox Cosmetic, Dysport, Jeuveau and more, to restore patients’ youthful appearance. For more information on what wrinkle relaxers we offer and how they can help you smooth out lines and wrinkles on your skin, contact our office today.

How are wrinkle relaxer injections like Botox performed?

During your initial one-on-one consultation with me, I will review your desires with you, as well as assess the condition of your skin. Through this evaluation, I will suggest a unique treatment plan to help you reach your goals and achieve a beautiful and refreshed appearance.

Depending on the wrinkle relaxer used and your skin’s condition, treatments typically take between 30-45 minutes and can last anywhere from a few months or longer.

Botox Cosmetic is typically used to treat “dynamic wrinkles,” like laugh and smile lines, by temporarily freezing muscle contractions and giving the skin a chance to smooth out.

Other wrinkle relaxers, like Xeomin, Dysport, and more, have similarities to Botox but are designed specifically to target the lines between the brows and larger areas by relaxing facial muscle contractions.

One of the desirable things about wrinkle relaxers is that there is virtually no downtime after these treatments, making them very convenient. You might experience some redness and swelling, but this lasts a short while. Results from Botox can be seen after about a week and last three to six months.

How many units of Botox do I need?

The quantity of Botox injections given may vary depending on individual situation and the extent of your facial wrinkles and creases. I can recommend the necessary quantity of injections with a focus on your desired aesthetic outcomes and whether you want to treat crow’s feet, the forehead, or between the eyes. To keep up your rejuvenated appearance, your provider might recommend scheduling injections spaced three to four months apart.

Do Botox injections hurt?

As is the case with the majority of injection-based therapies, patients will notice a mild stinging sensation as the injection is administered. However, any discomfort only lasts a few seconds, so the majority of people tell us that this minor sensation is quite bearable. Our staff will help you stay relaxed throughout your treatment. If needed, we can use an anesthetic agent to make your injections more comfortable.

What’s the difference between fillers and Botox?

Both Botox and dermal fillers can help refresh your look, but they both function differently. Wrinkle relaxers, like Botox, temporarily immobilize the muscles in your face to help address minor lines and wrinkles. Dermal fillers, however, add fullness to recessed facial areas and fill out deep-set lines. Our doctors can share further about the benefits of dermal fillers and wrinkle relaxers during your appointment at our New Orleans-area practice.

Can you use Botox for brow lift?

A Botox brow lift is a nonsurgical cosmetic procedure that uses Botox injections to address sagging or drooping eyebrows and wrinkles in the forehead area.

How it works:

Botox, a neurotoxin, works by temporarily paralyzing the muscles that cause wrinkles and sagging. When injected into the forehead muscles, it relaxes them, which can lead to a subtle lifting effect on the eyebrows and a smoother appearance.

Benefits:

Less invasive: Compared to surgical brow lifts, Botox injections are a less invasive procedure with minimal downtime.

Subtle results: Botox brow lifts offer a subtle lift and can improve the appearance of wrinkles, resulting in a more youthful and refreshed look.

Temporary results: The effects of Botox injections are temporary, typically lasting three to four months, allowing for experimentation before committing to a more permanent option.

Considerations:

Maintenance: Regular maintenance sessions are necessary to sustain the desired results.

Suitability: Botox brow lifts are best suited for people with mild to moderate sagging or drooping of the eyebrows.

Consultation: It's important to consult with a qualified and experienced cosmetic professional to determine if a Botox brow lift is the right option for you and to discuss the potential risks and benefits.

Comparison to surgical brow lift:

Surgical brow lift: A surgical brow lift is a more permanent procedure that involves repositioning soft tissue to lift the eyebrows.

Botox brow lift: A Botox brow lift is a temporary, nonsurgical procedure that relaxes muscles to lift the eyebrows.

Choosing the right option: The choice between a surgical brow lift and a Botox brow lift depends on individual needs, goals, and the severity of the sagging or drooping.

Dr. Adam Hauch is a double board-certified plastic surgeon specializing in cosmetic and reconstructive procedures. With a commitment to patient safety and satisfaction, Dr. Hauch provides personalized care to help patients achieve their desired aesthetic results.