The image that looks back at you in the mirror may not be as youthful as you wish it to be. It’s natural for skin to sag and develop fine lines and wrinkles as you age. Following a healthy lifestyle and taking good care of your skin helps, but no one can prevent the signs of aging on their own.
However, Botox can help you in the fight against looking older. Botox injections are non-surgical treatments that smooth those fine lines and restore a more youthful look. At Hector L. Di Carlo, M.D., P.A., in Fort Lauderdale, FL, you can find Botox treatment as well as other non-surgical cosmetic services.
What Is Botox?
The FDA first approved Botox for cosmetic use in 2002. By now, most people have heard about it, but many are still not certain exactly what Botox is or how it works. With an estimated 6 million treatments a year, it’s safe to say Botox is one of the most popular non-surgical cosmetic treatments on the planet.
Botox is a brand name for a botulinum toxin derived from the bacterium Clostridium botulinum. It is a neuromodulator, which means that it temporarily impairs the ability of nerves to signal targeted muscles to contract. Neuromodulation forces the muscle to relax. As muscles relax, the appearance of facial lines decreases.
The overall effect of a Botox treatment is a smoother, more relaxed face with fewer fine lines, wrinkles, or crinkles. Botox is used to treat frown lines between the eyes, forehead furrows, and crow’s feet that radiate from the corners of the eyes.
The Benefits of Botox Injections
Botulinum toxin treatment (Botox) has become popular because it is straightforward and effective when administered by a trained cosmetic professional. There are several other benefits to Botox you may not have realized.
Non-Surgical and Convenient
Botox does not require anesthesia or incisions. It is a minimally invasive procedure with no long recovery times. In addition, treatment sessions are quick. It takes only a few minutes to complete a session, and you can return to your daily activities immediately after the appointment.
Targeted, Fast Results
Because they are administered with a fine needle, Botox injections can precisely target specific muscles for the most impactful results. Precision targeting also helps ensure only areas of concern are treated.
How long does Botox take to work? Many people see a change in their appearance within the first three to five days after the injections. The full effect may take up to two weeks to be noticed. Keep in mind that Botox results may vary.
Long-Lasting and Flexible
There is no single answer to the question, “How long does Botox last?” Each person is different. Your skin type, metabolism, lifestyle, and targeted treatment area all affect how long the results last. On average, clients can expect to enjoy the benefits of Botox for three to six months or more.
Once the body metabolizes the proteins in Botox, the effects begin to wear off, and muscle activity returns to normal. This is good news for people who want to try a cosmetic procedure without making a drastic permanent change.
If you like the effects of botulinum toxin treatment, occasional touch-ups will maintain your look, and repeated treatments may cause the neuromodulating effects to last for longer periods.
Do Botox Results Look Natural?
What is Botox? The bacterium in these injections is a naturally occurring substance, and Botox injections look natural when administered by an expert. Botox treatment can leave you looking younger and more refreshed. It diminishes the look of even severe wrinkles and can make fine lines fade away.
By preventing targeted muscles around your eyes and mouth from contracting, neuromodulation keeps skin smoother. You will still look like yourself but refreshed.
What to Expect During a Botox Procedure
The first step in any cosmetic procedure is a consultation. Once we confirm that you are a good candidate for our cosmetic services and that Botox is the right choice for you, we will develop your personalized treatment plan.
During your consultation, we take the time to answer all of your questions, such as “How long does Botox last?” and “How long does Botox take to work?” We want to make sure every patient feels confident about their decision to receive cosmetic services.
When you arrive for your appointment, the treatment area will be cleaned and prepared. Numbing methods such as ice or topical anesthesia may be applied, according to your preferences.
Each small injection places a tiny amount of botulinum toxin into the muscle. How many injections you receive depends on your goals and the areas being treated. Most appointments are completed within 30 minutes or less.
We will provide you with all of the aftercare information you need. No post-treatment medications or special recovery services are needed. You can return to your normal daily activities after leaving the medspa. However, we recommend that patients avoid strenuous exercise, alcohol, and anti-inflammatory medications for at least 24 hours after treatment.
Is Botox Right for You?
If you are concerned about lines developing around your eyes or mouth but aren’t ready for cosmetic surgery, Botox injections are a convenient, quick, and affordable solution. Botox is FDA-approved for cosmetic use and requires little to no downtime. Results may be noticeable within 72 hours or less and may last up to six months or more.
Is Botox right for you? Contact Hector L. Di Carlo, M.D., P.A., in Fort Lauderdale, FL, today to book your Botox consultation.
