The aging process can seemingly sneak up on one overnight. The truth of the matter is that aging is taking place all the time and without adequate and routine care the signs can be really noticeable. However, there are some facets of aging that are quite natural and unavoidable even with the best intentions of skin care routines and healthy living lifestyles. For example, fine lines and wrinkles begin to form in areas where the most natural, everyday expressions take place. Frequent smiles, frowns, or laughter can lend themselves to the development of wrinkles and fine lines. Once they’re there, it can be a challenge to reverse the effects.
While many people embrace these natural lines as a part of life, others would like to take a proactive approach to achieving a more youthful appearance. Luckily there are cosmetic ways to reduce these fine lines and wrinkles with dermatological procedures. High-quality BOTOX® injections in Sterling Heights are just a phone call away, but each patient should fully understand just what’s involved in this miracle-working procedure. While the information is a lot to digest here are some of the basic “things to know” before trying a BOTOX® procedure.
What is BOTOX®?
BOTOX® is a neurotoxin derived from Clostridium botulinum. Clostridium botulinum is a natural element that can be found almost anywhere including lakes, ponds, soils, and other earthy components. It’s harmless and non-toxic when in its natural state, but can be dangerous if the cells begin to multiply. While it is actually considered a bacterium, this little known fact shouldn’t be alarming. With lots of research and testing, any negative impacts of this have been manipulated to yield some rather helpful results when it comes to a variety of medicinal uses.
While the most talked about function of this bacterium lies in the cosmetic realm (reducing fine lines and wrinkles), BOTOX® can actually be used to treat a wide range of clinical issues. It is second to none as a beneficial agent and works well for many patients. Problems like excessive sweating, crossed eyes, chronic migraines, muscle spasms, and overactive bladder are just a few of the surprising problems that can be addressed by BOTOX® injections. That said, this is predominantly used as an anti-aging cosmetic procedure and it’s one of the tried and true ways to reduce things like crow’s feet and brow furrows.
How Common is this Cosmetic Procedure?
Across the globe, over six million people receive BOTOX® treatments each year. Needless to say, the procedure has grown in popularity and is practiced worldwide. The process is surprisingly popular in communities like Grosse Pointe and Sterling Heights. Doctors of dermatology, and in some cases other licensed personnel, such as registered nurses or physicians’ assistants, may inject BOTOX if they are supervised by a doctor. Only licensed medical professionals can perform the injections. Even with the common nature of these treatments, patients are advised to look for doctors who offer experience in this area. Doctors will not recommend BOTOX® injections for every patient concerned with his or her appearance. The treatment is simply not for everyone, so it is important to speak with a knowledgeable skin care doctor.
What to Expect When Getting BOTOX® in Sterling Heights
Since receiving a BOTOX® injection will impact one’s appearance, it should be approached with serious thought. Most patients prefer to know exactly what to expect from start to finish.
BOTOX® injections are primarily administered through a fine-tipped needle and done in a sterile dermatologist’s office. Numbing the surrounding areas is not always required, but it can be requested by the patient if needed. The decision to accept numbing medication or not is usually dependent on the amount of BOTOX® being administered as well as the location of the injection sites. The bacterium is generally injected around one centimeter below the surface and it works by paralyzing the underlying muscles. To begin the procedure, the dermatologist must dilute the potent powder in saline and then inject it directly into the tissue at stake. From start to finish, the process generally takes under 15 minutes. Patients can see the final results in 14 days, and should consult with their doctor of dermatology for more information on their particular treatment.
What to Expect After the Procedure
Patients are generally free to return to daily, normal activities immediately following the procedure, as it is minimally disruptive. That said, dermatologists usually suggest that patients do not touch, rub, or interfere with the injection site for a while after the procedure takes place. Tampering (even if the space feels raw or sore) could impact the outcome of the injection. Additional aftercare instructions, if any, will be provided by the doctor.
Once the procedure is complete it is important to note that regular follow ups are required to maintain the look of the injections. While BOTOX® does an amazing job of softening those fine lines and wrinkles, it is not a permanent fix. Most dermatologists will suggest that patients plan to return every three to five months for touch up injections. BOTOX® should become a regular part of the anti-aging routine once the first injection takes place for optimal results.
The Dermatologists at Grosse Pointe Dermatology Can Assist With Any Concerns
Getting BOTOX® is a personal choice that most patients take their time in pursuing. However, finding a certified expert is always the best move. A board-certified dermatologist is well qualified in this cosmetic procedure and can ease any stress or worries related to BOTOX® injections. While BOTOX® injections aren’t the solution for everyone, they can certainly help when it comes to fighting signs of aging, like fine lines and wrinkles. Schedule a consultation today.