Any time people get to talking about something everyone knows a little bit about, myths and rumors are inevitable. When it comes to a super-popular treatment like Botox, there’s bound to be some misinformation out there. Botox, which is the most popular cosmetic procedure in the United States, has been in use for more than thirty years, and has been approved for cosmetic use since 2002. It’s no surprise that there are more than a few myths surrounding this popular treatment. If you’re thinking of joining the millions of men and women who benefit from Botox each year, here are some of the biggest Botox myths—busted.
Myth: Botox will freeze your face
This myth is so persistent because of the way Botox eases wrinkles. “Dynamic” wrinkles, which are mostly found around the eyes and forehead, form after years of facial expressions—smiling, frowning, laughing, etc. Botox smooths away these dynamic wrinkles by relaxing the facial muscles involved and limiting their movement.
Although the injections limit the movements of some muscles, others maintain a full range of motion. When the treatment is performed by a plastic surgeon or highly trained specialist, your face will not look “frozen” and you will still be able to express yourself normally.
Myth: Botox isn’t safe because it’s a form of botulinum toxin
Botox has a long track record of safety, and was originally created to help limit eye spasms. It is derived from the bacteria that causes botulism, but it is an inactive and purified form of the botulinum toxin protein that does not cause patients to develop botulism. Although there are minor risks to any treatment, Botox is very safe in the hands of an experienced professional. Millions of people undergo cosmetic Botox treatments every year with no ill effects.
Myth: Botox works on all wrinkles
There are excellent treatments available for just about every wrinkle the human body can create, but Botox only works on dynamic wrinkles. This is because the formula treats the underlying musculature, it does not actively fill in wrinkles.
Static wrinkles, which are typically caused by facial volume loss, are best addressed with other injectables: soft tissue fillers, usually formulated with hyaluronic acid. Many people choose to have both treatments at once, in order to achieve a more youthful appearance throughout the face.
Myth: Botox is just for anti-aging
Though it is now best-known and popular as a wrinkle treatment, Botox’s origins are medical. Today, doctors still use it to control a wide range of health problems. People with eye spasms, excessive sweating in the palms or underarms, chronic migraines, and even overactive bladder can benefit from the injections. Botox is a safe and convenient treatment for these and other medical problems.
Myth: Botox is easy to inject and I can get it at a spa cheaply
As widely available as it is, it is important for patients to choose an experienced, trained provider to administer Botox. Side effects and complications are rare if the injector knows exactly how to distribute the product, but they can become more likely in inexperienced hands. Going to a plastic surgeon’s office helps to ensure your safety. Plus, you will get better results when an expert performs the procedure.
Myth: Botox works immediately
Unlike dermal fillers, Botox’s effects take a few days to kick in. Since the injectable needs to relax the muscles, rather than simply filling in wrinkles, Botox normally takes about 3-5 days to start working. Full results emerge in 7-12 days on average. After this, the results will last for about 3-4 months before additional treatment is needed to maintain results.
Botox: Safe and Effective
Now that we’ve busted these Botox myths, it’s probably obvious why so many people opt for Botox treatment each year. Botox is a great “gateway” cosmetic treatment because it’s safe and effective and has stood the test of time. Now that the stigma surrounding cosmetic procedures is fading away, more women and a growing number of men are choosing Botox treatments. Many people start with a Botox treatment and are so happy with the results that they decide to move forward with other anti-aging treatments. Botox is a great choice in combination with other treatments or medical-grade skincare products.
Botox Treatments at Hillelson-Whipple Clinic
If you’re interested in learning more about Botox with the experts at Hillelson-Whipple Clinic in Richmond, VA, call 804.290.0060 to schedule a consultation with one of our Botox specialists.