Breaking myths on Botox and Fillers: Here is all that you need to know
During young age, our skin springs back to its initial position after a facial expression, but as we get older these wrinkles become static leading to formation of permanent lines even when the skin is at rest. This is due to loss or reduction of collagen and elastin from the skin. Environmental factors such as too much or unprotected sun exposure (by not using sunscreens), smoking, stress etc also play a major role in adding to wrinkles.
Botox and Fillers are two very popular treatments for anti ageing, shaping, contouring and redefining the face structure amongst men and women from 25 to 60 years of age. Botulinum toxin treatment popularly known as BOTOX is the treatment of choice for fine lines and wrinkles.
Despite their popularity, these services (botox and fillers) have always been shrouded by a cloud of doubts. There is widespread apprehension particularly amongst first time users and the horror stories on internet are compounding the fears! Indeed there are a lot of myths and misconceptions surrounding these treatments, especially in the Northeast of India, where the number of people going for Botox and fillers is comparatively lesser compared to a metropolitan city. Moreover in metropolitan cities the average client atleast knows what to expect.
This article is intended to clear all your doubts and arm you with the right information.
BOTOX: Wrinkles on the face form when we use our muscles to make facial expressions. The wrinkles formed during these expressions are called dynamic wrinkles such as the lines forming on the corner of the eyes when we smile or on our forehead when we frown or raise our eyebrows. During young age, our skin springs back to its initial position after a facial expression, but as we get older these wrinkles become static leading to formation of permanent lines even when the skin is at rest. This is due to loss or reduction of collagen and elastin from the skin. Environmental factors such as too much or unprotected sun exposure (by not using sunscreens), smoking, stress etc also play a major role in adding to wrinkles.
So what is BOTOX and how does it work?
Botulinum Toxin treatment (BOTOX) is a natural, purified protein that relaxes the muscles that cause wrinkles. In other words, it prevents undesirable facial expressions from leading to wrinkles. Botox helps to even out fine lines and prevents formation of new ones .
Is there a change in my appearance or expressions after Botox?
Botox, if done in proper dosage and by a trained physician, only helps to relax the muscles of facial expression (causing dynamic wrinkles). Unwanted facial expressions can make us look tired or angry and by smoothening the fine lines and wrinkles, BOTOX prevents this from happening. However, contrary to mass perception, it does not give a frozen or unnatural look to the face and also does not make it look like you have just got some work done. You only look refreshed and young.
How long does one treatment last?
The effect of one treatment of Botox lasts for around 4 to 6 months depending on the lifestyle of the person. Effects tend to last longer with subsequent treatments.
If I discontinue taking Botox will I get more wrinkles?
Botox helps in reducing the wrinkles and fine lines of the face. On discontinuing your skin will go back to its original state which was before the treatment and not get any worse than that.
How much time does it take for the results to show?
One can notice softening of frown lines and other aspects within 3 days. The full results from the treatment take around 7 to 10 days to show.
Can any other procedures be combined with Botox treatment?
Yes Botox treatment can be combined with a variety of other anti-ageing treatments such a fillers, PRP (vampire facial), chemical peeling, and medifacial depending on your requirement and as suggested by your aesthetic physician.
Is it very expensive?
The procedure of Botox is actually not very expensive, if you compare it with the amount you spend on facials and massages on a monthly basis. Once done it remains for at least 4-6 months. However, the overall cost of treatment depends on the area to be treated and the number of units required for it, which can only be decided by your doctor after proper evaluation.
Fillers: Fillers are essentially natural hyaluronic acid injectable gels that are used to fill up and restore loose, dry, saggy skin which appears as we age.
Hyaluronic acid helps to restore the natural youthfulness of the face by lending volume to cheek bones, correcting sunken under eyes, contouring the jawline and chin, correcting sagging cheeks and nasolabial folds etc. It also helps in hydrating the skin and gives it a natural glow. The results are almost immediate.
How long do the results from fillers last?
The results of Fillers last from 1-2 years depending on the type of filler used, amount injected and lifestyle of the person getting injected (smoking, exposure to UV Rays etc shortens the effects).
How long does the procedure take and how soon can I return to work?
The procedure takes about 30-45minutes depending on the area and extent of injecting. You can resume work or return to your social life immediately after the procedure with no downtime. However, minimal bruising and some redness after the procedure can be expected. This can easily be concealed using a concealer. If needed after care medications are given to reduce bruising, if any.
How long does it take to show results?
The results of fillers show immediately on the procedure table. However more improvements can be seen within 2 weeks after the procedure.
Therefore, to summarise, my advice would be to choose your doctor wisely when you go for these procedures. Doing this shall nullify complications. The experience and expertise of the doctor really matters!
Dr. Sharadi Shreemoyee, Aesthetic Physician, Rejuve Aesthetics, Guwahati
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