Botox

October 3, 2008 by Candice Lane, M.D.
Filed under Looking Good

Botox is the most widely used facial injectable. A lifetime of facial expressions keeps some facial muscles in a more contracted state and wears down the collagen in overlying skin creating lines. Botox is used to relax and temporarily remove hyper-dynamic facial wrinkles. These appear where there is the most facial movement of expression: above the nose between the eyes (glabella), around he lower outer eyes (crow’s feet), forehead lines, peri-oral lines around the lips, bunny lines at the bridge of the nose, and squint lines at the inner corners of the eyes. A Botox injection relaxes the underlying muscle and virtually eliminates the line. Studies have shown that with continued use, there is new formation

of collagen in the crease and elimination of the lines.

Another great use of Botox is to relax hyper-contracted muscle that give the face and neck an aged look. Marionette lines and creases at the corners of the mouth can give it a down-turned, angry look with creases at the corners reminiscent of a marionette’s mouth. Well placed injections of Botox releases the muscles pulling down on the corners of the mouth, reversing the down-turned mouth look, and giving a more youthful appearance. Remember, in youth, features are generally pointing up not down. Facial filler may also be necessary to correct marionette lines.

Neck cords appear as sinew-like, vertical tissue in the neck. They are usually most prominent with smiling, facial expression, and neck movement. They appear as cords of tissue from the base of the jaw down the neck. These are neck muscles in a hyper-contracted state. Botox can erase this unsightly, aged look without weakness or change in function, producing a smooth, youthful neck.

“Jelly rolls” under the eyes are caused by increased muscle mass in the lower lid. This can be relaxed with Boot creating a smoother look.

Dimpled chins with an orange peel look can easily be relaxed and smoothed with Botox as well.

Custom effects, such as a mini –brow lift can be achieved with Botox, and can achieve a more feminine arched brow. Well-placed Botox around the mouth can enhance lip fullness. It can also be used in a dilute form to firm the skin.

Facial imperfections and asymmetries such as “gummy” smiles that show too much teeth and gums can be corrected with Botox. In addition, it can be used to correct asymmetrical smiles, eyebrows, jaws, and facial movements.

Botox is also used to treat excessive underarm or hand sweating by injecting it into the troublesome area.

The approved indication for Botox is for frown lines. Other uses are advanced applications and should be administered by health care professionals well-trained in the use of Botox.

Botox lasts from 3-6 months, and needs to be repeated to maintain the desired effect, but the results are well worth it.