BOTOX® Cosmetic

Lines formed when you make certain facial expressions, called dynamic wrinkles, gradually become etched into your skin as a natural part of aging. However, if you feel that these “expression lines” don’t reflect your youthful spirit, BOTOX is an effective and popular option for erasing them.

People from Springfield, Longmeadow, Northampton, and surrounding areas in Massachusetts, come to New England Dermatology & Laser Center can achieve a more youthful appearance with our range of medical spa services, including BOTOX.

What Is BOTOX?

BOTOX is made from botulinum toxin type A and belongs to a class of injectables called neuromodulators. These products temporarily disable facial muscles that cause expression lines. They are very safe and have been used in clinical settings for decades.

What Areas Can You Improve With BOTOX?

BOTOX is commonly used to correct:

• Vertical frown lines between the eyebrows
• Horizontal forehead furrows
• Crow’s feet at the outer corners of the eyes
• Certain lines around the lips
• Vertical neck bands

It can also be used for other applications beyond those listed above.

Does BOTOX Have Clinical Uses?

BOTOX has been used extensively for the relief of a variety of uncomfortable conditions. It can help with non-cosmetic concerns such as overactive sweat glands (hyperhidrosis), chronic migraines, and teeth grinding.

Hyperhidrosis Treatment (Excessive Sweating)

BOTOX alleviates excessive sweating by “turning off” the sweat glands. As a neuromodulator, BOTOX blocks the nerve signals that prompt the body to over-produce sweat. The result is dryer underarms, hands, and/or feet, with relief lasting 4 to 6 months before additional treatments are needed.

Migraine Treatment

Chronic migraine sufferers can ease their symptoms with BOTOX injections. BOTOX relaxes the muscles of the neck, head, and face and interrupts the pain signals that can trigger migraines. The migraine relief tends to last around 3 months before further injections are necessary.

Teeth Grinding Relief

BOTOX can be used cosmetically in the masseter (chewing) muscles to create a slimmer facial shape. However, BOTOX treatments in this area can also alleviate TMJ symptoms, including clenching and grinding your teeth. As with other BOTOX injections, the results typically last 3 to 4 months before you need additional injections.

What To Expect During Your Treatment

Our specialist will ask you to make a few facial expressions and then mark the precise locations for the injections. The needle used for BOTOX is very fine, and the injections take mere seconds. The treatment typically takes around 15 minutes, and minimal downtime is needed. You might see redness and swelling at the injection sites, but these symptoms should subside in a day or two.  

For the best results from your BOTOX treatment, follow your injector’s aftercare instructions.

How Long Will Your Results Last?

Typically, BOTOX results last 3 to 4 months, at which point you may want another treatment to maintain your results. Evidence indicates that, with regularly scheduled BOTOX injections, the results will gradually last longer.

Can You Combine BOTOX With Other Cosmetic Procedures?

It is common to combine BOTOX injections with other med spa procedures to achieve a more comprehensive facial rejuvenation. One of the most popular pairings is BOTOX with dermal fillers. BOTOX can temporarily relax muscles that cause facial wrinkles, and fillers restore volume loss in areas such as the lips, cheeks, and nasolabial folds. To enhance your skin’s radiance and overall health, DiamondGlow® can also be paired with BOTOX.

BOTOX FAQ

How can I make BOTOX last longer?

Although how quickly your body metabolizes BOTOX will vary, patients can extend the longevity of their results by avoiding excessive sun exposure, using high-quality skincare products, and sleeping on their backs. Committing to a regular maintenance schedule can ensure your skin stays smooth and relaxed.

What’s the right age to start BOTOX injections?

There is no “right” age to start BOTOX as everyone ages at their own pace. Middle-aged and older patients may choose to start BOTOX to treat visible wrinkles, while younger patients in their 20s and 30s may choose to get BOTOX as a preventative, “pre-juvenation” treatment to slow the development of wrinkles.

Is BOTOX better than dermal fillers like JUVEDERM®?

BOTOX and dermal fillers target different types of wrinkles, so it depends on what your goals are. The two injectables are commonly combined as part of a “liquid facelift” for full facial rejuvenation.

Will the treatment hurt?

BOTOX is a quick, well-tolerated treatment that uses very fine needles for the injections. We can apply ice or a numbing cream to increase your comfort.

What happens if I stop getting BOTOX?

If you choose to stop getting BOTOX treatments, your muscles will gradually regain their full mobility, and wrinkles may return to their pre-treatment appearance over time. However, your skin will still be smoother than if you had never received treatments.