What Is Preventative Botox?
Did you know Botox, Botulinum Toxin Type A, is the #1 cosmetic minimally invasive procedure performed around the world? Botox has fundamentally been used for treating wrinkles that are already formed, but in recent years it has transitioned into being used as a tool for prophylactic, or prevention, of wrinkles.
Aside form the rise in administered treatments, the age in which patient’s seek Botox treatment is becoming younger; about 20% of Botox patients are between age 30-39. For patients in their 20’s and 30’s seeking Botox treatment as a preventative measure, it is most commonly referred to as “Preventative Botox”. The American Society of Plastic Surgeons, ASPS, states there were 6.7 million Botox procedures last year alone, which is up 1% from 2014. In total, this practice has increased 759% since 2000, when it was first introduced cosmetically. Plus it’s not just women that receive Botox; according to the ASPS Botox treatments for men have increased 337% from 2000.
The Right Age To Start
The FDA has approved Botox for adults between the ages of 18 to 65. Skin ages at a different rate and is effected by common factors differing for each patient’s skin type, race, level of sun exposure, genetics, lifestyle, and facial mobility; frequent use of facial expression. Because of these determining factors the doctors at Short Hills Dermatology, recommend patients can seek treatment when they begin to notice signs of line etching when their face is in a relaxed position, which can range from the late 20’s to early 30’s for most patients.
Benefits of Preventative Botox
Patients seeking Preventative Botox treatments may reap more benefits than those using Botox as a corrective cosmetic procedure. Aside from being avidly used to smooth facial wrinkles in the forehead, between the eyebrows, and crows feet, the effects of cosmetic Botox can also improve facial symmetry; arching of the eyebrows, the resting position of a scowling mouth, and correcting a gummy smile. Also, by injecting Botox at the first sign of aging, muscles are paralyzed from contraction; thereby preventing deep set wrinkles to form. The proper amount of units of Botox administered by a licensed profession can soften facial wrinkles, while still allowing slight movement for more natural facial expressions.
Side Effects of Botox Treatments
As with any medical procedure, Botox patients should consider the risks involved with this type of injectable cosmetic procedure. Many of these side effects are temporary and disappear within 1-2 weeks. Rarely, some patients are allergic to Botox. If any of these side effects worsen speak to your physician immediately.
- Pain, swelling or bruising at the injection site
- Headache or flu-like symptoms
- Droopy eyelid or cockeyed eyebrows
- Crooked smile or drooling
- Eye dryness or excessive tearing
Botox Maintenance
Botox is typically performed in a medical office and is a relatively quick and painless procedure. A medical professional administers Botox injections under 15 minutes with no anesthetic or numbing medicine required. The effects of Botox take 2 to 4 days for effects to set it. While Botox temporarily blocks the signals from nerves to the muscles, patients can expect to repeat treatment every 3 to 4 months; the frequency depends on each individual and the rate at which the product will break down in the body.
Conclusion
Preventative Botox can aid in helping patients feel younger longer as a way to slow down the aging process. Though patients as early as their 20s use it as a precautionary measure, overall preventative care of an individual’s skin combined with healthy lifestyle can greatly lessen he need for Botox and other cosmetic injectables. To learn more about Preventative Botox, book your consultation with Short Hills Dermatology today.
