Fine lines and wrinkles are typically the first signs of aging. And while they’re cute on pugs, most people don’t want them. Wrinkle relaxers are the trusted, effective way to treat and prevent wrinkles in the face and neck. Wrinkles can be softened or even eliminated with a few simple injections. This means smooth skin and a youthful appearance!
BOOK NOWREQUEST APPOINTMENTThere are two trusted wrinkle relaxers: Botox and Dysport, and we offer both at Esthetics Center. Wrinkle relaxers are neuromodulators—an injectable prescription medication that blocks signals from the nerves to the muscle. They temporarily relax the muscle in the treatment area, resulting in noticeably smoother skin with fewer fine lines and wrinkles. Relaxing the muscles also prevents dynamic wrinkles from forming in the treatment area.
Botox and Dysport work in similar ways. Both are neuromodulators that block nerve signals from contracting muscles. By injecting small doses into areas of the face and neck, we can relax wrinkles to rejuvenate your appearance. Doing so also means that wrinkles don’t set in and form deep lines.
The most common area wrinkle relaxers are used is the upper face to treat frown lines, forehead lines, and crow’s feet. But wrinkle relaxers can achieve a various results when injected into other areas of the face and neck. They can be used on the lower face to smooth lip lines and necklines, treat a gummy smile, and achieve a lip flip. Wrinkle relaxers can also be injected into the hairline to achieve a brow lift, the jaw to treat temporomandibular jaw (TMJ) dysfunction, the temples to alleviate migraines, and finally, in the underarms to minimize excessive sweating.
Any appointment at Esthetics Center begins with a thorough discussion of your goals and medical history with a certified cosmetic nurse injector or physician assistant. We always strive to deliver the most comfortable experience for our patients, and we want to achieve the optimum results. Like many other injectable cosmetic treatments, wrinkle relaxers are quick, non-surgical procedures that do not require anesthesia. We begin treatment by thoroughly cleaning the injection sites. Most treatments take just 30 minutes. Then, patients return to their normal activities with only a few easy instructions for aftercare and a recommendation for scheduling their next appointment.
Wrinkle relaxers are great for just about anyone concerned with any of the following:
One of the very few differences between Botox and Dysport is the time it takes for the products to kick in. Dysport generally sets in quicker, in as little as four to 14 days. Botox can take anywhere between 7 to 14 days to set in. With both products, patience is essential; it can take up to 14 days to see the full results.
How long results last varies. Generally, they last between three to four months, although some people respond better to a particular wrinkle relaxer. Some patients report better results with one of the products. It is important to keep in mind that every body responds differently to wrinkle relaxers and metabolizes them at different rates. Things like an individual’s metabolism and exercise routine can affect how quickly wrinkle relaxers wear off.
We will discuss your treatment plan, including a recommended follow-up schedule, when you meet with one of our skilled nurses at your first appointment. Typically, your nurse will determine the regularity with which you should receive treatment based on your results, as results vary from patient to patient.
We often see people discuss botox and dermal fillers interchangeably, a common misconception. Although they are both injectables and complementary treatments, they are very different. Most often, when people say “overdone,” they are referring to poorly injected dermal filler. What's important to keep in mind is that wrinkle relaxers are prescription medications; the best way to guarantee a great result is through proper care. Our experienced and talented medical professionals will never take you past the appropriate dosage or push you further than your comfort level.
Yes, wrinkle relaxers are safe! Both Botox and Dysport are FDA-cleared products. However, as with any medical or cosmetic procedure, the most important thing you can do is make sure you see a licensed and trained professional. This ensures that you are getting high-quality products and that they are injected correctly.
Wrinkle relaxers may not be right for you if you have had an allergic reaction to botulinum toxin products such as Botox, Myobloc, Dysport, or Xeomin, or if you have a skin infection at the desired injection site. At every appointment, we will discuss your medical history and any concerns you may have.
Treatment is fast and non-invasive; most patients are not bothered by the procedure. We can assure you that our nurses are skilled in delivering the product quickly and efficiently. We use a tiny needle and offer additional measures to ensure your comfort, like icing the injection area if necessary.
The recovery period for wrinkle relaxers varies from patient to patient. Generally, most patients return to their daily activities with no real recovery period at all. Some patients bruise or develop mosquito bite-like bumps at the injection sites, which are normal. While rare, the side effects may include discomfort or pain at the injection site, headache, or eye problems.
The most important thing to remember when undergoing any cosmetic or medical procedure is to choose a skilled, licensed provider. This will ensure that you receive the highest quality product, delivered in the safest possible way.
Dysport is not a "knock-off" of Botox—it’s a similar but different medication. It has 1/6 of the molecular weight and will offer different results than BOTOX does. For example, Dysport's lower molecular weight allows it to spread faster throughout a treatment area, making it great for the forehead, while BOTOX can be more suitable for smaller wrinkles.
Most people get the same results from one wrinkle relaxer as they do the other, but some people have a preference. You can always begin with one product and try the other at your next appointment. Also, keep in mind that your injector can help you determine which wrinkle relaxer is right for you and your goals.
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Dr. Rice received his medical degree from Loma Linda University in Southern California where he also completed an internship in general surgery and specialty surgical training in Otolaryngology—head and neck surgery. Dr. Rice went on to complete advanced training in Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery at the Institute of Facial Plastic Surgery. He is double board-certified…
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