Botox is the most common non-surgical
cosmetic procedure performed in the United States. In 2017, over 7.2 million
people had a cosmetic Botox injection. Despite its popularity, misconceptions
and misunderstanding still persist. Questions around what Botox does, who
should inject it and who are the best candidates for use are often
misunderstood.
Myth #1: Botox and dermal fillers are the same
Nerves signal muscles to
contract. Botox is a purified protein that blocks the nerve signal, reducing
muscle contraction and relaxing muscles of facial expression that cause
wrinkles. The result is diminished unwanted facial wrinkles.
Dermal fillers add volume to
facial tissues giving a more youthful and plump appearance. If you are looking
for fuller lips, fuller cheeks or for softer smile lines, a dermal filler (fat,
collagen, hyaluronic acid) would be the procedure of choice.
Myth #2: Botox injections are always obvious
The quality of your
results depends on the skill of your doctor. Great Botox is
customized to your individual face, taking into account factors such
as which facial muscles you use the most, your facial muscle balance from side
to side (we all have asymmetries), your job, your social life and the look you desire.
With 43 facial muscles, rejuvenating your look while preserving natural facial
expressions, requires experience and an understanding of anatomy. If injected
by an inexperienced provider it may result in problems like asymmetry, droopy
eyelids or brows.
Botox injection should be performed
by a plastic surgeon, cosmetic dermatologist or a nurse practitioner or physician
assistant who are part of a practice where they are directly supervised by a
plastic surgeon or cosmetic dermatologist.
In some states, nurses, nurse
practitioners or physician assistants can perform Botox injections. In other
states, only doctors can inject Botox. Before you receive a Botox injection,
ask your provider if s/he has adequate training and supervision to inject
Botox. After all, anyone with a medical license can call themselves a cosmetic
surgeon.
Myth #3: Botox is addictive
It's not possible to become
physically addicted to Botox. Botox will improve your appearance and give you a
boost in self-confidence. For these reasons, you may want to continue receiving
Botox injections.
Myth #4: Botox is toxic
Botox is a purified protein
derived from bacteria. In the right hands, and in the proper dose, Botox is
very safe for injection. There are over 20 medical conditions treated with
Botox. The FDA approves drugs and/or medical devices after they have undergone
rigorous testing to prove their safety and efficacy. There are three Food and Drug
Administration approved indications for cosmetic Botox. These are the
injections of crow's feet, frown lines and transverse forehead lines.
All prescribed medications have potential side effects.
Potential side effects of a cosmetic Botox injection may include: bruising,
pain at injection sites, headache and redness, and in rare circumstances,
temporary facial weakness or drooping. Botox is safest in the hands of a
qualified doctor and at the manufacturer recommended doses.
Myth #5: Botox is something only women get
Over 500,000 men had Botox or dermal
filler injections in 2013. The American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery
(ASAPS) reported a 43 percent increase in the number of men undergoing cosmetic
surgery in recent years.