5 Misconceptions About Botox Explained
In 2020, Botox was the most common non-invasive cosmetic procedure, according to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons — 4.4 million procedures were done. It’s a popular procedure for a reason — it reduces signs of aging and can increase confidence.
Botox is often used on wrinkles and fine lines that are caused by muscle movement. Common target areas for Botox are crow’s feet, forehead wrinkles, marionette lines, and between the eyebrows.
Many people have heard of Botox — it’s been around for decades and has increased in popularity recently — but fewer people understand the ins and outs of the procedure. Here’s the truth about Botox.
MISCONCEPTION #1: BOTOX AND FILLER ARE THE SAME
While Botox and filler can each help soften wrinkles and are each delivered through injections, they aren’t the same.
Botox is a neuromodulator that blocks nerve signals to the targeted muscles. This causes muscles to be temporarily frozen around wrinkles, and therefore lessens the appearance of those wrinkles.
Filler plays a different role. It does exactly what you may guess — it fills in. Filler is used to contour, plump, and lift areas like lips and cheeks.
MISCONCEPTION #2: BOTOX IS PERMANENT
Botox does not permanently erase the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. When Botox is injected into targeted muscles, it only temporarily weakens and relaxes them, according to the American Academy of Dermatology.
Botox gradually wears off and typically lasts three to four months. How long Botox lasts depends on the patient and how many times they’ve gotten Botox before. As the movement in muscles comes back over time, wrinkles and fine lines will slowly reappear.
MISCONCEPTION #3: BOTOX LEAVES YOU EXPRESSIONLESS
Botox leaving people expressionless is a common myth. A frozen, expressionless face from Botox is not actually a reality when the injection is done properly. At Fort Wayne Plastic Surgery & Aesthetics, our Aesthetic Nurse Specialist Kim Hill, RN and Certified Family Nurse Practitioner, Audrey Jones have a combined experience of over 20 years experience with Botox injections.
When Botox only interacts with the targeted muscles as intended, a natural, more youthful look is achieved.
MISCONCEPTION #4: GETTING BOTOX IS PAINFUL
Getting Botox is not painful and has minimal downtime. Without a numbing cream or numbing agent, being injected may feel like a pinch. While any injection can come with some pain, the needle used is small and pain is minimal.
MISCONCEPTION #5: I’M TOO YOUNG FOR BOTOX
Botox is approved for people 18 years old and older. If you have wrinkles and droopiness that bother you or are interested in learning about preventative measures to take to protect your skin, talk to us about your concerns.
WONDERING IF BOTOX IS RIGHT FOR YOU?
If you’re wondering if Botox is right for you, schedule an appointment to get a consultation with us at Fort Wayne Plastic Surgery & Aesthetics. We’re happy to talk with you about your goals and answer any questions you may have.