Botox/Dysport

Cosmetic Muscle Relaxation of Frown Lines, Forehead, Crows Feet and other areas

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What is Cosmetic Muscle Relaxation?

Cosmetic muscle relaxation is a ​procedure used to improve the appearance of frown lines, crow's feet and forehead lines. Dynamic wrinkles occur when we smile, laugh, or frown and the  muscles underlying the skin contract. In cosmetic relaxation Botox, Dysport or other neuromodulators are injected into the muscles that cause the wrinkles. Neuromodulators work by relaxing the facial muscles and by doing so, the overlying skin smooths and lines soften.

How is Cosmetic Muscle Relaxation Performed?

Cosmetic muscle relaxation is a safe and simple procedure. A small amount of diluted neuromodulator is injected with a very fine needle into several locations in the muscles of the face. The needle is tiny and only a small amount of product is injected into each area so there is little to no pain associated with the procedure. You will be able to drive and engage in your normal daily activities immediately after your injections. A small number of people will have some bruising on the skin at the injection sites, which will fade over several days. Foundation may be applied if this occurs. Otherwise, there will be no visible sign of your treatment.

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What are the contradictions to Botox or Dysport?

1. Persons allergic to human albumin or Botulinum toxin.

2. Pregnant or lactating women.

3. Those with neurological disorders such as myasthenia gravis.

4. Active infection at the injection site.

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Are there any side effects?

Mild, temporary bruising is the most common. Drooping of the upper eyelid may occur in about 2% of people who have frown lines injected. About 5% of people who have their foreheads injected immediately above their eyebrows may notice this effect also. A much smaller number of people will notice the slight asymmetry of the lower face after injection of crow's feet muscles. These effects are usually not noticed by others and typically recover after 3-5 weeks. To minimize the possibility of these effects, please be sure to follow the post-treatment instructions.

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What kind of results may I expect?

If dynamic wrinkles are making you look older and more "serious", cosmetic relaxation may help smooth these lines and give you a more youthful and relaxed appearance. This treatment will not remove lines that are there at rest, nor does it improve loose or sagging skin. Results are typically seen within 2 to 10 days of treatment.  Occasionally, there is a muscle that does not respond, and a "touch-up" may be required at 2 weeks. Some persons may not respond to the Botox or Dysport but this is rare.

How long does the result last?

Most people require repeat injections every 3-4 months to maintain the effect.

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What instructions should I follow after treatment?

Do not rub the injection site as this may spread the product to nearby muscles. Do not lie down for at least 4 hours for the same reason. If you see no improvement after 2 weeks, please call us for a touch-up as some people may require higher doses to obtain the effect desired or a different product. Occasionally, someone may not respond to one of the neuromodulators but will have better results from a different product.

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How much will it cost? The current cost is $14 per unit. Treatments typically range from 20 to 60 units making 

the typical cost per treatment area approximately $280.00. For example, crow's feet would be one treatment area and forehead/frown line is a second treatment area.