Botox and Fillers

What is Botox?

Botox or neurotoxin or “Tox” is a toxin produced naturally by a bacteria called Clostridium botulinum that is diluted and used to paralyze targeted muscles of our face and body. With an experienced dermatologist injector, botox is an exceptional procedure that can reduce wrinkles and even contour areas of the body from the calves to shoulders and even be used to treat migraines across the face.

Why Get Botox at True Dermatology?

At True Dermatology, you will find that we uphold the highest standard of safety when it comes down to treating your face. Keep in mind that there are no standard or textbook ways of botox injections that will be one size fits all. The art and science, and more importantly, safety of botox cannot be simply taught through a weekend conference that "certifies providers". Please ask the doctor who you are entrusting the outcome of your face about his or her experience, qualification, and understanding of facial anatomy. Improper botox injections lead to detrimental results that you can google. Our initial consultation will start with discussing your personal expectations and preferences is extremely important to ensure the desired outcomes are achieved in the safest fashion.

How Long Will My Botox Last?

Typically results last anywhere from 3-6 months. You can resume day to day activities within hours, just don’t rub your face during the first 4 hours. For expert injectors with a deep surgical understanding of not only facial and neck anatomy but also full body anatomy, botox may be used to do much more than to just reduce wrinkles. It can be used to treat migraines, shape the shoulders, and even slim calves.

Botox Different for Males versus Females?

Yes. Men and women have different muscle strengths and standards of beauty. The same aesthetically pleasing brow arch is not preferred by most men but may be a desired feature for some women. Even the standards of beauty are completely different among women of Asian versus Western backgrounds.  

What is the Best Type of Botox?​

You may have heard about different brands of botulinum toxins in addition to the original BOTOX® including Xeomin ®, Jeveau ®, and Dysport ® and are wondering which one is the best? All of them are relatively comparable as they have the same underlying "botulinum A". BOTOX®, Xeomin ®, and Jeveau ® are administered using the same amount of "units" but have a slight variation in action. Research has shown that compared to botox, Xeomin ® is slightly stronger with reported longer-lasting effects compared to botox without additional protein that may serve as extra targets for your body to become resistant against. At your consultation, we will discuss what is the best neurotoxin for you.

What Can I Treat with Botox?

Wrinkle prevention - why wait? Let's prevent the wrinkle from forming in the first place

1. Treat crow's feet
2. Smooth out deep horizontal forehead and Glabellar lines
3. Reduce neck lines
4. Non-surgical brow lift: subtly lift the brow for a more youthful appearance
5. Treat “gummy smile”
6. Create fuller lips without fillers by relaxing upper lip muscles “lip flip”
7. Treat teeth grinding “bruxism” and jaw pain, this may also alleviate and reduce headaches
8. Treat excessive sweating of the palms and soles
9. Treat tension headaches, neck tightness, and overall reduce facial tension for a more “relaxed look”
10. Increase the size of the eyes (Asian Aesthetics)
11. Facial contouring reducing low face prominence with masseter injections (Asian Aesthetics)

Unlocking the Versatile Potential of Neurotoxins/Botox in Cosmetic and Medical Treatments

Neurotoxins, popularly known by the brand name Botox, have long been a cornerstone in the realm of cosmetic dermatology, renowned primarily for their efficacy in reducing facial wrinkles. However, the scope of Botox extends far beyond facial rejuvenation, encompassing a variety of cosmetic and medical applications throughout the body. This versatility makes neurotoxins a fascinating and multifaceted tool in both aesthetic and therapeutic contexts.

Botox for Facial Wrinkles: The Classic Use

Botox's primary use in cosmetic dermatology is to reduce the appearance of facial wrinkles, particularly dynamic wrinkles that result from repetitive muscle movements. By temporarily relaxing the muscles, Botox smoothens out lines and creases, resulting in a more youthful and refreshed appearance. Common treatment areas include the forehead, crow's feet around the eyes, and frown lines between the eyebrows. The procedure is quick, typically taking only a few minutes, and requires no downtime, making it a convenient option for those seeking immediate aesthetic improvements with minimal interruption to their daily routine.

Expanding the Aesthetic Benefits: Shoulder Slimming and Calf Reduction

The aesthetic applications of Botox have expanded to include body contouring techniques such as shoulder slimming and calf reduction. In shoulder slimming, Botox is injected into the trapezius muscles, the large muscles that extend from the neck to the shoulders. By relaxing these muscles, Botox can create a more refined and feminine shoulder line, often referred to as "Barbie shoulders." This procedure has gained popularity among those seeking a less invasive alternative to surgical methods for altering body contours.

Similarly, Botox can be used for calf reduction, offering a solution for those who desire slimmer calves without undergoing surgery. The injections are strategically placed into the calf muscles, leading to a reduction in muscle size and a more slender leg profile. These treatments are particularly popular in cultures where smaller calves are considered a beauty standard.

Botox as a Therapeutic Agent: Treating Migraine Headaches

Beyond its cosmetic uses, Botox has emerged as a significant player in the treatment of chronic medical conditions, notably migraine headaches. Chronic migraines, defined as headaches occurring on 15 or more days per month, can be debilitating. Botox works by blocking the release of certain chemicals involved in the transmission of pain, thus reducing the frequency and intensity of migraine attacks. Treatment involves multiple injections around the head and neck, which can provide relief for up to three months. This application of Botox has been a game-changer for many migraine sufferers, offering a respite from the relentless pain and improving their quality of life.

Safety and Professional Administration: Key Considerations

While the use of Botox for both cosmetic and therapeutic purposes is generally safe, it is imperative to have these treatments administered by a qualified and experienced healthcare professional. Proper technique and knowledge of anatomy are crucial to ensure not only the efficacy of the treatment but also to minimize risks and potential side effects. A detailed consultation before any treatment is essential to discuss goals, expectations, potential risks, and to tailor the treatment plan to the individual's needs.

Conclusion: The Diverse World of Neurotoxin/Botox Treatments

In conclusion, the use of neurotoxins like Botox has transcended its origins as a mere wrinkle reducer, showcasing its versatility across a spectrum of cosmetic and medical applications. From creating smoother, more youthful faces to crafting desired body contours and providing relief from chronic migraines, Botox stands as a testament to the ever-evolving world of medical aesthetics and therapeutic treatments. Its ability to offer significant improvements in both appearance and quality of life continues to make it a highly sought-after treatment in clinics worldwide. As research progresses, we can only expect to see further innovative uses for this remarkable neurotoxin.

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What are Fillers?

Fillers are popular cosmetic injectables that can be used to enhance desirable facial features and restore youth instantly. Fillers can be skillfully injected superficially to reduce fine lines, wrinkles and scars. Alternatively, deeper filler injection can be injected in deeper facial planes to address volume loss, correct facial asymmetry, and even contour the face, neck, buttock, and body.

Why Get Fillers at True Dermatology?

At True Dermatology, you will find that we uphold the highest standard of safety when it comes down to treating your face. Keep in mind that there are no standard or textbook ways of filler injections that will be one size fits all. Here we focus on facial balancing and using fillers as a way to reverse aging by “filling in” what was “lost”. This is a very different philosophy than using fillers to simply “enhance” facial features that were never there.

Juvederm ®, Restylane ®, and Radiesse ®, RHA®, Versa®, What is The Best Filler?

Most fillers are composed of hyaluronic acid, which is a substance found naturally in healthy skin. Hyaluronic acid concentration in the skin decreases with the aging skin. Brands like Jeuvederm ®, RHA ®, Versa ®, and Restylane ® are the most popular brands of non-permanent hyaluronic acid based fillers that can last anywhere from 1-2 years. We will determine in person what is the best one for you, there is no “gold standard” or “one size fits all”. If someone is trying to tell you that they “only use” something, it probably means they are only willing to purchase one brand of product regardless of whether it is the best for you because it is the best for their business.

Other longer lasting filler types include Radiesse ® composed of calcium hydroxyapatite function by stimulating naturally-occurring collagen. Results may last up to two years or longer. Some consider Radiesse ® to be “semi-permanent” given its desirable longevity compared to hyaluronic acid based fillers.

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