Points Well Made: Maximizing ‘Botox’ for Your Face

Cosmetic Surgery
Points Well Made: Maximizing ‘Botox’ for Your Face
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Jul 26, 2019 - 9:33:32 AM

(HealthNewsDigest.com) - Roslyn, NY, July 26, 2019 - When a Canadian eye doctor happened upon the furrow-erasing effect of ‘Botox,’ she never looked back: “I haven’t frowned since 1987,” she remarked years later. For Dr. Lance Barazani of Advanced Dermatology PC, this is no surprise: “When it comes to ‘Botox,’ she’s hardly alone in her satisfaction.”

A New York Magazine “Best Doctor,” Dr. Barazani speaks from experience: He’s been using ‘Botox’ to help patients resolve their wrinkle woes since the novel ingredient first made its appearance as an anti-ager.

In the beginning, the smoothing power of ‘Botox’ was an unexpected bonus: The frown-free Canadian ophthalmologist had been using the muscle inhibitor to reduce patients’ eye spasms when a client returned for a follow-up – not for her eyes but to maintain her newly smoothed brow.

In 2002, the Food and Drug Administration approved the injections for cosmetic use in the United States. Since then, ‘Botox’ has boomed, becoming the country’s go-to non-surgical anti-wrinkle procedure.

In 2018, the numbers climbed to 7.4 million, making ‘Botox’ far and away the most popular minimally invasive cosmetic treatment, according to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons. “Safety, efficacy, and patient satisfaction have added up to increasing demand,” observes Dr. Barazani.

The injections work by introducing tiny amounts of botulism toxin (the scary-sounding scientific name for ‘Botox’) to block nerve impulses that trigger muscle movement – and the wrinkles that they cause. “These are what we consider ‘dynamic’ wrinkles,” explains Dr. Barazani, “wrinkles that form due to repetitive facial movements, like smiling, frowning, and squinting.”

“Right now, for cosmetic use, there are four branded formulas on the market,” continues Dr Barazani. “Botox®, Dysport®, Xeomin® and Jeuveau®. The doctor’s knowledge base for each product’s specifications is crucial.”

“Plus,” Dr. Barazani adds, “ongoing research is shining light on new ways of using ‘Botox,’ expanding its potential to address wrinkle zones.”

1. Choose your doctor carefully: “The face has more than 40 muscles,” emphasizes Dr. Barazani. “And each individual has unique muscle mass, bone structure, and skin characteristics. To make the most of ‘Botox,’ it’s important to work with someone with expertise who can truly customize your treatment.”

2. Remember: Location, location, location: “Botulinum toxin works by limiting the muscle movements that cause dynamic wrinkles,” explains Dr. Barazani. “That’s where we want to target the treatments. On the other hand, photoaging – wrinkles caused by the sun – is a different category. Make sure that you have a clear understanding of what’s causing your wrinkles and the best treatments to address them.”

3. Expand your target: “‘Botox’ can address more than forehead wrinkles and crow’s feet,” Dr. Barazani observes. “For example, the dynamic wrinkles that develop around our mouths may also be good candidates. But we want to keep in mind that the lower section of the face has complex muscle structure, so it’s important to choose one’s doctor carefully, and perhaps start with a limited dose. More can be added later.”

4. Consider a ‘combo’: “Integrating treatments can create a complementary boost,” notes Dr. Barazani. “When ‘Botox’ is combined with steps to increase collagen and hyaluronic acid – important supports that keep our skin smooth and firm – the combined approaches can enhance each other.”

5. Customize your follow-ups: “Typically, ‘Botox’ lasts three to six months,” says Dr. Barazani. “But with ongoing treatments, patients may start to see longer-lasting effects. Staying flexible about follow-ups can help maintain a consistent, natural look.”

“After almost two decades,” Dr. Barazani concludes, “’Botox’ is fresher than ever, thanks to advances that keep moving the needle forward.”

Lance Barazani, M.D., F.A.A.D., is board-certified in dermatology and specializes in all areas of medical dermatology for adults and children, the prevention and treatment of skin cancer, cosmetic dermatology and laser surgery.

Advanced Dermatology P.C. and the Center for Laser and Cosmetic Surgery (New York & New Jersey) is one of the leading dermatology centers in the nation, offering highly experienced physicians in the fields of cosmetic and laser dermatology as well as plastic surgery and state-of-the-art medical technologies.www.advanceddermatologypc.com.