Not Just for Wrinkles: The Many Uses of BOTOX®, Explained by Albuquerque’s Western Dermatology Consultants

Unsurprisingly, BOTOX® continues to reign as the most popular non-surgical cosmetic procedure, both abroad and here at home in the United States. Dermatologists believe that much of this sustained popularity can be attributed to the preventative and versatile nature of BOTOX®. Albuquerque’s board-certified providers at Western Dermatology Consultants explain how this handy injectable smooths over issues besides the wrinkly foreheads of 40-somethings.

To comprehend the sheer breadth of applications for BOTOX®, it is fundamental to understand how it works.

Botulinum toxin type A is the active ingredient in neuromodulators such as BOTOX® (by Allergan), Dysport® (by Galderma), and Xeomin® (by Merz). This neurotoxin is a purified protein that can temporarily relax muscles by blocking the transmission of nerve impulses that would otherwise command them to contract.

In terms of the cosmetic benefits: no movement = no wrinkles, as relaxing muscles smooths “dynamic” wrinkles (i.e. caused by muscle contractions) on the skin sitting on top of them.

BOTOX® Cosmetic is most effective on wrinkles that have not yet become “static” (i.e. hold their form even when the muscle is not contracted) from losing elasticity over time. The treatment has become the non-surgical gold standard for improving the appearance of existing dynamic wrinkles, but it is also gaining steam as a preventative measure for relatively younger patients in their early 20s.

While some patients even younger than this may have received treatment with BOTOX® Cosmetic, it is important to note that the FDA does not recommend its use in anyone under the age of 18.

With repeat treatments spaced out between three to six months, muscles may remain relaxed while also allowing the face to create expression without their involvement. Regular maintenance sessions could lead to decreased use of the muscle overall, which means that the amount required each time may also reduce.

Younger patients who receive preventative BOTOX® treatment (and are often referred to as “baby BOTOX®” patients) only need very small doses, and may not need to be treated as frequently. Note that the actual age of the patient (as long as they are over 18) often matters less than factors such as genetics or family history, cause and extent of current wrinkling, and skin characteristics such as thickness and elasticity.

While the FDA has currently approved BOTOX® Cosmetic for correcting glabellar lines or 11s and crow’s feet, it has long been used by skilled, experienced injectors to:

-          Correct long, horizontal forehead lines and platysmal neck bands

-          Lift drooping eyebrows and downturned corners of the mouth

-          Reshape the jawline and correct a gummy smile

-          Smooth vertical lip lines, bunny lines at the nose, and a dimpled chin

While BOTOX® is best known for its cosmetic applications, it has a long list of medical uses. The first recorded uses of BOTOX® were actually to treat different types of muscular disorders.

Today, it can treat chronic migraines, excessive underarm sweating (axillary hyperhidrosis), muscle and joint stiffness, stress urinary incontinence, and eye muscle disorders such as blepharospasms and strabismus.

Patients have noted that the actual injection feels similar to a pinch on their skin. Those concerned about discomfort can request to have the treatment areas iced beforehand, or for a topical numbing cream to be used.

Since each patient will have unique concerns and areas to address, the recommended treatment protocol, including injection sites and dosage, will vary accordingly. BOTOX® results will take about 24 to 48 hours to show. Because of its minimally invasive nature, treatment sessions tend not to take very long and most patients can immediately go back to their usual activities, making it famous for being a “lunchtime procedure”.

The board-certified dermatologists at Western Dermatology Consultants have extensive experience using BOTOX®, and would be happy to advise anyone looking to learn more about the treatment and determine whether it is right for them. To request a consultation, contact the practice online or by phone at 505-855-9267.