As people age, routine facial movements such as smiles and frowns can leave wrinkles and lines. If untreated, these can become very deep and obvious, making the patient look older. A variety of cosmetic treatments are available for wrinkles, however, including Botox® treatment. Dr. Charles Dietzek, of the Vein and Vascular Institute of New Jersey, offers aesthetic services including Botox® treatment.
What is Botox® Treatment?
Botox® is a medication that is actually made from a bacteria, Clostridium botulinum. Although the bacteria is the source of a disease called botulism — a type of food positioning — Botox® is different. The bacteria produces a toxin that causes paralysis, and it is this characteristic that is harnessed in Botox®. Highly refined, the protein from the toxin is used in very small amounts to treat wrinkles in the face as well as conditions like excessive underarm sweating, migraines, overactive bladder and misaligned eyes.
How is Botox® Used?
Like the toxin produced by the bacteria, Botox® can cause paralysis; however the paralysis is temporary and only affects individual nerves. Muscle contractions under the skin and loss of fatty tissue under the skin result in wrinkles and facial lines. Because Botox® prevents the muscle from contracting, the wrinkles disappear and the skin remains smooth. Botox® is injected with very fine needles. The effects of a Botox® treatment usually last about three months, although some may last as long as twelve, depending on the patient.
What’s the Advantage of Botox® Over Other Treatments?
A Botox® treatment is an office-based procedure, unlike a surgical procedure like a face-lift. It is quick — usually only 20 to 30 minutes — and there are no incisions. The patient can immediately resume normal activities as there is no downtime. Only an ice pack or local anesthetic are required; there is little to no pain. In most cases, results are immediate and side effects are either non-existent or minor. Although further treatments may be required to maintain the desired look, they are equally quick.
Who is a Good Candidate for Botox® Treatment?
Almost anyone — male or female — who is in good general health and has facial wrinkles would be a good candidate for Botox® treatment. Age is irrelevant. If the wrinkles are caused by sagging skin, Botox® is unlikely to be effective. However, wrinkles around or between the eyes, on the forehead or neck usually respond to Botox® treatment. Women who are pregnant or breastfeeding shouldn’t have Botox® treatments, and it cannot be used in people who are allergic to the medication.
Don’t let wrinkles make you look older. Contact us at the Vein and Vascular Institute of New Jersey for an appointment. We offer three convenient locations as well as other cosmetic treatments and aesthetic services. Let Dr. Charles Dietzek smooth out those annoying wrinkles and make you look younger.