03
Jan
Frequently asked questions about Botox® injections
Botox® is a well-known brand name, but not many patients know how versatile it can be. While Botox® is often associated with cosmetic improvements of the face, it is used for so much more! Some non-cosmetic applications include excessive sweating (hyperhidrosis), migraine and tension headaches, jaw clenching (bruxism), involuntary facial and eyelid spasms, and tics. Dr. John Burroughs and his team at Springs Aesthetics of Colorado Springs, Colorado, can talk to you about the many uses of Botox® medication.
What is Botox®?
Dr. John Burroughs describes Botox® as a purified “neuromodulating” protein that temporarily relaxes muscles. It is formulated with botulinum toxin type A, which is created by a bacterium called Clostridium botulinum. Appropriate dosing of this neuromodulator can temporarily cause small areas of micro paralysis that are useful to relax muscles and improve static and dynamic wrinkle line appearance. Botox® is approved by the FDA for various medical purposes and later gained popularity for its cosmetic applications. Allergan was the first to bring botulinum, Botox®, for widespread use.
Are all forms of Botox® (botulinum) equal or the same?
For all practical purposes, all the botulinum toxin A serotypes work similarly with minor variances. The three most common and extensively used are OnabotulinumtoxinA “Botox® ” produced by Allergan, IncobotulinumtoxinA “Xeomin” produced by Merz, and AbobotulinumtoxinA “Dysport” produced by Galderma. Owing to the benefits and safety profile of the FDA-approved botulinum toxins, other manufacturers are bringing other variants to market. Cross-sectional studies have demonstrated similar efficacy for the three major brands. Dysport has a somewhat quicker onset than the other two. Similar to perfumes or antiperspirants, some patients prefer one over another, and sometimes switching from one to another can be beneficial regarding the beneficial effects.
What is wrinkle blocker, and is it the same as Botox®?
Wrinkle blocker is a term many aesthetic practitioners use to collectively describe any of the injectable botulinum products available. Other used terms are muscle relaxer, wrinkle relaxer, and “tox.” Similar to facial tissue having such brands as “Kleenex” or “Scott” tissue.
What are the most common uses of Botox®?
One of the most common uses of Botox® is to reduce wrinkles and fine lines on the face, particularly around the eyes (known as crow’s feet) and between the eyebrows (known as frown lines). However, it also has an array of medical applications, such as treating chronic migraines, muscle spasms, excessive sweating, and an overactive bladder. Microdosing into the superficial skin can improve skin quality and lessen excessive skin sebum production (“oily skin”).
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How long does a Botox® treatment last?
The effects of Botox® vary from patient to patient but typically last around three to four months for most individuals. With repeated treatments, the results can last longer as the muscles become trained to relax. Dr. John Burroughs and the team at Springs Aesthetics will discuss with you how often you should receive injections based on your specific needs and desired outcomes. For ongoing improvements, regular treatments should be performed to ensure maintained results.
Is Botox® safe?
Botox® medication has been used for several decades and is considered safe when expertly administered by a qualified medical professional like Dr. John Burroughs or our aesthetic nurse, Melissa Burroughs. However, as with any type of medication, there is a potential risk for side effects such as bruising, redness at the injection site, or even rare flu-like symptoms. These are usually temporary and mild. The side effects from botulinum injections are fortunately temporary and wear off over time. Several of the rare though visible side-effects have available treatments, such as Upneeq drops if an eyelid droops or complimentary bruise treatments.
Can anyone receive Botox® injections?
While Botox® is generally safe for most people, there are some patients who should not receive it. They include:
- Women who are pregnant or breastfeeding
- Individuals with a history of allergic reactions to Botox® or its ingredients
- Patients with certain medical conditions, including neuromuscular disorders (e.g., myasthenia gravis)
Who can I call to learn more about Botox® injections “near me?”
Dr. John Burroughs and the team at Springs Aesthetics are available to help you decide what treatments are best for your unique needs. Whether you are considering Botox® to address dynamic wrinkles and folds on the face or as a treatment for hyperhidrosis or overactive bladder, we can assist. Call (719) 749-3606 to request an appointment at our office, conveniently located at 300 Garden of the Gods Road, Suite #100.
John Burroughs, M.D.
Dr. John Burroughs specializes in eyelids, orbits, and faces and has performed over 20,000 related procedures. His role in oculofacial plastic surgeries has been highly appreciated.
He is an alumnus of the Air Academy High School, University of Texas, and Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences (F. Edward Hebert School of Medicine), Maryland. He later followed a transitional internship and ophthalmology residency in San Antonio, TX, and has decades of aesthetic treatment experience.
Dr. Burroughs is American Board of Ophthalmology-certified and is a Fellow of the American Society of Ophthalmic Plastic Reconstructive Surgeons, the Oculofacial Society and the American Academy of Ophthalmology and a member of many other associations. He is a lifelong learner and teacher.