Botox continues to be the most widely used anti-aging procedure in the world. It makes sense why, as you can remove wrinkles and lines for months at a time with a few short injections. However, what occurs if you use it for a long time? Does getting these treatments again affect your appearance or health in any way?
Botulinum toxin type A is used to make the injectable medication known as Botox. The bacterium Clostridium botulinum produces this toxin.
The consequences of this toxin differ depending on the type and amount of exposure. The toxin that causes botulism is the same, a potentially fatal form of food poisoning. For instance, injections are only given in minute, precise amounts.
It interrupts the signals your nerves provide to your muscles when injected. The targeted muscles’ inability to contract can alleviate some muscular disorders and lessen the visibility of fine lines and wrinkles.
How does the Botox procedure work?
In contrast to other methods of wrinkle reduction, It does not contain a dermal filler. Our skilled treatment specialist administers a direct injection into a wrinkle, furrow, or frown line when a patient visits our office for treatment. As a result, the muscle underneath it becomes momentarily paralyzed. The damaged area can take up to four months to start smoothing out.
Here are the long-term implications you should consider as you consider your options.
When should I begin using BOTOX?
These injections, also known as “preventative BOTOX,” can delay the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines caused by repeated facial expression changes. This process is best done in your late 20s or early 30s. These dynamic wrinkles, also known as expression lines, commonly appear on the forehead and around the eyes. More and more individuals in these age brackets are getting injections to start delaying the onset of aging symptoms.
Will it weaken my muscles over time?
A neurotoxin called Botox works by preventing your brain from sending messages that would otherwise cause particular muscles to contract. We stop the muscles in those areas from contracting, allowing the overlying wrinkles to relax and smooth out (most frequently forehead lines, frown lines, and crow’s feet).
Because you won’t be moving those particular muscles as much while it works, they may gradually weaken to a minor degree over time. Many consider this side effect a benefit: Those who regularly schedule the treatments discover its results endure longer.
What takes place if I stop using Botox long-term?
After several years of routine injections, the only effect of stopping the treatments is that your wrinkles will resurface a little more gradually than if you had not been taking the injections.
It’s true: You will continue to appear younger than you would have if you had never gotten an injection, even after you stop. In one trial of twins, long-term treatment resulted in fewer and milder wrinkles over time, essentially delaying the onset of aging.
If you choose to stop receiving treatment, you are free to do so whenever you choose without risking adverse side effects.
Does long-term Botox pose any safety risks?
It is a low-risk, FDA-approved procedure with a stellar safety record. It is unlikely that long-term treatment use will have any harmful effects on you if you continue to work with a qualified, experienced injector.
As you become older, you can reach a stage where various medical procedures are advantageous instead of or in addition to your regular injections. When you have an excellent working connection with your injector, they will also keep an eye on your aging symptoms and, if necessary, suggest alternatives like dermal fillers or laser skin resurfacing.
Understanding costs when examining the benefits of Botox
Most patients shop around for the best deal without fully understanding what they are obtaining. Your doctor receives unadulterated Botox Cosmetic when they order it. Before therapy, the practitioner must dilute for preparation. The quantity of dilatants determines how many units are administered to each patient. It’s critical to understand how many units and how much each one costs in your treatment plan.
Takeaway
At Beauty from Ashes, our philosophy of “look better, feel better, do better” is at the core and the team truly works towards this.
For your consultation, one of our certified aestheticians will meet with you. She can answer any concerns you may have about the side effects of long-term Botox use. Trust us. You’ll be in good hands.