What is Botox Cosmetic?

Botox (botulinum toxin type A) is the first and only FDA approved treatment to temporarily improve the appearance of moderate to severe frown lines, crow’s feet and forehead lines. The toxin is used in tiny doses for cosmetic purposes, using very fine needles.  Botox has been in use for dynamic wrinkles since 2002. It is safe and effective to treat dynamic wrinkles.  Results are excellent. There is minimal downtime and when used correctly, side effects are virtually nonexistent.

What are dynamic wrinkles?

Dynamic wrinkles are lines and grooves that result from repeated facial expressions such as frowning, smiling, and squinting, and are visible when you face is at rest, as well as with movement.

How does Botox work?

Botox is a temporary nerve blocker that relaxes and weakens muscle contractions that occur with facial movements, especially frowning and squinting that create dynamic wrinkles. It is one of the most popular and effective anti-aging treatments available. When administered in the last twenties and early thirties, it can ease dynamic wrinkles and lines and prevent or reduce wrinkle formation. For mature adults, Botox treatments provide anti-aging benefits improving dynamic wrinkles and reducing the severity of formation.

How long does it last?

The onset takes 24-48 hours. Noticeable results will appear within several days and lasts for up to four months for moderate to severe lines and grooves. Repeat injections will help to train treated muscles to relax thereby reducing the severity of the wrinkles. And over time, with repeated injections, the amount of Botox needed may decrease. Older patients with deep grooves may benefit from the use of fillers to plump the wrinkles.

What does Botox treat?

• Frown lines
• Vertical furrows between the eyes called the “elevens”
• Wrinkles on the bridge of the nose called bunny lines
• Horizontal forehead lines
• Crow’s feet around the eyes- crow’s feet from on the cheeks near the outer corners of the eyes
• Vertical lip lines
• Neck bands
• Excessive sweating in the underarms and palms

In the experienced hands of Dr. Saini additional applications include:

• Brow lifting
• Raising the corners of the mouth to improve your smile
• Jawline contouring by treating the masseter muscle

Why is it important to have my Botox from a board-certified dermatologist?

The safety and results of Botox injections are conditioned on the expertise and skill on the injector. In the wrong hands, Botox injections can cause side effects including drooping eyelids, uneven eyebrows, asymmetry and dry eye. When used around the mouth, poor injection technique can cause drooling and a crooked smile.  Dr. Saini is one of a select group of dermatologists selected to serve as a national trainer for Botox Cosmetic. She will inject the amount needed to relax facial expressions but not to eliminate them.

Who is a good candidate?

Generally anyone with dynamic wrinkles is a good candidate. During your consultation, it is important to tell Dr. Saini about your medical history and all medications you take. If you take blood thinners including fish oil supplements, discuss with Dr. Saini at your consultation. Blood thinners increase the risk of bruising. People with muscle and nerve conditions should discuss your concerns with Dr. Saini before receiving injections.

During your consultation, Dr. Saini will carefully evaluate your natural facial movements to assure application addresses your specific needs and concerns. During the procedure, she will typically inject four or five areas in between the eyebrows, and two to three areas around the eye. You will receive complete instructions about actions to take after injections.

Dr. Ritu Saini is a board-certified, and fellowship trained dermatologist in New York who strives to provide her patients with the latest advancements in cosmetic dermatology in safe and compassionate manner.