BOTOX® and Xeomin®
BOTOX® and Xeomin® Injections
Facial expressions, such as laughing, frowning, squinting, and talking, over time can cause facial wrinkles. Some people develop wrinkles sooner than others. Oftentimes wrinkles make people feel old and self-conscious about their appearance. Though over-the-counter wrinkle creams may soften wrinkles, they often don’t eliminate them completely. Fortunately, there is a procedure available that can safely and successfully eliminate or decrease existing wrinkles from your face. They are called BOTOX® and Xeomin® injections.
How Do BOTOX® and Xeomin® Work?
BOTOX® and Xeomin® serum works by blocking nerve impulses to the muscles, causing them to relax. As a result, your expressions soften and the dynamic wrinkles are greatly reduced. The most commonly treated areas are those where muscle activity influences facial features, such as the following:
- Glabellar lines (a.k.a. “elevens” or frown lines between the eyebrows)
- Wrinkles around the eyes, such as crow’s feet
- Forehead creases
- Bunny lines (wrinkles on the side of the nose)
- A “cobblestoned” appearance on the chin
We offer BOTOX® and Xeomin® injections. The main distinction between BOTOX® and Xeomin®, lies in their formulation, which influences the dosage used, how much the product spreads, and how quickly you might see the results. For example, Botox Cosmetic is formulated with an accompanying protein, while Xeomin doesn’t contain an accompanying protein at all. Both of these products are FDA approved and have been used safely and effectively for years. Which of these products is best for you will depend on your unique anatomy, your goals, and our physician’s recommendations.
How Is the Procedure Performed?
As mentioned previously, BOTOX® or Xeomin® injections do not require anesthesia. A needle containing BOTOX® or Xeomin® is injected into the areas being treated to help relax contracted muscles. Typically, the injection causes minimum pain or discomfort, which quickly disappears. You will start seeing noticaeable improvements, in approximately 3 to 7 days, with maximum effect usually seen in about 2 weeks to 1 month. The wrinkle-reducing effects from botulinum treatments will vary depending on the patient, the area treated, and the product used, but results will typically last anywhere from 3 to 6 months. After that, another injection will be needed to continue keeping wrinkles at bay.
Are There Any Side Effects of BOTOX® and Xeomin®?
The most common side effects of BOTOX® and Xeomin® are mild redness, swelling at the injection site, and temporary bruising. Headaches have also been known to be a side effect but are usually rare, and resolve within 24 to 48 hours after the procedure. An incredibly small percentage of patients may experience eyelid drooping. This will usually resolve itself in three weeks. All other less frequent side effects will be explained in detail during your consultation and signing the Informed Consent form.
Who Shouldn’t Receive a BOTOX® or Xeomin® Injection?
If you are currently pregnant, have a neurological disease resulting in muscle weakness, and/or have a known allergy to any ingredient in the BOTOX® and Xeomin® injection, you should not have the service performed. Be sure to discuss all medications, vitamins, and supplements you are taking with our physician, during your pre-treatment consultation, to evaluate if you are a good candidate for the procedure. If you have any other concerns, during or after treatment, please contact our staff immediately.