Article At A Glance
- Misconceptions include rarely frozen faces, pain during treatment, the prevention of new wrinkles, and a painful 3-4 months process.
- It benefits individuals of all genders and ages, offering aesthetic improvements and treating various medical conditions.
Botox is one of the most common non-invasive aesthetic treatments available today. With just a few injections, you can reduce signs of aging and remove unwanted wrinkles. Although Botox treatment has many cosmetic benefits, some still question its validity and safety.
Dr. James Wang has worked with the chemical botulinum toxin since its introduction in 2001. Botox is different for everyone, and like any treatment, everyone has a different experience.
However, many do not know the facts about Botox treatment. Misinformation continues to spread, causing others to form incorrect opinions about cosmetic treatment. Dr. James Wang is here to clarify some of these common misconceptions about Botox treatment.
Myth: You Will Look Frozen After Botox Injections
“Frozen face” is a popular term used to describe people who cannot move their facial muscles due to Botox. Contrary to popular belief, this is not a common side effect of Botox. This condition is usually a result of overdosage. In moderation, Botox relaxes muscle movement. Only an excessive number of injections can cause tightness and even drooping eyelids.
Most cases involving a stiff or frozen face are due to improper handling. Therefore, it is essential to go to an experienced professional for your treatment. Experts such as Dr. James Wang know how many units to inject to give a natural, ageless look.
Myth: You Cannot Form Natural Facial Expressions After Botox Injections
As stated earlier, symptoms of a tight face are usually caused by overdosage. Botox works by blocking nerve signals that prevent muscles from contracting, so relaxing the muscles. You will still be able to move your face and make expressions after treatment.
The proper technique keeps the patient looking young and refreshed instead of frozen and stiff. Also, Botox is not permanent. So, if you are unhappy with the results, it only lasts three to four months. After this period, your face will gradually return to its original appearance before treatment.
Myth: Botox Treatment is Painful
Contrary to popular belief, Botox treatment is not a painful procedure. Your doctor uses a very thin needle to inject the chemical, a sensation that many patients describe as nothing more than a slight pinch. If needles scare you or you have low pain tolerance, some doctors may use a topical anesthetic to numb the area beforehand.
This is another reason why a professional with proficient training is crucial. A doctor highly skilled with injectables can prevent bruising or discoloration. They are trained to make sure you are comfortable and that the procedure goes as smoothly as possible.
Myth: Botox Injections Prevent New Wrinkles
Many factors contribute to wrinkle formation. Skin loses elasticity as collagen production declines with age, which causes fine lines and wrinkles. Regular Botox treatment smooths existing wrinkles by preventing muscles that cause wrinkles from moving. The treatment can also slow new ones from forming but cannot prevent new wrinkles entirely.
There are two types of wrinkles: dynamic and static.
- Dynamic wrinkles appear and disappear when your face moves
- Static wrinkles show when your face is at rest
Botox can reduce the appearance of both types, but static wrinkles may require additional treatment. Preventative Botox is better in the long run because deep wrinkles are more difficult and expensive to treat.
Myth: Botox is Toxic, and the Long-term Impacts are Unknown
The injections of botulinum toxin that you will receive during treatment are a purified protein version. Botox is a neurotoxin obtained from Clostridium botulinum and directly injected into the muscles; it is not absorbed into the bloodstream, making Botox non-toxic.
Medically, Botox is extremely safe since it is diluted and used in small dosages. It takes over 3,000 units of Botox to severely harm a human. Botox treatments are usually 100 units.
Many believe that the long-term impacts of Botox are unknown. However, people have used Botox since the 1980s. For over 20 years, doctors have used it for cosmetic purposes, and patients have experienced its wrinkle-reducing effects.
The FDA approved Botox in 2002 for cosmetic use after many series of studies and research that found its use to be safe and efficient. Botox treatment is also continuously checked and regulated to ensure it meets standards.
Myth: Once You Start Botox Treatment, You Can’t Stop
Botox contains no addictive properties and injections last three to four months. If you stop your treatment, your wrinkles will reemerge with time and repeated movements, but they will not worsen. Your face gradually returns to its original state before the procedure.
Since Botox is not a permanent treatment, regular treatment is necessary to maintain results. Individuals return because they love the results and want the aesthetic effects. A Botox procedure can leave you feeling happier and more confident.
Myth: Botox Will Affect Your Entire Body
Like any treatment, Botox is not without risks. An allergic reaction to the treatment can cause eye issues, such as double vision. These problems tend to go away since the effects of Botox only last three to four months. But it is always good to talk with the doctor performing the Botox treatment if you have any concerns or allergies.
Remember that Botox only works on the injected muscles. The chemical cannot spread to other areas of your body.
Botox effectively treats many medical conditions such as:
1.Eye twitching or spasms
2. Hyperhidrosis (abnormally excessive sweating)
3. Chronic migraines
4. Overactive bladder
5. Cervical dystonia (abnormal contraction of neck muscles)
Myth: Botox Is Only for Women
Anyone can benefit from Botox treatment! This safe and effective treatment offers more than aesthetic benefits; it can also treat muscle spasms and migraines. No ideal patient exists, and many people use Botox.
Many believe that Botox treatment is only for women, but more men are getting Botox. A common goal among Botox patients is to slow down the signs of aging and reduce the appearance of wrinkles.
For those seeking Botox treatment, there is no age range. Older patients are not the only ones who get Botox. Preventative Botox is extremely effective for younger individuals in stopping wrinkles before they form. Waiting until after wrinkles appear can lead to more difficulties smoothing the skin out.
Botox Treatment in Chicago
Botox treatments are fast, effective, and safe. Not only does a Botox treatment leave you looking better, but patients report feeling more confident. Increase your confidence with the youthful and radiant glow that Botox can give you. There is nothing wrong with wanting to look your best.
The effects of Botox are gradual, so the full results may take one to two injections. If swelling occurs after treatment, simply apply ice to the area, and it should be gone within an hour.
Chicago Magazine lists Dr. James as one of the best plastic surgeons in the area. As a board-certified facial plastic surgeon, Dr. James has experience providing Botox treatment for patients in the Chicago area. When you schedule your appointment with Dr. James, he works with you to design a Botox treatment tailored to your needs.
Are you ready to take the next step? Schedule your consultation today by calling our office at (312) 695-8182 or completing our online form to request an appointment with Dr. James Wang.
