Author: Dr. Luis Sevinsky, Dermatologist
O ne of the most globally recognized treatments in the dermatological and aesthetic field for reducing wrinkles is the injection of botulinum toxin, more commonly known as Botox.
This procedure is very safe and is designed to smooth expression lines, resulting in a more relaxed and natural-looking face. The main goal of Botox is to reduce wrinkles without creating an artificial appearance, maintaining the natural expressions that patients find so appealing.
What is Botox?
Botox is a brand name, but there are other options on the market with the same effectiveness. The active ingredient in this medication, botulinum toxin, works by blocking communication between nerves and muscles. By disrupting this connection, the muscles are temporarily weakened, which prevents them from contracting normally. As a result, expression lines, also known as dynamic wrinkles, are softened or even disappear. The most common areas for treatment are the forehead, between the eyebrows, and crow’s feet, always aiming for a natural appearance and avoiding the "frozen face" effect that used to be common in the past.
Duration of the Effect
The effectiveness of Botox lasts for about three months, though the muscles take an additional one or two months to fully regain their mobility. This means the cosmetic effect of the treatment can extend to four or five months. For this reason, it is recommended to undergo new applications every four to five months to maintain the desired results.
What is the Procedure Like?
The procedure is quick and simple. The patient comes to the consultation, where an intramuscular injection is administered with an extremely fine needle, similar to those used by diabetic patients. This injection is done in the upper areas of the face, such as the forehead and around the eyes. The only minor risk is the possible appearance of small bruises, caused by the needle puncturing a superficial vein.
Once the injection is applied, the patient is advised to move the treated areas for about 30 minutes to ensure that the botulinum toxin is properly distributed in the muscles. Additionally, on the same day of the treatment, it is important to avoid intense physical activity, not touch the injected areas, and refrain from applying makeup for at least four hours. After this time, the patient can resume normal life without any issues.
Post-Treatment Checkup
A week after the application, a follow-up visit is usually recommended to assess whether any touch-ups are needed. This follow-up is essential to ensure the effectiveness of the treatment and achieve the most satisfying results.
If you are interested in learning more about this treatment or have questions about its application, we invite you to visit our treatment section for more information. In our clinic, we are committed to providing you with safe, high-quality service tailored to your aesthetic needs. You can schedule your consultation directly here.