Botox 101

Some basic information for anyone considering cosmetic botox or just curious to learn more... 🔍

Botox is a brand name for botulinum toxin A. The name is often used to describe a whole class of neuromodulators / neurotoxins but there are multiple products on the market, like Dysport,  that work in a similar manner. Fun Fact: Canada was the birthplace of cosmetic botox. It was pioneered by Vancouver physicians Drs. Jean & Alastair Carruthers (who I did my fellowship with) 

With botox, the effect occurs at a specific location where it is injected in the muscle. Here the botulinum toxin attaches to nerve endings. Once attached it inhibits the release of the neurotransmitter responsible for triggering muscle contractions. It reduces the strength of the muscle, thereby minimizing the appearance of wrinkles as muscles remain relaxed. The effects will generally last for 3-6 months.

One of the most common uses for botox is to treat lines in the upper third of the face. These lines are formed due to repetitive muscle movement. One location is the glabella, where botox is used to treat the “11s” (the lines made when you frown). Botox can also be used to treat horizontal forehead lines, “crow’s feet” and "bunny lines." We also use it to provide an eyebrow lift, to help with dimpling of the chin, and to treat masseters for TMJ pain and to slim the face. There is a large list of areas that can be treated, both on and off label, but these are some of the most common. “Baby botox” (smaller doses) may be used in younger patients to try to prevent the formation of lines over time. 

It's important to understand that Botox works to treat dynamic wrinkles, not static wrinkles.  Dynamic wrinkles only appear when you make facial expressions, for example when you furrow your brow, frown, or smile, so you don't see them when your face is still. For deeply etched in static lines, soft tissue fillers may need to be considered as well.

Only you can decide whether or not botox (or any other cosmetic treatment) is right for you. If you are looking for more information or ready to proceed, speak to a specialist trained in the use of injectables.