In my New York City plastic surgery practice, many patients are interested in Botox (or related neuromodulator injections, Dysport and Xeomin). Not only is Botox the most popular cosmetic procedure in America, but it is also the most effective way to smooth out wrinkles and improve skin texture.
What is the best indication for Botox?
Botox is best used to:
- smooth out facial wrinkles in the forehead, glabella (between the eyebrows), and crows feet
- improve the proportions of facial features, such as the arch of the eyebrows, the resting position of a scowling mouth, and a gummy smile
- soften facial wrinkles while still allowing normal facial expressions
What is the best age to start using Botox?
Botox is best started before wrinkles develop in repose (while the face is at rest). Its main strength is treating dynamic (moving) wrinkles. If you have deep furrows that are present when the face is at rest, you may need an injectable filler like Juvederm, Restylane, Belotero, or Voluma to fill in those creases.
Many of my patients start using Botox as young as their 20s. I, in fact, started using Botox in my late 20s as well. Botox at this age is meant to be preventative-- if you don't ever develop the deep facial wrinkles that come with sun damage, genetics, age, and environmental factors, your face will age more gracefully and beautifully over time.
Will Botox freeze my face?
Not if it's done by someone with a light touch, meticulous microdroplet technique, and thorough understanding of facial anatomy. Well-done Botox will relax your face but preserve your ability to make normal facial expressions, express yourself, and feel normal. I do Botox for many people who work in professions where facial expressions are vitally important-- actors, actresses, psychiatrists, therapists, lawyers, politicians, and parents-- all of whom need to express a range of emotions on a regular basis.
If you are interested in Botox, please call my office at 212-452-2400, or email erica@LaraDevganMD.com.
