Novel Uses for Botox and Filler
By now, we all know that Botox helps improve the look of fine lines and wrinkles, and filler can plump our pout and restore volume to the face. What's left to talk about? As it turns out, plenty!
There are FDA-approved and tried-and-true uses for Botox and filler products, but innovations are pushing the envelope of what these products can do, and not all applications are aesthetic. These injectables, Botox in particular, are being used to treat pain, excessive sweating and other conditions that can leave people feeling insecure or on the sidelines of life.
While indeed "novel," perhaps a better word would be "innovative" or "cutting edge." Contemporary uses for these products are not a flash-in-the-pan fad. They are quickly gaining popularity and becoming mainstream.
What’s New and Novel for Botox
The word "Botox" has become almost synonymous with wrinkle reduction. Beyond being on wrinkle patrol, Botox seems to be expanding its aesthetic empire by branching out into other aesthetic avenues.
"One popular off-label use is the brow lift, where Botox is strategically injected into the lateral brow depressors to create a subtle lift, opening the eyes and creating a more youthful, refreshed look," said Lara Devgan, MD. "Similarly, the 'Nefertiti neck lift' involves injections along the jawline and platysmal bands (neck) to refine the jaw contour, providing a lifted and more elegant appearance. Another sought-after treatment is trapezius slimming, where Botox is injected into the trapezius muscles (at the top of the back) to reduce bulk, elongate the neck and even relieve tension caused by stress or poor posture."
The paralytic effects of Botox can treat hyperhidrosis, or excessive sweating. The drug blocks nerve signals that tell sweat glands to activate, stopping sweat at the source. Even more novel is that Botox for sweat is not just for the underarms.
"By injecting Botox into the underarms, palms, soles of the feet or even the scalp, sweat production can be significantly reduced, improving comfort and confidence," said Dr. Devgan.
Another non-cosmetic use for Botox is called "masseter Botox."
"Masseter Botox is another powerful treatment that serves both cosmetic and medical purposes," said Dr. Devgan. "By reducing the size of the masseter muscles, Botox creates a slimmer, more V-shaped facial contour while also alleviating jaw clenching, teeth grinding (bruxism) and TMJ (temporomandibular joint) dysfunction. Many patients experience relief from chronic headaches and jaw pain, making this treatment both an aesthetic and quality-of-life enhancement."
Filler Rounds Out Its Aesthetic Role
The use of filler is also having an innovative moment. While the power of the plump hasn't diminished, there are novel ways that a skilled plastic surgeon can use filler to treat a new variety of aesthetic concerns.
"Fillers have evolved far beyond their traditional use for wrinkle reduction, now playing a crucial role in facial micro-optimization – the subtle enhancement of facial proportions to create a more harmonious and balanced appearance," said Dr. Devgan. "Unlike traditional volumizing techniques, micro-optimization focuses on refining small details, such as enhancing cheekbone projection, defining the jawline or correcting minor asymmetries. This approach allows injectors to sculpt a more naturally attractive facial structure without an 'overfilled' look. Another cutting-edge application is nonsurgical rhinoplasty, where hyaluronic acid fillers are used to straighten dorsal humps, refine the nasal tip or improve bridge height, offering an alternative to traditional surgery with minimal downtime."
The list of applications for filler is growing, according to Dr. Devgan.
Is New and Novel Good?
What's new is always exciting. However, it is always in the patient's best interest to do their research and talk to their plastic surgeon about innovations in the industry and what type of result they can expect. Some uses and procedures remain off-label, and patients need to understand what that means.
Trends also come and go, sometimes for a good reason. You may like the look specific novel treatment options can provide, but again, it pays to talk to your plastic surgeon about the reality of maintaining those results.
Consider whether you are looking for a sustainable treatment option or are chasing a trend. Talking to a board-certified plastic surgeon who is an ASPS member can help uncover whether a novel Botox or filler treatment is worth the hype and the cost.
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