Loss of skin elasticity is a normal part of the aging process, and this usually starts in your mid-30’s or 40’s, depending on your skin care, diet, and lifestyle. A natural consequence of this is the appearance of lines and wrinkles. Luckily, non-invasive treatments like Botox^® injections can improve these signs of aging, even if only temporarily.

How does Botox^® work?

Briefly, Botox^® works by temporarily paralyzing the muscles that cause wrinkles and lines to appear. First-time patients are reminded that Botox^® doesn’t eliminate all types of wrinkles and lines as it is designed for dynamic lines and wrinkles only. What are these dynamic lines and wrinkles? They are those wrinkles and lines that appear whenever you make a facial expression such as frowning, laughing, smiling, squinting, or pouting. If you are in the habit of sipping from a straw, dynamic lip lines may likewise develop over time.

Can you combine other treatments with Botox^®?

Yes, there are certain facial treatments that can be safely combined with Botox^®. Here are some of them:

1. Dermal fillers

Dermal fillers are by far the most commonly paired non-invasive facial treatment with Botox^®. Dermal fillers are administered through injections as well, but their purpose is different from that of Botox^®. Fillers add volume to the injected areas, which are usually the cheeks and lips. Adding volume to the cheeks not only results in fuller, younger-looking cheeks but also in reduced wrinkle and line visibility.

2. Laser-assisted treatments

There are different types of laser-assisted treatments for the face. There are laser treatments to tighten the skin, which usually means stimulating the body’s natural collagen production improve elasticity and stimulate new skin growth. There are also fractional laser treatments to target specific areas of the face only, leaving the rest untouched and undisturbed. These are often undertaken to improve dark spots or age spots and other skin imperfections.

3. Chemical peels

Last but not the least are chemical peels. These treatments involve applying a specific chemical solution on the face to encourage peeling of the old skin to give way to new, healthier, and younger-looking skin. These are also designed to lighten dark spots, acne scars, and so on. Basically, these treatments even out your skin tone.

A word of caution to patients. These treatments shouldn’t be combined with Botox^® unless your doctor has cleared you for them. Dermal fillers are usually given the same time as Botox^®, but with the other treatments, you may need to schedule a separate session for them so as to allow Botox^® to settle first for optimal results.

Are you bothered by lines on your forehead or wrinkles around your eyes? Please feel free to call Capital Facial Plastic Surgery at (240) 630-8175 to schedule a consultation with Dr. Adam E. Singleton, MD. You may also schedule an appointment here.