Botox
What are Botox, Dysport, Xeomin and Nuceiva?
Botox, Dysport, Xeomin and Nuceiva are brand names for botulinum toxin A, an injectable medication that relaxes the contractions of the muscles of expression that create wrinkles on the face.
The cosmetic use of Botox is originally a Vancouver discovery! Dr Jean Carruthers was treating her patients with blepharospasms (spasms around the eye area) when she noticed it also relaxed wrinkles that are caused by repeat contraction of muscles of expression. She shared her findings with her husband Dr Alastair Carruthers, and together they embarked on the scientific development of what is now known as Botox.
Dysport, Xeomin and Nuceiva are competing brand names of botulinum toxin A. Though they are more similar than different, some subtle nuances exist between them that will be addressed during your consultation.
What can Botox, Dysport, Xeomin and Nuceiva treat?
Botox, Dysport, Xeomin and Nuceiva are especially well-suited at relaxing lines that are caused by animation of the muscles of the face. Frown lines, crows’ feet and forehead lines are among the most well-known wrinkles to be treated. In some patients, the treatment can also be used to gently lift the brow and open up the eye area. Other sites on the face, like the jelly roll (bunching under the eye), the bunny lines (wrinkling at the sides of the nose), a gummy smile, pulled-down corners of the mouth or neck bands can be treated. In patients with large masseter muscles, Botox, Dysport, Xeomin and Nuceiva can be used to slim the face. Treatment of medical conditions, such as excess sweating or migraines, is also possible.
What is the treatment and recovery like after Botox, Dysport, Xeomin and Nuceiva?
On the day of treatment, we review our conservative plan with you, we review consent forms and we take photos in our dedicated photo studio. The skin is cleansed and the anatomy is traced out. Injections are delivered – most patients feel but a small sharp poke. The areas of injection look a bit like mosquito bites for a few minutes only. Rarely, a small bruise may occur at an injection site. Extreme care is taken to avoid nearby muscles that should not be affected by the treatment to avoid a heavy lid, heavy brow or asymmetrical smile. The effects of treatment can be observed anywhere from 2-14 days after injection, depending on the patient. At two weeks, the effect is maximal. Most patients are happy with the outcome for 3-4 months, meaning many patients are in the office 3 times per year.
Curious to put together a plan for treatment with Botox, Dysport, Xeomin or Nuceiva? Contact our office for a consultation.
