Botulinum toxin, known as Botox, is most commonly thought of cosmetically. There are different forms of Botox, with type A being used for cosmetic procedures.
Cosmetic Botox is injected into the following areas to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles:
- The eyes
- Brow lines
- Nose
- Mouth
At Dr Aesthetica, we offer Botox as an anti-ageing treatment, with results lasting between three to six months before a top-up appointment is required. We have rounded up some of the types of cosmetic Botox available to help you decide which may be the best course of action for you to take.
Botox brow lifts
Forehead wrinkles and fine lines are a common occurrence, particularly as we age. This is because we use our eyes as a way of portraying emotions, and when we are confused or are concentrating, we tend to furrow our brows. Over time, this wrinkles skin which is not able to bounce back as well as when we were younger.
A Botox brow lift refers to an injection that targets the frown lines on the forehead. It also works to lift your eyebrows and open your eyes more.
As with most Botox procedures, you will see the full effects from one week up to a month after the procedure. Some clients choose to pair this type of treatment with Botox targeting crow's feet.
Crow’s feet botox
Wrinkles positioned around the corners of the eye are referred to as crow's feet. Not only can this make a person look older than they are, but they can also make you appear tired. Crow's feet occur naturally with age as collagen and elasticity in the skin is lost.
Some of our clients choose Botox for crow's feet alongside a brow lift for results that help you look even younger.
You will see the results of crow’s feet Botox starting around seven days after the appointment and can enjoy the effect for three to four months before booking a top-up appointment.
You can wear makeup the day after your procedure, and you should be able to go back to work straight away. There is a risk of the Botox moving, so don't rub the skin around the injected area.
Botox for smile lines
Smile lines, also known as laughter lines or vertical lines, refers to wrinkles around the curve of the mouth and on the sides of the nose. They are caused by, as the name suggests, laughing or smiling.
Additional causes include smoking, sun exposure and the natural ageing process. Botox smooths these lines so you will be able to laugh to your heart's content.
Botox in particular can be used to soften the vertical lines around the lips often referred to as Barcode lines or Smoker’s Lines. The effect can be enjoyed for three to six months, at which point you would need to book another appointment if you want to continue treating the area.
Some clients opt to pair Dermal filler for smiles lines with treatments for barcode and gummy smile. Recovery time is quick, but you must not touch the area or lie face-down for four hours after the appointment. The full results will be apparent 14 days after treatment; however, you will start to see some results after three days.
Gummy smile botox
15% of adults have gummy smiles. This is when a large portion of your gums are visible when you smile. While there is nothing medically wrong with this, adults often dislike the extent to which their gums protrude when they smile.
There are a variety of reasons behind a gummy smile, including a shorter upper lip, a protruded maxilla or an abnormal or compensatory eruption of your teeth.
To treat a gummy smile without surgery, botox is injected either side of the nostril junction and the nose to mouth fold. This reduces muscle activity, counteracting a gummy smile.
Results last between three and six months or even longer, depending on your genetic makeup. Full results can be gauged approximately two weeks following treatment. As with other uses of cosmetic botox, you can book a follow-up appointment once effects start to fade.
Jaw slimming Botox
Some people naturally have a square-shaped or wide jawline, which gives off the appearance of looking older than you are. Unfortunately, this is caused by genetics, and can also stem from a hormonal disorder called Acromegaly. Face slimming Botox is a fantastic treatment, resulting in a slimmer jawline and a ‘V-shaped face’.
Full results usually peak approximately two weeks after the procedure and can be enjoyed for anything from three to six months.
Frequently asked questions about botox for cosmetic procedures
Why is Botulinum toxin used for cosmetic procedures?
When botulinum toxin is injected, it blocks muscle nerve signals, preventing contraction. The result of this is diminished lines and wrinkles, and a more youthful appearance.
Is Botox considered cosmetic surgery?
Botox is considered to be cosmetic surgery; however, it is not considered to be invasive because no incisions are made. Additionally, Botox appointments typically take 30 minutes, and recovery time is minimal.
What areas of the face can Botox be used on?
Botox can be used on numerous area on the face, including:
- Forehead and brow
- On the nose
- Crows feet near the eyes
- Around the lips
- On the chin, jaw and neckline
Is Botox safe for cosmetic procedures?
As with all procedures, both invasive and non-invasive, there are risks. Botulinum toxin is derived from bacteria; however, when you choose an accomplished non-surgical clinic, the risks are minimal and safety can be ensured.
With that said, there are circumstances where botox is not possible. This includes if you:
- Are unwell
- Have a skin infection
- Are pregnant or are breastfeeding
- Are taking certain medications
- Are diagnosed with a neuromuscular condition
Additionally, there are instances where people abuse Botox, at which point it can become dangerous. We will always offer Botox responsibly, and if we feel that you are booking an appointment sooner than is safe, we have the right to refuse treatment.
Botox Treatments in Birmingham
Whether you’re looking to reduce wrinkles, improve facial symmetry, treat excessive sweating, or alleviate teeth grinding, Dr. Aesthetica in Birmingham has you covered.
Botox is a versatile and popular treatment that offers numerous benefits:
- Smooths out wrinkles and fine lines for a more youthful and refreshed appearance
- Improves facial symmetry by precisely targeting and relaxing specific muscles
- Reduces excessive sweating in areas like the underarms, offering relief from hyperhidrosis
- Alleviates pain and tension caused by teeth grinding, jaw clenching, and migraines
- Achieves natural-looking results with custom dosing tailored to your unique facial features
At Dr. Aesthetica, we ensure that Botox is injected in just the right places to achieve the desired outcome, whether you’re looking to soften frown lines, diminish crow’s feet, or slim your jawline.
Contact Dr. Aesthetica today to learn more or schedule your Botox consultation in Birmingham!