Constant contractions of muscles in the face through acts such as smiling, laughing, frowning, etc., is what creates the lines throughout our face, and as we age, these acts continue to accentuate them. Neuromodulators help to improve or eliminate furrows in the skin by relaxing the muscles that cause these lines.
What is a Neuromodulator?
A neuromodulator is a wrinkle relaxing injection of botulinum toxin (commonly known as Botox, Xeomin, or Dysport), a cosmetic injection that causes the muscles in the face to relax by blocking the nerve signals sent from the brain that make the muscles contract and cause the fine lines and wrinkles that we see on our face.
Where Can it be Used?
It is most commonly used between the eyebrows, on horizontal forehead creases, and on crow’s feet around the eyes. It can also be used to treat major sagging in the neck area, by placing multiple injections into the platysma muscle down the side of the neck and along the lower jawline. This procedure is known as the Nefertiti Lift, so named for the Egyptian queen whose bone structure is still admired to this day. Since the time of the Egyptians, a well-defined jawline with a long neck has been a major sign of beauty.
How Do I Prepare for It?
Even though injections of botulinum toxin are normally low risk, it is very important to disclose a full medical history as well as any medication you are currently taking with your injector. Certain medications can cause complications, extra bruising, or extensive bleeding. No matter the type of procedure to be performed, it is very important to stay hydrated before and after the procedure for a safe recovery process.
Talk to your doctor or consult with your injector if you should skip or discontinue any medications you are currently taking to prevent any problems.
How is the Procedure Performed?
The procedure is not a time-consuming process. It can generally be performed on the same day as the initial evaluation. Once you and the injector have decided on an appropriate treatment, you and the medication to be used will both be prepared for the procedure. The site to be injected will be thoroughly cleansed and will not require any anesthesia prior to the injection. If you so desire, you may request a numbing cream or ice to help ease any discomfort. Comfort and peace of mind of our patients is the most important factor when preforming any procedure here at Transformation MediSpa.
In order to achieve the desired result and depending on your concerns, a number of injections will most likely need to be performed.
Results of the Procedure
Minimal redness and bleeding, short-lasting swelling, and minor pain may occur as a result of your procedure. It will take several days for the desired results to finally appear, and a follow-up visit, in 2 to 3 weeks, will be scheduled to track your progress.
Once the procedure is finished, you can return to your day to day business immediately, though any strenuous activity will be highly discouraged for 24 hours. The minimal redness and swelling that you may experience will quickly fade away and any bruising that you may experience will resolve over the next week or two.
In order to get the best results, you should:
• Refrain from touching or massaging the area that was injected. This can inadvertently cause the botulinum toxin to spread to another area not intended for the neuromodulator.
• Lying down or inverting your body after the injection can also cause complications.
• Refrain from engaging in any vigorous or strenuous activity for the rest of the day.
• Call the office and ask before taking any medication or painkillers.
How Long Will the Results Last?
After factoring in age, habits, and skin conditions, the effects of the neuromodulator can last somewhere between 3 to 4 months.
It is very important that you maintain a relationship with your provider.
If you have any questions or concerns, it is highly encouraged that you call. The effect of the botulinum toxin is not permanent. To maintain an aesthetically pleasing appearance, it is important to schedule your appointment in 3 to 4 months for your next treatment.
Note: Some individuals find their results last up to 6 months.
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