Many patients do not know that Naturopathic Doctors can inject Neuromodulators that block nerve impulses and smooth out wrinkle creases in the skin. There are different brands of Neuromodulators, BOTOX is the most commonly known ( much like KLEENEX is the most commonly known nose tissue J ), but I prefer XEOMIN, and I will explain why below. Both are approved by Health Canada are and are now the most commonly performed cosmetic injection worldwide.
Dr. Aziz offers a free 15-minute consultation for discussing the pros and cons of Botox for you and how much you will need to achieve the look that you want, something refreshed and clean as opposed to overdone.
Neuromodulators work by injecting a tiny amount of protein accurately into the muscles that cause the wrinkles, to relax them. Botox & Xeomin are called neuromodulators as they safely and temporarily block nerve impulses, which smooth out the wrinkle creases in the skin. When executed artfully, Botox injections create a younger, awakened appearance, without looking frozen or feeling numb.
What Areas can Botox Treat?
Botox Injections Treat Wrinkles:
- Around the Eyes (Crow’s Feet – Smile lines)
- Horizontal lines in the Forehead (Surprise lines)
- Vertical lines between Eyebrows (Frown lines)
- Bunny lines beside Nose (Squint lines)
Botox Injections also Treat Additional Areas:
- Eyebrow Lift
- Vertical Lip Lines
- Mouth Frown
- Dimpling Chin
- Upper Lip (for Gummy Smile)
- Tight Jaw Muscles (for TMJ Syndrome / to narrow Square Face Shape)
What are the Benefits of Botox?
Benefits of Botox to Address Facial Wrinkles:
- Fast, painless, in office procedure
- Less invasive with no downtime unlike cosmetic surgery
- Gradual softening of facial lines lasting 3 – 6 months
Is there a Recovery Time with Botox?
Botox injections are so quick with minimal discomfort that most patients can resume their normal activities after treatment. The odd patient may experience slight bruising or headache.
How Long can Botox Last?
When you discuss your expectations with Dr. Aziz will recommend the amount of protein you may need. The treatment time may be up to 15 minutes, depending on which areas you would like to address. After a few days, the effects of the treatment become noticeable in gradual softening of your skin’s appearance, with facial lines and wrinkles reducing markedly over 2 weeks. The effects of Botox vary in patients, though typically it can last up to 6 months. Maintenance treatments are often required, with repeated injections often producing a longer lasting effect.
Is Botox Safe?
Botox injections are quick and painless, with really no downtime in most patients. Occasionally, the odd patient may experience any temporary symptoms of redness, numbness, bruising or headache. Rarely, if the protein migrates to the upper eyelid, a transient slight drooping can occur. This is self correcting over time. Botox should not be done on:
- Pregnant or Breast-feeding Women
- Patients with Neuromuscular disorders (Myasthenia gravis, Eaton Lambert Syndrome)
- Patients with Facial Infections
- Patients Allergic to Botox or Xeomin
What is the Difference between Botox & Xeomin?
- Xeomin is the purest form, without complex proteins (human albumin) = Less Allergic Reactions with Long Term Use
- Xeomin does not require refrigeration = Less Compromised Injections from Temperature Instability
- Xeomin has been proven to have the same therapeutic effect as Botox without the issues above
- How Much does Botox Cost?
Dr Aziz charges $9 per unit. On average, patients may use 20-50 units. Patient dosages range with:
- Gender (Men often require more as their muscles are stronger)
- Repeated Use (Increased treatments have a longer lasting effect)
- Number of areas treated (More areas require more protein)
- Individual variability
This article is for educational purposes only and does not advocate self-diagnosis. Due to individual variability, consultation with a licensed health professional, such as a naturopathic physician is highly recommended, prior to starting a natural treatment plan