Lines and Wrinkles

After years of squinting, laughing, frowning, smoking, worrying, and sun exposure, your skin inevitably develops  lines and wrinkles. Some of these lines are "expression lines." Other lines and wrinkles are from aging and sun damage.   Until now, expression lines have been difficult to treat. Now, by utilizing an already approved muscle-relaxing agent, expression lines can be significantly reduced. Depending on the type of lines and wrinkles you have, you can choose from several options to correct the desired area.  Botox and Collagen are two methods we use to treat wrinkles and soften your appearance.

What is BOTOX� and how does it work?

BOTOX� is a therapeutic muscle-relaxing agent derived from the bacterium, Clostridium Botulinum.   For years physicians have been using BOTOX� as a cosmetic treatment to correct visible signs of stress and aging.

Your brain sends messages to your muscles so that they can contract and move. BOTOX� works to block the muscle from responding to the message; as a result, the muscle relaxes and the overlying skin remains unwrinkled and smooth.

What is treatment like and what results will I see?

BOTOX� is precisely injected, using a very fine needle, into the specific muscle that is contracting.  Treatment is effective, safe, and takes approximately 10 minutes.  The pain is a minimal "pin prick" and no anesthetic is required.  Immediately following treatment, you may resume regular activities!

Usually, the effect of BOTOX� is visible within 3 days.  Maximum benefits are reached between 10 to 14 days. Once the muscle relaxes and the skin softens, you will have a more relaxed and youthful appearance.  The effects of BOTOX� usually last 3 to 4 months. You will notice a gradual fading of its effects. After several treatments, the effects of BOTOX� may last 6 to 8 months.

The ideal look may be achieved by BOTOX� injections in conjunction with microdermabrasion treatments or laser skin rejuvenation.

Are there any possible side effects?

With BOTOX�, side effects, if any, are usually mild and temporary.  Botulinum toxins contain proteins and in some circumstances, the body will form antibodies to the protein.  If antibodies are formed, the effect would be a lesser response to therapy. Temporary bruising is sometimes experienced. This symptom resolves itself within 2 to 3 days.  In rare cases, there can be a slight drooping of an eyelid or asymmetry of expression.   If this should happen, return to see Dr. Connelly.

Collagen

Collagen injections are given to patients who wish to "fill in" lines and creases that appear on the face.  Collagen is one of the most frequently performed cosmetic procedures. As we age, our collagen layer depletes and the overlying skin creases and folds.  By replacing the collagen, especially in deeper lines and the nasal labial folds.  Collagen corrects frown lines, scars, crow's feet, forehead lines and smoker's lines around the mouth. Collagen is also used for enhancing lips.

How long does it last?

The effect last between two to six months, and the treatment is easily repeated.

Who are candidates for treatment?

If you have lines or creases on your face or wish to have fuller lips, you are more than likely a candidate.  You must have a skin test prior to treatment to determine whether or not you are a good candidate for the procedure.