Lines around the eyes, or crow’s feet, are one of the first signs of aging, and while they can be endearing, you don’t have to live with them.
Below, we asked Dr. Pompeyo Chavez, our specialist at Soulage Wellness and Aesthetic Center, to explain why Botox is a great choice for smoothing out these lines and what the treatment entails.
Botox is a neurotoxin that has numerous benefits in small quantities, including treating wrinkles, migraines, neck spasms, excessive sweating, and an overactive bladder.
When injected, Botox blocks the nerve signals that tell muscles to contract. When these muscles no longer contract, wrinkles and fine lines begin to smooth out.
Botox is used for mild to moderate facial lines, but it can soften deep wrinkles too.
Botox treatments are quick and don’t involve any special preparations. Before you undergo the treatment, Dr. Chavez will examine your skin and review your medical history to ensure you’re a good candidate for Botox.
During the treatment, Dr. Chavez asks you to lay down and relax while he applies a thin layer of cream to numb the area surrounding your eyes. He will then use a thin needle to inject the Botox.
Depending on the results you desire, he can personalize the treatment by injecting more or less Botox. Some patients prefer a completely smooth result, whereas others want some movement to the corners of the eye and more subtle results. The choice is up to you.
The process takes about 30 minutes, after which you can return to your daily activities.
Side effects associated with Botox injections are minimal. You may experience some redness and swelling at the injection site, but you should be able to control these reactions by applying ice wrapped in a cloth onto the problem area.
You can expect to see a difference within three days after the treatment. The muscles should be fully relaxed and the lines should be completely smooth within two weeks.
Results last anywhere between four and six months, and you have the option to repeat the treatment after the muscles become active again.
Not everyone is a good candidate for Botox. Patients with an allergy to eggs (egg proteins are used in Botox injections) and patients who have neuromuscular conditions may need to look into other ways to soften the lines around their eyes.
Do you want to find out if you’re a good candidate for Botox? If so, contact us to schedule an appointment. Dr. Chavez can provide further information about the best treatment options for your cosmetic goals.
