Neuromodulators for Wrinkle Relaxation
Neuromodulators have several different trade names. Dr. Feeman and his trained injection nurse mainly use Botox and Xeomin. These injectables are very helpful for patients seeking improvement in mimetic wrinkles. Mimetic wrinkles are those that we see as we move our faces during the day. The most common areas that are treated are the forehead, the wrinkles between our brow (the 11’s), and crow’s feet. Other areas are the chin, the corner of the mouth, and the upper lip.
Forehead treatment is also called the “neuromodulator brow lift”, but you can substitute Botox or Xeomin for neuromodulator. Proper treatment of the forehead area is not as easy as the average user may think. The injections must have the correct concentration of the medications, must be at the correct depth, and have the right dosage to enhance forehead appearance and not a detriment. Improper treatment lowers the brows (makes one look older) or creates the “Spock” look (a Star Trek character). Dr. Freeman and his injection nurse know how to treat the forehead to avoid these issues.
The chin is treated to smooth out the dimpling of the chin with expression. The upper lip can be treated for those patients that have a hyperactive orbicularis oris (the muscle that causes vertical wrinkles of the upper lip). The depressor anguli oris muscle (muscle t pulls down the corner of the lips) can also be treated to relax the corners of the lips such that they are not as downturned. Again, the injections must have the correct concentration of the medications, must be at the correct depth, and have the right dosage.
both neuromodulators, Botox or Xeomin are very safe and effective. Although the treatments in general are safe, as with any medications there are rare risks that will be thoroughly reviewed with you before each treatment. Occasionally, patients may have a small bruise. Most of Dr. Freeman’s and his injection nurse’s patients come in for treatment twice a year, efficacy can vary from patient to patient.
Dr. Freeman mainly treats established patients however his certified nurse whom he personally trained and supervises is available at your convenience. To learn more about the non-surgical procedures Dr. Freeman and his staff performs, you can request your consultation online to receive $25 off your consultation fee or call his office at (704) 543-1110.
Patients who choose Dr. Freeman at The Center for Facial Plastic and Laser Surgery are choosing a physician who has specialized in lasers and facial cosmetic procedures since 1988.
Candidates for Neuromodulators
Almost anyone with dynamic wrinkles (those formed because of repeated facial muscle movement) is a candidate. However, patients who are pregnant, breastfeeding, or who have a neurological disease should not use these medications. For some lines on the lower face, you may be a better candidate for injectable fillers like RADIESSE® and Restylane®. Be sure to discuss any health conditions during your consultation.
The Procedure
A small amount of the medication is injected into the muscles that are responsible for creating wrinkles. It effectively weakens the muscles that produce wrinkles, causing lines to diminish dramatically or disappear altogether. Keep in mind that it may take a few days to notice the wrinkle-smoothing effect after the injection.
The injections are quick and do not require an anesthetic, and the results can last up to 6 months. After that, you may return for a follow-up injection. Patients often report that, after several treatments, the results appear to last longer than their original results.
