The Benefits of Botox®
Wrinkles and fine lines are two of the most common signs of facial aging and some of the most difficult to avoid. They happen naturally over time due to a variety of factors. Thankfully, there are effective treatment options that can both reduce the appearance of wrinkles and prevent them from becoming more prominent.
At his medical practice in Washington, D.C., Dr. Stephen B. Baker offers patient-tailored Botox® treatments to non-surgically rejuvenate the facial appearance.
What Is Botox®?
Botox® is an FDA-approved injectable medication that has been used for decades to reduce the appearance of facial wrinkles and fine lines. This minimally invasive treatment works to restore a more refreshed and youthful look by addressing the underlying cause of dynamic facial wrinkles.
While best known for its aesthetic applications, Botox® is also used to treat several medical conditions. Botox® injections can help patients find relief from excessive sweating (hyperhidrosis), migraines, teeth grinding, and TMJ.
How Does Botox® Reduce Wrinkles?
Botox® is intended to treat wrinkles and creases that form as a result of repetitive facial muscle contractions. Whenever you make a facial expression, squint, or even yawn, you engage your facial muscles and cause them to contract. When this happens, visible lines and creases are created in the overlying skin. Over time, these wrinkles become more pronounced and may be noticeable even when you are not actively contracting your muscles.
Botox® contains a purified form of a substance known as botulinum toxin type A. Dr. Baker injects Botox® into specific facial muscles, where it works to block nerve signals that are intended to stimulate muscle contractions. Preventing the muscles from contracting also prevents the corresponding wrinkles from forming or deepening.
Wrinkle Reduction with Botox®
Botox® can be used to release facial expression lines in many areas of the face. Dr. Baker often performs Botox® treatments to smooth away:
- Crow’s feet
- Forehead furrows
- Frown lines
- Chin wrinkles
- Lipstick lines
- Bunny lines
- Vertical neck bands
Why Patients Love Botox®
Botox® injections take only 30 minutes or so to perform. Treatment sessions involve minimal discomfort and no downtime.
Botox® results typically last for three to four months. Regular treatments can be scheduled to maintain your results and prevent wrinkles from becoming more severe over time.
Botox® can be combined with other non-surgical facial treatments to achieve more comprehensive improvements. Dr. Baker often pairs Botox® with dermal fillers. Dermal fillers can be injected to enhance specific facial features, replace lost volume, and give the skin a fuller, plumper look, making them a great complement to a Botox® wrinkle reduction treatment.
Schedule a Consultation Today
To find out if you are a good candidate for Botox® in Washington, D.C., contact our office today to schedule a consultation with Dr. Baker. During your consultation, Dr. Baker will speak with you about your treatment goals, review your medical history, and examine the area(s) of concern, so he can determine the optimal care strategy for you.