What Really Is Botox?

Botox is a popular anti-aging injectable that smooths the appearance of facial wrinkles and fine lines. It is a neuromodulator that temporarily suppresses the facial muscle activity responsible for wrinkles and lines. ^[1] There are several neuromodulator agents like Botox including Dysport, Xeomin and Jeuveau. If you feel these pesky lines are revealing your age, a neuromodulator can be the ideal solution for you. Metamorphosis Plastic Surgery proudly offers this transformative treatment to stop these wrinkles so you can keep your signature youthful appearance. Dr. Daniel Markmann is a board-certified surgeon with extensive training and experience in breast, body, and facial procedures. As a result, Metamorphosis Plastic Surgery has earned a reputation as one of the most respected destinations for aesthetic enhancements in the Baltimore area. Reach our Ellicott City office directly at (410) 465-3600 to devise a treatment plan at your private consultation.

About

Unfortunately, the production of skin-nourishing collagen subsides as we get older. Once the underlying collagen fibers become compromised, evidence of aging becomes more apparent in the form of wrinkles and lines. This can be a vexing problem for many who want to look as great as they feel. Luckily, the power of Botox combats these signs of aging with a simple injectable session that can be performed in under 15 minutes. The principal component of Botox is Botulinum toxin type A, produced by a naturally occurring strain of bacteria that has been in use since 1989. Once injected into the muscle, the toxin diffuses into the tissue, eventually reaching the neuromuscular junction – where the nervous system communicates with the muscles. ^[2]

Acetylcholine is the chemical messenger that relays messages from nerve cells to the muscles. Botox injections merely stop the release of this chemical messenger in the neuromuscular junction and causes facial muscles to relax. ^[1][2] This, in turn, reduces wrinkles and fine lines within a matter of days. 

Benefits

Botox makes it easy for patients to fit a transformative treatment into their busy lives. It has helped millions of people worldwide address various age-related concerns, including glabellar lines (“11 lines”), forehead wrinkles, crow’s feet, and creases. Choosing a Botox treatment with Metamorphosis Plastic Surgery means:

• A noticeable gradual reduction in facial lines and wrinkles
• An easy, quick treatment that can be completed within minutes
• Preventing new wrinkles from forming
• No incisions, stitches, or lengthy recovery time
• Noticeable results within 7-14 days
• Botox/Neurotoxins can be used to minimize underarm sweating as well as treat migraine headaches.

Candidates

Men and women over 18 without certain medical conditions will see incredible benefits. The versatility of the treatment allows patients to experience both aesthetic and non-aesthetic advantages. Dr. Markmann and staff will explore your condition and aesthetic intentions more in-depth at your consultation. Botox treatments are great for:

• Those not yet ready to undergo surgery
• Patients wanting subtle, gradual results
• Patients without certain underlying conditions

Botox has also allowed patients to address specific medical concerns.  Botox can help patients get much-needed relief from:

• Sweating
• Uncontrollable muscle spasms
• Migraines and headaches
• Overactive bladder

Personal Consultation with Dr. Markmann

Over the years, Metamorphosis Plastic Surgery has built an excellent reputation in Ellicott City and the Baltimore area because of our devotion to creating an exceptional, tailored surgical experience for each patient. Dr. Daniel Markmann enjoys listening to patients’ goals and devising a plan of action to makeover their appearance and self-confidence.

Preparation

Even though preparing for your Botox treatment is minimal, completing a few pre-treatment steps beforehand will ensure optimal results. Patients will be asked to refrain from smoking, drinking alcohol, and taking ibuprofen and NSAIDs for 7 days prior to treatment. ^[3] Our office will tell you which medications need to be stopped before you come in for treatment. 

Patients can find more tips and a better perspective on the treatments we offer by reading our informative blog posts and following our social media. 

Procedure

Our nurse injector may numb the treatment area by applying a topical anesthetic to safeguard your comfort. Then, the Botox or other neurotoxin will be injected into facial muscles using a fine needle. The Botulinum toxin type A gradually works to temporarily stop muscle contractions responsible for dynamic lines. Typically, Botox is measured in units. The minimum dosage for treating glabellar wrinkles is 20 units.^[3] Male patients usually require more, often starting at 30 units. This is to account for the muscle mass difference in men and women. ^[2] After the treatment, patients can return to most normal activities, avoiding any strenuous activity for 24 hours.

Recovery

Results

You will see a gradual reduction of laugh lines, glabellar lines, and other unwanted wrinkles within 1-4 days. ^[2] These rewards are yours to keep for up to four months. Botox will slowly be metabolized by the body and allow for the gradual return of facial muscle contraction. However, patients who want to maintain these results can return to the office for a follow-up treatment every 3 to 4 months.  

Corresponding & Complementary Procedures 

Metamorphosis Plastic Surgery believes there is no “one-size for all” for cosmetic enhancements. Dr. Markmann may present other suitable options for your unique concerns at your consultation. They include: 

Injectable Fillers

Patients wanting to add more volume to their face, lips, or chin can rely on injectable fillers for a fresh, more youthful look. We offer patients the choice of various hyaluronic acid fillers as well as fat transfers to plump the skin and replace the volume lost over the years.

FaceTite

FaceTite is a minimally invasive treatment that removes fat and firms the skin with the help of radiofrequency-assisted liposuction (RFAL). The technology utilizes RF waves to tighten the skin as well as the fibrous tissue under the skin. Simultaneously, the heat generated stimulates collagen production and smoothes uneven contours in the chin, jowls, and forehead. 

Facelift

Facelifts are surgical enhancements that offer longer-lasting results of a fresh, younger face. Dr. Markmann gently removes excess skin and fat around the hairline to produce a youthful countenance. 

Cost of a Botox Treatment in Baltimore

FAQ

References

1. Nigam, P., & Nigam, A. (2010). Botulinum toxin. Indian Journal of Dermatology, 55(1), 8. https://doi.org/10.4103/0019-5154.60343
2. Satriyasa, B. K. (2019). Botulinum toxin (Botox) A for reducing the appearance of facial wrinkles: a literature review of clinical use and pharmacological aspect. Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, Volume 12(12), 223–228. https://doi.org/10.2147/ccid.s202919
3. Witmanowski, H., & Błochowiak, K. (2020). The whole truth about botulinum toxin – a review. Advances in Dermatology and Allergology/Postȩpy Dermatologii I Alergologii, 37(6), 853–861. https://doi.org/10.5114/ada.2019.82795