Many of our Ann Arbor Botox patients come to our office for the first time because they are seeing signs of aging that are inconsistent with how old they feel. They are interested in looking better through safe, simple, and non-invasive ways. The top concerns of new Botox patients are:
- Is the procedure safe? (Yes)
- How much will the procedure cost? (Between $250 and $500)
- What is the recovery time if any? (None — you can have it done on a lunch hour)
- Will I look funny? (More on how to avoid this later)
When we are seeing new cosmetic surgery patients for a “Botox consultation,” we really see that patient as asking us what simple cost-effective things they can do to look younger, fresher, and less tired. This first consultation is the perfect time to talk about simple skincare regimens (e.g., retinoic acid and sunblock), fillers (Juvederm to fill hollows under the eyes, folds around the mouth, liquid facelifts, etc.), and, of course, Botox to relax — not freeze — the wrinkles between the eyebrows, in the forehead, and crow’s feet. Then we can develop a plan that reflects the patient’s goals and respects their budget.
Our new Michigan Botox patients have seen Botox gone bad in tabloids and on networks like E! and frankly they are a bit scared of Botox. If you research Botox complications, you will see it stated that the number one issue is the chance of your eyelid drooping (which is about 1% in expert hands and can be treated with eyedrops). In reality, an over-arched eyebrow is the most common issue, although it is not considered a medical complication by strict definitions. I consider it a complication because it doesn’t look good! You may have seen this in a neighbor, on celebrities (Kate Gosselin — sorry Kate!), or on friends. This typically happens when patients bounce from provider to provider without allowing a single surgeon to get to know their musculature. An over-arched eyebrow really is not the plastic surgeon’s fault and can happen to any provider — unless it keeps occurring! It also can be helped fairly easily with some additional micro injections of Botox placed very precisely.
Dysport
Dysport is abobotulinumtoxinA, a commercial form of botulinum toxin that causes local muscle relaxation where it is applied. The effect of Dysport lasts between 6 and 18 months depending on the patient and the amount applied, although it may be necessary to repeat the treatment session according to the desired outcome.