3800 Reservoir Rd, 1st Floor Gorman
Washington, DC 20007
6862 Elm St, Suite 800B
McLean, VA 22101
3800 Reservoir Rd, 1st Floor Gorman
Washington, DC 20007
6862 Elm St, Suite 800B
McLean, VA 22101
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“Chemodenervation” is a term frequently used to describe the use of Botulinum Toxin to relax muscles and therefore reduce wrinkles. Botulinum Toxin is a natural bacteria produced protein neurotoxin called “Clostridium Botulinum.”
The clinical evaluation involves the assessment of the area of concern and potential options for treatment. Dr. Reilly will work with you to create a plan that aligns your goals with potential surgical treatments based on your specific desires.
Generally, this procedure renders substantial improvements in the appearance of aged skin.
The botulinum toxin is mixed up into solution and then injected in small amounts into the superficial muscles of the face, immediately beneath the skin. Most often, the areas injected are the crow’s feet (around the eyes), frown lines (between the eyes), and forehead creases. Occasionally, additional treatments can be done elsewhere on the face, but this is not common.
Most patients go back to work immediately after this procedure. Bruising is rare, and there is rarely a need for any downtime. The effects typically set in within about 72 hours, and are fully realized by 7 days. There is no restriction on physical activity after getting a Botox injection.
Background
The gradual development of facial wrinkles, whether fine surface lines or deeper creases and folds, is the classic early sign of accumulated skin damage and inevitable aging. Premature aging and wrinkling of the skin may be accelerated by excessive exposure to the sun and other elements, overactive facial expression muscles, the frequent use of tobacco products, poor nutrition, or skin disorders. Botox can be used to relax these muscles, thereby alleviating the associated wrinkles on the skin surface.
In the vast majority of patients, the desired aesthetic result is readily achieved. However, the possible complications of Botox injection include but are not limited to the following:
Infection, bruising, swelling, scarring, pain, numbness, displeasure with the cosmetic outcome, and allergic or other negative reactions to one or more of the medications or substances used in the procedure.
There are various techniques to remedy deep forehead creases, crow’s feet, and other facial wrinkles. Dr. Reilly will discuss with you your specific concerns and make his recommendations for your desired effect.
Neurotoxins, including Botox™, are produced from the bacteria Clostridium botulinum, which is sterilized and purified in the laboratory. These injections prevent nerve impulses from traveling to facial muscles by binding to the nerve endings of the muscle. The muscles are subsequently weakened, or paralyzed, to reduce previous creasing and prevent new wrinkles.
It may take several days for you to notice the effects of a Botox injection, and the results typically last three to four months. Treatment can be repeated as desired.
Most patients do not need any downtime or care after this procedure. If there is discomfort, over the counter pain medications and/or ice packs can be a great help. The effects of the Botox should be visible by 7 days, and occasionally there is a need to do a small additional amount in order to attain an optimal result.
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Dr. Michael Reilly is double board-certified by the American Board of Otolaryngology--Head & Neck Surgery and The American Board of Facial Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery. He specializes in facial plastic surgery and Rhinoplasty.
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