Many of us know Botox as a wrinkle-relaxing injectable that smooths fine facial lines to create an ageless complexion. But fewer people are aware of the benefits of Botox beyond aesthetics. It’s created significant health improvements in the lives of countless patients.
Continue reading to learn about 4 unique applications of Botox injections in Greensboro and our treatment process at Restoration MedSpa. If you’re ready to speak with one of our expert injectors, visit our website, give us a call, or schedule your initial consultation.
What is Botox?
Traditionally, Botox injections relax facial muscles to diminish fine lines and wrinkles. These injections contain a purified botulinum toxin, which blocks nerve signals sent to the muscles and prevents them from contracting.
Though it may sound concerning to inject a toxin into your face, rest assured—Botox injections have been FDA-approved for cosmetic use for over 20 years.
Botox primarily treats dynamic wrinkles, which form from repeated facial expressions, including smiling, laughing, frowning, and squinting. At Restoration MedSpa, we use Botox injections in Greensboro to erase dynamic wrinkles in the following areas:
- Frown lines – Vertical lines that appear in between the eyebrows.
- Drooped brow – Defined wrinkles that form across the forehead.
- Crow’s feet – Wrinkles that form on the outer corner of each eye.
- Downturned smile – Lines that run from the corners of the mouth toward the chin.
- Undereye wrinkles – Deep creases that form beneath the eyes.
- Smoker’s lines – Vertical wrinkles that form around the upper lip.
We also often use Botox to prevent the future formation of wrinkles. Often referred to as “prejuvenation,” Botox can reduce the signs of aging before they even appear.
Alternative Botox Uses
Although Botox is famous for smoothing facial wrinkles and creating natural-looking enhancements, it can also treat a variety of health concerns. From migraines to hyperhidrosis, Botox injections can greatly improve a patient’s quality of life.
Here’s a brief overview of 4 unique Botox applications.
TMJ Disorders
Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders affect the jaw joints and surrounding muscles that contribute to movements like chewing and speaking. Researchers estimate that 5% to 20% of the population copes with TMJ disorder symptoms, including:
- Jaw pain and stiffness
- Toothache
- Difficulty opening and closing the mouth
- Jaw popping and clicking
- Migraines
- Earaches
- Tinnitus
There’s no singular cause of TMJ disorders. They can develop from a variety of factors, including jaw injuries, poor posture, and more.
Fortunately, we use Botox injections in Greensboro to treat TMJ disorders by relaxing the jaw muscles to reduce pain and improve the jaw’s range of motion.
While Botox cannot cure TMJ disorders, it can provide temporary relief and serve as a substitute for invasive treatments. We recommend reaching out to your primary care provider to determine if Botox can effectively suit your needs.
Migraines
Migraines are severe headaches that cause throbbing and pulsing head pain, making even the most basic tasks feel impossible. Most migraines last anywhere from a few hours to several days. These disruptive headaches also cause hypersensitivity to loud noises, bright lights, and strong odors.
Though chronic migraines vary from patient to patient, studies show that genetics may play a role in their occurrence. Other common triggers include:
- Stress
- Hormonal changes
- Irregular sleep patterns
- Overexertion
- Addictive substances
During a migraine, your body releases neurotransmitters, the molecules associated with pain. Botox interferes with the transmission of these signals to reduce pain where the nerves and muscles meet.
At Restoration MedSpa, we inject Botox into migraine trigger points, including the forehead, temples, back of the head, and neck. We can also customize your treatment plan to suit your pain levels and unique migraine type.
Hyperhidrosis
Hyperhidrosis is excessive sweating unrelated to hot temperatures or physical exertion. This level of sweat production soaks through clothing and drips off the hands, often causing embarrassment.
Most hyperhidrosis cases are caused by faulty nerve signals that create overactive sweat glands, often affecting the following areas:
- Palms of hands
- Soles of feet
- Underarms
- Face
- Back
- Chest
Secondary forms of hyperhidrosis are caused by conditions such as diabetes, thyroid problems, and nervous system disorders.
Once injected into the treatment area, Botox blocks the nerve impulses associated with sweating. It typically takes 3 to 4 days after treatment for sweat production to noticeably decrease.
Neck Spasms
Cervical dystonia occurs when the neck muscles contract involuntarily. These spasms are unpredictable, causing the head to twist to the sides. They can also create intense neck pain that extends to the shoulders.
The cause of cervical dystonia is largely unknown, but the condition primarily affects middle-aged women with a family history of the disorder. Research also links the condition to head, neck, and shoulder injuries.
Though it can’t cure cervical dystonia, we use Botox injections in Greensboro to soften neck spasms, reduce neck pain, and alleviate stiffness. We primarily recommend Botox to patients who have tried alternative treatment methods with minimal success. Be sure to contact your neurologist to determine if Botox can safely address your health concerns.
Who’s not a good candidate for Botox injections?
Though Botox injections have helped countless patients achieve their health and aesthetic goals, they may not work for everyone. We recommend avoiding Botox if you have a neurological condition such as myasthenia gravis, ALS, or Lambert-Eaton syndrome, which may increase your risk of serious side effects.
Be sure to reschedule your injection appointment if you have an active infection, rash, or sunburn in your desired treatment area. Consult your provider on alternative wrinkle-relaxing treatments if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
You may not be a good candidate for Botox injections if you have one of the following health conditions:
- Heart disease
- Diabetes
- Frequent UTIs
- Seizures
- Glaucoma
Botox Treatment Process at Restoration MedSpa
Ready to schedule your first of many Botox treatments, but aren’t sure what to expect? Our providers are eager to guide you through the treatment process, serving as a knowledgeable support system throughout your journey.
Step 1: Consultation
Before beginning your Botox treatment plan at Restoration MedSpa, you first schedule a comprehensive consultation with one of our knowledgeable injectors.
During this appointment, your injector listens carefully as you describe your specific health concerns and how your symptoms impact your day-to-day life. They also ask about your medical history, current medications, and any other treatments you’ve undergone previously.
If your injector believes you could benefit from our Botox injections in Greensboro, you may need to reach out to your regular care provider. This check-in helps verify that Botox aligns with your current treatment plan and minimizes your risk of developing complications.
From there, you and your injector work together to create your customized treatment plan.
Step 2: Preparations
In the days leading up to your injection appointment, our providers recommend discontinuing the use of blood thinners, including aspirin and ibuprofen. These medications increase your risk of bruising. We also suggest avoiding alcohol and tobacco products.
We recommend arriving at your appointment with clean skin that’s free of makeup, lotion, and other skincare products. Staying hydrated by drinking plenty of water can also help your body heal more effectively.
Step 3: Injection Appointment
At the start of your Botox appointment, your injector applies a topical numbing cream to your treatment area. They may also mark your injection site for precise application.
Next, your provider injects small amounts of Botox into your treatment area. You may feel a slight pinch as the needle goes underneath your skin, but most patients describe having a pain-free experience. Your injector may also use an ultrasound device to guide your injections, depending on your unique health concerns and treatment plan.
Most injection appointments take 15 to 30 minutes to complete, depending on whether your use is cosmetic or health-related.
Step 4: Recovery
Avoid touching, rubbing, and massaging your treatment area for at least 24 hours after your appointment. Keeping the treatment area elevated can also help prevent migration.
To speed up the healing process, continue drinking water and avoid alcohol after your appointment. Applying a sunscreen with a minimum 30 SPF can also protect your treatment area from the sun’s harmful rays.
Step 5: Results
Results timelines vary depending on the specific condition you’re treating with Botox injections in Greensboro. When used for aesthetic purposes, patients see noticeable wrinkle reduction within 2 to 4 days of treatment.
We recommend patients undergo additional maintenance treatments every 3 to 4 months to prolong their smooth skin, decreased sweat production, and diminished migraines. Your provider can help you determine how frequently you need Botox injections during your initial consultation.
Elevate Your Wellness at Restoration MedSpa
You deserve to put your health first. At Restoration MedSpa, we believe no patient in our community should have to suffer from migraines or feel embarrassed about sweaty hands. With simple solutions like Botox injections in Greensboro, prioritizing your wellness has never been easier.
Ready to learn how Botox injections can treat your health concerns? Visit our website or give us a call to schedule your initial consultation.
Interested in Botox for men? Head over to our blog to learn how Brotox can help you diminish facial wrinkles and enhance your profile.