Breast augmentation remains the most sought-after cosmetic surgery procedure; however, it did see a recent 7% decline. So, if the most popular procedure declined, how is it that in 2013 an overall growth of cosmetic procedures occurred? Interestingly, the answer is Botox.
Botox (onabotulinumtoxinA), fillers, and chemical peels are considered the most popular procedures, and have fueled a rise in growth in the cosmetic surgery industry for three consecutive years. According to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, 14.6 million procedures were performed in 2012—a 5% increase since 2011. Botox treatments rose 8% to 6.1 million procedures. Other skin smoothing procedures including microdermabrasion and fillers also saw an increase.
As can be seen from these numbers, Botox is considered the most popular cosmetic procedure. Botox can effectively reduce wrinkles and a less-than-youthful appearance and create a more rested appearance.
Botox treatments can help improve the appearance of:
- Smile lines
- Crow’s feet
- Nose to mouth laugh lines
- Lines between the eyebrows
- Worry lines in the forehead
People using Botox understand that the statement “her face is puffy, so she must have had too much Botox”, is untrue. Botox immobilizes the muscles; it does not create the look of swollen lips or cheeks. Botox targets muscles associated with wrinkles and relaxes them to provide a younger look.
Botox is administered using a series of small injections, and the entire procedure takes approximately 10 to 15 minutes. Most people will see an almost immediate result within three to five days. However, this effect will reduce over time, so continued injections are needed to maintain the look.
Botox injections only last between six months to a year; however, treatments are safe over long periods of time. In fact, regular treatments can help the muscles atrophy due to the lack of use, which often makes it possible to use a lower dosage to achieve the same effects.
While Botox is considered a non-invasive treatment, it should still only be administered by a cosmetic surgeon. Recently, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration notified surgeons throughout the country about unregulated Botox products from illegitimate distributors. These “knockoff” injections may be less expensive; they have not undergone the same rigid scrutiny of FDA-approved products. Unfortunately, these unregulated products can often cause serious side effects and complications. This is why patients should always seek Botox treatments from trusted, board-certified physicians.
