Neuromodulators - Botox® & Dysport
What are Neuromodulators?
Neuromodulators are medications that can be used cosmetically. Botox® cosmetic, and Dysport are commonly used brands of neuromodulators.
Dr. Radke would be happy to provide more information about the mechanism of action and effects of neuromodulators as well as the indications, contraindications and side effects.
Botox® therapeutic can be used to treat a condition know as hyperhydrosis a common condition that causes excessive sweating. Speak to Dr. Radke to determine if you could benefit from this treatment.
What areas can be treated?
Neuromodulators can be used to treat many common concerns including:
- Frown lines between eyebrows
- Forehead lines
- Crow’s feet
- Vertical lip lines
- Downward turning mouth
- Wrinkled/dimpled chin
- Nose “bunny lines”
- Excessive sweating in armpits, and other areas (hyperhidrosis)
Are they safe? Are there any side effects?
Neuromodulators have been used for over 20 years and have undergone extensive research. There are however side effects that will be discussed by Dr. Radke during your consultation to ensure you are an appropriate candidate for treatment. Excellent technique is critical to minimize the risk of side effects.
Dr. Radke pride's himself on maintaining a natural appearance while obtaining your desired outcome. He will determine the right dose and injection technique for you. Neuromodulators only act upon the specific area being treated, so that the other elements of your facial expression remain active. It has no effect on the sensory nerves, so you will still have normal feeling in the treated areas.
Women who are pregnant, actively trying to conceive a pregnancy, or breastfeeding cannot receive Botox.
All if this will be discussed further during your consultation.
How Long Before I See Results? How Long Does It Last?
Typically you will start noticing results in 3-4 days, however it can take up to 2 weeks to see final results. Results are not permanent and will last an average of 3-5 months. After several treatments, the effects of treatment may begin to last longer and less units may be required.
When neuromodulators wear off and you stop receiving treatments, you will simply return to the state you started. You will never look worse! If you started using neuromodulators at a younger age and prevented static lines from forming, your skin will just be that much more relaxed looking than had you let those lines form, even if you stop treatment. The "aging clock" will simply resume as normal.
How Long Does The Procedure Take? Does It Hurt?
Generally, after the consultation, the procedure itself only takes 15-30 minutes, sometimes less. There is no downtime, you can do it during your lunch break and no one would know!
A tiny amount of the medication is injected very precisely into each area treated using a very fine needle (the same or smaller than insulin needles used by diabetics). Most patients say it feels like a little pinch.
How Much Does It Cost?
Dr. Radke charges $10 per unit. The amount of units needed depends on the areas being treated and individual goals and anatomy of the patient.
Botox treatment for excessive sweating (hyperhydrosis) is covered by most insurance plans. Dr. Radke may also be able to secure coverage of the first treatment from the manufacturer.
This will be discussed in further detail during your consultation.
How do I prepare for my appointment?
In order to minimize risk of bruising/bleeding it is best to avoid alcohol, advil, aspirin or any other blood thinning medications before treatment. If you are unsure about a specific medication or whether it is safe to stop taking, be sure to check with our team who can advise you on how to proceed.
When you book an appointment with Dr Radke he will provide you with detailed instructions on preparing for your appointment.
What do I need to do after my treatment?
We advise our patients after treatment with a neuromodulator to: “Exercise” the muscle for the first hour following treatment this is done by simply making the faces that cause the lines. Patients can do this a couple of times throughout that first hour. Keep head upright for 3 hours after treatment (this can include bending forward or lying down). Avoid, alcohol, advil, aspirin & physical activity for the first 24 hours after injection. Do not rub the area for the first 24 hours.