The Nitty Gritty on Neurotoxins

Many have heard about injectable products like Botox and Dysport, but what are they exactly? 

Botox and similar products are neurotoxins, which block the transmission of signals from the nerves to the muscles. On an aesthetic level, neurotoxins can reduce muscle movement to slow down or reduce wrinkle formation.  Neurotoxins may also be used to reduce the occurrence of migraines in vulnerable patients.

Neurotoxins have proven to be safe when injected appropriately.  Products like Botox are derived from bacteria in a sterile lab setting where consumer safety is a high priority. The most common side-effect is bruising or tenderness at the injection site.  However, it is not recommended to treat with a neurotoxin over an area that displays signs of irritation or infection.  

Common treatment areas for neurotoxins can include the face, such as, forehead, lip area, eye area, the jaw area, and the neck area. Treatments should be done consistently approximately every four to five months. On average, patients get about three treatments per year. 

Common treatment areas for neurotoxins can include the face, such as, forehead, lip area, eye area, the jaw area, and the neck area. Treatments should be done consistently approximately every four to five months. On average, patients get about three treatments per year. 

After a consultation and the areas of treatment are discussed and agreed upon Dr. Malek will administer the injection. After the treatment there may be some redness, tenderness and/or bruising. 

Many patients get confused regarding the difference between neurotoxins and fillers. Neurotoxins slow or prevent the wrinkling process if done consistently. It is never too late to start treating with neurotoxins because they can slow the process down or soften wrinkles that may be present over time if patients are consistently coming back for treatments.  

If someone has wrinkles that cannot be softened with neurotoxins, there are other modalities that can be used such as lasers. Injectable fillers, typically containing hyaluronic acid, are used to fill areas that lack volume.  Where neurotoxins relax the muscles and soften wrinkles, injectable fillers add volume and fill depressions, which are sometimes jokingly called the “potholes” of the face.   

Here at The Centre for Cosmetic Surgery & Medicine, Dr. Malek enjoys performing the injectable treatments.  He enjoys taking the one-on-one interaction as time to get to know the patients on a personal level and discuss topics of interest outside of cosmetics.  Dr. Malek typically uses Botox by Allergan because it was the first neurotoxin available and shows promising results with long-term use, reliability, and safety.  However, Dr. Malek will utilize different neurotoxins, such as Dysport and Xeomin, upon patient request.  

Using Botox and some other neurotoxins can provide relief and reduction of the signs of aging if done correctly.  They provide quick, consistent results that can be maintained if patients visit regularly.

For more information on Botox, please visit https://www.botoxcosmetic.com/.

For more information on Xeomin, please visit https://www.xeomin.com/ 

For more information on Dysport, please visit https://www.dysportusa.com/

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To begin working with Dr. Malek to create your customized treatment plan, call the location closest to you!

1 Centurian Drive Newark, Delaware 19713

(302) 260-8231

17644 Coastal Highway, Lewes, DE 19958

(302) 313-0346