Neuromodulators

What are Neuromodulators?

Neuromodulators are injectable forms of botulinum toxin type A. Scientists discovered that small, diluted amounts of this toxin could cause muscle paralysis when injected directly into the muscle. When the amount is small enough, it causes controlled weakening of the muscle, not full-blown muscle paralysis. By relaxing the facial muscles, botulinum toxin injectables can treat and prevent the formation of dynamic wrinkles caused by repeated facial movements or muscle movement and creasing of the overlying skin. At Paquet Facial Plastic Surgery, we offer two types of neuromodulators: Botox and Dysport.

The FDA originally approved BOTOX in the latter half of the 1980s for treating certain types of conditions caused by muscle spasms, such as dystonia (involuntary muscle contractions), strabismus (crossed eyes or lazy eye), spasmodic torticollis (uncontrolled neck movement), and blepharospasm (uncontrollable blinking). In 2002, the FDA approved BOTOX for the treatment of moderate to severe frown lines (glabellar lines) between the eyebrows. Today, we use BOTOX to treat not only frown lines but many other areas of the face, including the forehead and the crow’s feet at the corners of the eye.

Dysport is a newer type of injectable with a looser formula made up of smaller particles. This allows the product to spread more easily across larger areas like the forehead. Like Botox, it can be used to treat fine lines and wrinkles on many areas of the face.

Am I a Candidate for Neuromodulators?

Good candidates for BOTOX or Dysport are healthy individuals who are bothered by early signs of aging. Those with underlying health conditions, like a history of bleeding disorders, or those taking blood-thinning medications should inform Dr. Paquet before treatment, since they may not be suitable candidates. Smokers must avoid nicotine use for a few days before and after the procedure to minimize swelling, bruising, and bleeding. Patients must not have a history of allergic reactions to botulinum toxin or other ingredients in the Botox and Dysport formulas. Patients who are pregnant or breastfeeding and those with an active skin infection or active acne must wait to receive treatment. 

BOTOX has many different uses and, with the experience of a knowledgeable injector, you can achieve a more refreshed and youthful look. Though similar to BOTOX, Dysport requires experience to use properly because it disperses more widely than BOTOX when injected. While this is advantageous when treating broader areas of small wrinkles, such as frown lines on the forehead, injections around the eyes for crow’s feet could lead to increased occurrence of ptosis (drooping eyelid) if injected improperly. During your consultation with Dr. Paquet, you can determine the right product for your cosmetic needs.

Benefits of Neuromodulators

Neuromodulators are a great option for patients who want to address fine lines and wrinkles, one of the earliest signs of aging. Frown lines, crow’s feet at the corners of the eyes, marionette lines around the mouth, vertical lip lines, bunny lines on the nose, and other types of dynamic wrinkles can all be smoothed with neuromodulators. Many patients enjoy natural-looking results that refresh their youthful appearance under the expert care of Dr. Paquet and our team.

Before Your Neuromodulator Procedure

Before neuromodulator injections, patients who are smokers must stop smoking for a few days, since nicotine can increase the risk of bleeding and worsen swelling and bruising, slowing the healing process. Alcohol consumption should also be avoided for 24 hours prior. To prevent skin sensitivity, avoid waxing and tweezing the treatment area for a few days before your injections.

On the day of your appointment, arrive with a clean face free of makeup and lotions. Patients should be well-hydrated to maximize the effectiveness of the neuromodulator treatment and reduce the risks of side effects.

The Neuromodulator Procedure

BOTOX and Dysport injections can be performed in as little as 15 minutes or up to 45 minutes, depending on the size of the treatment area. To begin, the treatment area will be cleansed and sterilized. Then, the product is prepared and carefully injected into specific facial muscles using a fine needle. Most patients can tolerate the injections without a numbing agent, but it can be provided if needed. Once complete, you can return to your daily schedule.

After Your Neuromodulator Procedure

You’ll be given detailed aftercare instructions on avoiding exercise, bending over, and lying down after your procedure. You may have some residual redness and mild swelling and bruising but this subsides within a few hours to a few days after treatment. For the first 48 hours, make sure to avoid rubbing or massaging the area and take care when washing your face or applying products. Avoid sun exposure 

Results from injections are generally visible within a few days after treatment and typically last 3-4 months. Some patients can see noticeable improvement for up to six months. After that time, your muscles will once again begin to contract, and you will start to see some of the lines and wrinkles reappear. They will likely be less prominent than they were before, but Dr. Paquet can touch up each area with additional injections as needed to keep your wrinkles from reappearing.

Frequently Asked Questions about Neuromodulators