In our last conversation about Botox treatment, we
addressed 6 questions that we all have in our minds. In continuing that
discussion we shall delve deep into the subject.
Qn: Why would someone develop permanent lines and
permanent wrinkles?
A: Most permanent lines or wrinkles are the
result of expression lines gone untreated for years and decades! That's why I
recommend starting treatment early, and being regular and consistent with it.
Some permanent lines could be hereditary as if someone is born with it. But
it's rare.
Qn: If expression lines are knocked out by Botox,
won’t it affect day to day life, where you NEED to produce expressions as a
part of the conversation, and relay the animated message?
A: That is a valid question. I asked that
question to some of the actors that I treat, some working on Broadway shows as
well. They say, it won’t affect their career. For example, frown lines between
the eyebrows have no valid purpose. It only makes someone look older and
unattractive. One can look and act wise without having to flaunt the lines, in
my opinion!
Qn: Are there different ways to treat men and
women with Botox?
A: Yes, indeed! We don’t want men to get arched
outer eyebrows even unintentionally. Have you seen some pictures of Sylvestor
Stallone and Jack Nicholson after Botox? Similarly, one should never treat
women’s forehead alone without treating frown lines between the eyebrows.
Otherwise, the prominence of the muscles between the eyebrows will give a lion
face appearance, which may be okay for men but definitely not okay for any
woman.
Qn: We often see advertisements of Botox for $8-10
per unit? Is that even real and possible? What should the consumers know?
A: It seems very unrealistic. If the Botox
originated from the USA, it may be for just 15-20 units or less, just to lure
someone in for more and for other services. That happens. If it does not
originate from the USA, the potency and authenticity of the product is suspect.
If it is of foreign origin it would have passed several hands prior to reaching
the patient, and there is a serious degradation of the potency. The cold chain
has to be maintained throughout from the manufacturing process to the
final injection. When we order Botox, it comes shipped overnight on dry ice and
we freeze it right away until it is reconstituted, so the potency is
maintained.
Qn: What is your opinion about Botox parties?
A: My understanding is, Botox parties are okay
as long as they are conducted in a medical office setting, where the
patient is first seen and assessed, pictures taken, intake and consent forms
are documented and no alcohol or similar is offered prior to the procedure
itself. But it is unethical and illegal, at least in the USA, to have Botox or
Filler injection parties in someone’s house or under the premises of an
unrelated business. Botox is an injectable prescription drug, and injecting it
on anyone is the practice of medicine. The same is true of all dermal fillers.
Qn: Some people ask, cancer patients can get
chemotherapy at home by homecare health professionals, but why not Botox
parties?
A: This is often used to justify injectable
parties outside a medical office setting. But when someone gets an I.V.
chemotherapy for example or other medication on a regular basis, they have
already been assessed prior by a specialist, initial doses of medication are
already given in a controlled healthcare setting, and then they will continue
these medications at home via a semi-permanent I.V. port by a healthcare
professional. They will also get regular medical assessments from time to time.
The experts agree that this can not be compared to a Botox party.
Qn: Are there any issues with traveling health
care professionals visiting multiple locations sometimes on the same day, like
setting up a tent type of thing, taking with them and administering
Botox?
A: Since the potency of the
Botox is affected if there is no proper handling and cooling of the product in
between locations, patients might experience that their Botox treatment is not
being as effective, and more than likely they will be disappointed without
getting desirable results or results might last for a very short period.
