Neuromodulators – Botox and Dysport

A neuromodulator is an injectable treatment that smooths and reduces the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines in the face. These formulations work by temporarily relaxing the muscles responsible for causing facial wrinkles, resulting in a smoother and more youthful appearance. Two of the most popular neuromodulators used for cosmetic rejuvenation are Botox and Dysport- both of which contain the active ingredient botulinum toxin, a byproduct of the bacteria called Clostridium botulinum. When administered in small amounts by an expert injector, it is a simple and quick procedure that does not require downtime. 

Dr. Amit Rajguru and his team at Evolved Medical in Walnut Creek, CA  prioritize patient safety, satisfaction, and natural-looking results. With their expertise in administering neuromodulators, they can help you achieve a refreshed and rejuvenated appearance without the need for surgery. 

Start your Botox or Dysport journey today by calling our office at (925) 433-8444 or reach out to us via our contact form. We will be happy to answer all of your questions about the procedure itself, aftercare instructions, and the results you should expect. 

About Neuromodulators 

Neuromodulators alter muscle contractions by intercepting the nerve signals between facial muscles, effectively blocking a neurotransmitter called acetylcholine. Once these signals are blocked, it is normal for certain muscles to temporarily relax. Botox and Dysport injectors are incredibly knowledgeable on how each muscle responds to the presence of botulinum toxin, allowing them to create the most natural-looking, aesthetically pleasing results possible. 

Dynamic Wrinkles vs. Static Wrinkles

Stopping muscle contraction prevents the formation of dynamic wrinkles that appear temporarily as a result of facial expressions. When you are upset, you may display “11” lines, also called glabellar lines; if you smile, your “crow’s feet” next to your eyes may show up. Over time and repetition of these expressions, these dynamic wrinkles become static wrinkles that stay permanently on the face. With neuromodulators, you can treat the root cause of static lines and prevent more from developing. They’ve been specifically designed for these cosmetic concerns: frown lines, forehead lines (both vertical and horizontal), crow’s feet, and vertical neck banding. 

Medical Uses for Botulinum Toxin 

Although neuromodulators are most commonly known for their cosmetic uses, their active ingredient has been shown to be a beneficial treatment for a wide variety of medical conditions. Botulinum toxin has been used in the treatment of strabismus (a condition characterized by poor eye control), hyperhidrosis (excessive sweating), urinary incontinence, muscle spasms, and chronic migraines. ⁽¹⁾  Since first being researched in 1970, doctors now have a vast knowledge of this protein and how to best utilize it without causing negative effects. 

Are Botox and Dysport the Same?

Although they share the same basic ingredient, they are different brands that undergo different purification processes. While Botox lasts 3 to 4 months, Dysport can last up to 5 months. Studies have shown that its increased longevity may be due to different dosage recommendations for each and Dysport’s ability to spread farther throughout the face. ⁽²⁾

Candidates for Injectable Neuromodulators

Ideal candidates for Botox and Dysport are healthy adults who are looking to prevent or eliminate wrinkles that contribute to an older appearance. It is not recommended to undergo treatment while you are pregnant or breastfeeding. If you have active acne or another rash/ infection near your neuromodulator treatment area, you may require another treatment that brings your skin to optimal health prior to considering a neuromodulator. Finally, people with neuromuscular diseases like myasthenia gravis will not respond well to these injections. 

Personal Consultation

At Evolved Medical in Walnut Creek, CA, we offer personalized consultations for patients interested in neuromodulator treatments. During your consultation, we will take the time to understand your specific aesthetic goals. We will discuss your medical history and evaluate your facial structure and skin condition to determine the most appropriate neuromodulator treatment for you. If you feel you can benefit from Botox or Dysport, please call our practice at (925) 433-8444 or provide us with more information regarding your concern through our contact page. 

Preparation

Prior to any neuromodulator or dermal filler injection session, your injector will thoroughly review your current medications and supplements and make adjustments where necessary. They will require that you stop taking blood thinners about 1 week prior to your appointment to reduce the likelihood of bruising or bleeding during your recovery. On the day of your neuromodulator treatment, please come to the office without make-up so that your injector will be able to cleanse your skin easily. 

Procedure Steps 

Although Botox and Dysport injections may seem straightforward, there is strategy and skill involved in the act of administering them. After your face is completely cleansed, your injector will require that you make facial expressions in order for them to identify your dynamic wrinkles and the location of each facial muscle. 

Your injector will use a marker to map out where each injection will be placed precisely. For the elimination of crow’s feet, for example, they will target the orbicularis oculi muscle that surrounds each eye. To treat “11 lines”, they will administer the injections around the glabellar complex between the eyebrows. Since the glabellar complex is made up of depressor muscles that move down with each contraction, Botox or Dysport will prompt it to gently elevate and lift, effectively removing these frown lines. Since the frontalis (forehead muscle) is an elevator muscle, our injectors are careful to disperse the neuromodulator very superficially and sparingly; over-injecting this area can cause the brows and forehead to move downward. 

Many patients find neuromodulator sessions comfortable due to the use of ultra-fine needles. If you are concerned about this aspect of the procedure, you may get a topical numbing cream to mitigate discomfort further. While the entire procedure takes only about 20 minutes or less, you should remember to follow your aftercare instructions carefully to get the best long-term results possible. 

Recovery and Results 

After Botox or Dysport injections, it’s normal to see some redness and swelling. During this time, it’s important that you avoid lying down or lowering your head for 6 hours post-procedure. This will ensure that the neuromodulator doesn’t spread to another facial muscle and cause a different aesthetic outcome. 

For the next 24 hours, you should be mindful to avoid exercising, touching your face, and showering. Within 3 to 5 days, the medication will gradually work to relax unwanted wrinkles and lines. You should consult your injector on beginning an anti-aging skincare routine that is customized to your needs and prevents the formation of wrinkles. For the next 3 to 6 months, depending on your formulation and your own metabolism, you will see a noticeable improvement in the smoothness and texture of your skin. Botox and Dysport won’t impede your ability to be expressive, but they will inhibit the formation of wrinkles that result from facial expressions. 

Corresponding & Complementary Treatments

Dermal Fillers 

Evolved Medical offers popular hyaluronic acid-based fillers that volumize, plump, and rejuvenate areas of the face. We offer FDA-approved fillers, Juvéderm and Restylane, that correct signs of aging through hyaluronic acid’s ability to provide more hydration and structure to the dermis layer of the skin. ⁽³⁾ These dermal fillers also stimulate the fibroblast cells in this part of the skin, boosting more production of collagen and elastin fibers that construct more youthful skin. If you are looking to revive the health of your skin while also treating areas of lost volume, we can help you find the right dermal filler for your unique features. 

BBL Photofacial 

BroadBand Light (BBL) is a light therapy that reduces age/liver spots, large pores, redness, and fine lines. It does not emit a concentrated wavelength of light like a laser, so it is not as harsh on the skin, and the downtime is minimal. The light targets and removes irregular pigment chromophores– mostly hemoglobin and melanin. BBL promotes even skin tone and stimulates a wound-healing process, producing more collagen and elastin production and cellular regeneration. 

Cost of Botox in Walnut Creek

At Evolved Medical, we prioritize transparency and ensure our patients receive an accurate cost estimate during the consultation process. Our goal is to empower you to make informed decisions about your aesthetic procedures. 

If you are seeking anti-aging solutions, hormone therapies, or sexual wellness treatments, look no further than Dr. Amit Rajguru located in Walnut Creek. You can submit your request for a consultation through our contact page or contact us today at (925) 433-8444 to schedule your consultation and begin your transformative journey.

References

1. Padda IS, Tadi P. Botulinum Toxin. PubMed. Published 2022. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK557387/#:~:text=Botulinum%20toxin%20is%20a%20medication 
2. Bentivoglio AR, Fasano A, Ialongo T, Soleti F, Lo Fermo S, Albanese A. Outcome predictors, efficacy and safety of Botox and Dysport in the long-term treatment of hemifacial spasm. European Journal of Neurology. 2009;16(3):392-398. doi:https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1468-1331.2008.02507.x 
3. Brandt FS, Cazzaniga A. Hyaluronic acid gel fillers in the management of facial aging. Clin Interv Aging. 2008;3(1):153-159. doi:10.2147/cia.s2135