Why do we get wrinkles?
Plastic, Aesthetic and Reconstructive Surgery Specialist
Like the muscles in our entire body, the striated muscles on our face contract and relax
voluntarily. In our daily life, we involuntarily use our facial muscles frequently when we
unconsciously look at the screen or squint our eyes on a sunny day, and as a result, the wrinkles on our face become evident. Frequent repetition of our mimics with advancing age causes these wrinkles to settle and deepen over time. With the increasing degree of wrinkles, the skin reflects less light, and the face has a more shadowy and tired appearance.
How does botulinum toxin work against wrinkles? When does the effect start and how long does it last?
One of the most preferred applications for wrinkle treatment today is botulinum toxin (BT) njections. The anti-wrinkle effect of BT was actually discovered by chance during its use for the treatment of strabismus. The BT molecule prevents the formation of wrinkles by temporarily paralyzing the muscles in the injected areas. The effect after the application is seen as early as the 4th day, and it is fully settled between 7 and 10 days. The duration of the effect usually varies between 3-6 months.
Which areas is BT applied to?
BT applications are most commonly performed on the forehead, crow’s feet and between the eyebrows. Thus, wrinkles in the forehead area and the appearance of crow’s feet are eliminated and the lines formed by frowning eyebrows are relieved. A softer appearance is obtained on the forehead and around the eyes. In addition to these areas, BT injections can be applied to prevent gummy smile and also the cobblestone appearance at the tip of the chin. In people with teeth clenching problems, the jaw area can be relieved by making BT injections into the chewing muscle called masseter. Another goal in masseter applications is to make the squared image in the lower face area more oval. Although rare, BT injections can be applied in combination with other treatment methods (mesotherapy, micro-needling or laser applications) to relieve the barcode lines on the upper lip.
Can BT injections cause unwanted effects on my face?
The results of botulinum toxin applications are related to the application sites and the amount of doses administered. It is possible to lift the eyebrow edges and achieve a more radiant appearance around the eyes with BT injections made to the appropriate and correct areas. On the other hand, high-dose applications in a large area cause freezing of all mimics, thus causing unnatural results. Again, applying high doses to the wrong points can lead to droopy eyelids. Since the smile muscles are affected in gummy smile applications, the person’s smile may change. In chin and upper lip applications, lip movements may also be affected in relation to the dose. Due to the temporary effect of BT, all side effects are also temporary and do not leave permanent damage.
What should I pay attention to after BT applications?
Redness, bruising and swelling may occur in the needle entry areas, as may be the case after each injection application. It is not recommended for the person to lean forward or take a lying position for one hour following the application. It is recommended not to massage or rub the face of the person on the day of application. Intense steam exposure should be avoided during the first three days (sauna, hammam, etc.).
ISIL AKGUN DEMIR, MD
Plastic, Aesthetic and Reconstructive Surgery Specialist
www.drisilakgundemir.com
