FAQ - Botox® Cosmetic

Botox® Cosmetic is a procedure that can smooth frown lines on the face and neck for both men and women. It can soften lines and wrinkles that make you appear tired, upset or angry.

Botox® Cosmetic can help you maintain your appearance without surgery and no down time. It is the most popular physician-administered cosmetic procedure, with over one million patients receiving treatment.

What is Botox Cosmetic?

Botox® is a drug manufactured from a bacterial protein C. Botulinum (similar to penicillin).  Botox® has been thoroughly researched and clinically used for over 20 years. The amount of product used for cosmetic treatment is significantly smaller than it typically used to treat medical conditions.  Botox®  is approved by both the HPB (Health Protection Branch of Canada) and the FDA (US Federal Drug Administration).

Is it safe?

It has been used safely and successfully in ophthalmology for over 15 years and in wrinkle therapy for over 13 years.  The procedure was developed by two Canadian physicians.  Botox® is also used to treat migraine headaches, excessive sweating and several neurological problems.

How does Botox Cosmetic work?

Wrinkles and frown lines are the result of muscle activity. Dr. Van Aardt analyzes this activity and determines which muscles require treatment. Several tiny injections of Botox® Cosmetic are administered very precisely into the muscles that cause the wrinkles. It blocks nerve impulses from reaching that area and the muscles relax. As a result, the wrinkles overlying the muscles are smoothed away.

What areas can be treated?

The most common areas treated are the frown lines (glabella) between the brows, and the forehead, crow's feet. Dr. Van Aardt treats also the eyebrow area to lift the brow and open up the eyes, breast lift, bunny lines, dimpled chin, décolleté, drooping mouth corners, lip lines, neck bands and lines and square jaw.

What happens after treatment?

The treatment time varies depending on the procedure being done and you can resume normal activities right away. In 3 to 14 days, the wrinkles will appear softer and smoother.

Are there any side effects?

The possible risks are rare and not permanent. Occasionally, a small bruise lasting a few days may occur and can be covered with make-up. A mild, temporary headache may occur in some patients. Rarely, a temporary droopy brow or eyelid that may last a few weeks may occur.  However, Dr. Van Aardt may elect to correct this problem immediately by prescribing an ophthalmic drop to the affected eye.

Will my facial expressions look natural?

When Botox® treatments are done properly you will  always have a natural appearance and maintain facial expression. Most people will not notice that you had any treatment done. You will appear more relaxed and happier.

How long will the effects of Botox Cosmetic last?

The effects initially last about 3-4 months. When movement of the muscles is detected, it is time for another treatment. With repeated treatment, some results may last 4 to 6 months. If you discontinue treatment, your wrinkles will gradually return to the way they were before treatment. If you continue treatment at regular intervals the results of treatment will last up to 6 months.

Can Botox Cosmetic treatments be combine with any other treatments?

Absolutely! Botox Cosmetic treatments can be combined with many other anti-aging procedures to enhance their effectiveness and give longer-lasting results. Intense pulsed light treatments, fillers and the use of anti-aging products are all complementary procedures.

Is this treatments for everyone?

Men and women, from age 18 to 70, who would like a more relaxed appearance, enjoy the benefits of Botox Cosmetic. There are very few restrictions. Patients who are pregnant, nursing or have certain neurological disorders, such as ALS or myasthenia gravis, should not be treated.

How do I find out if I am a candidate for Botox Cosmetic?

Book a consultation with our Medical Aesthetician by phone or on-line. She will help identify your needs, determine how you may benefit from these treatments and address any further questions you may have.