What is Botox?

Botox is a form of a protein called botulinum toxin type A used for medical purposes. Botox inhibits muscle activity by temporarily paralysing the muscles. In aesthetic medicine, Botox is an injection method most commonly used in the treatment of wrinkles.

Botox injections are used to reduce and smooth dynamic wrinkles on the face. Dynamic wrinkles are wrinkles formed as a result of repetitive movements of facial muscles. It is especially effective in areas such as forehead lines, lines between the eyebrows (crow’s feet) and eyebrow lift.

During Botox injection, botulinum toxin is injected into specific muscles. The toxin prevents the movement of the muscles by temporarily blocking nerve impulses. In this way, the muscles relax and wrinkles are reduced. Botox treatment is usually quick and relatively painless and usually does not require local anaesthesia.

The effect of Botox injection usually becomes apparent within a few days to a week. The full effect is usually seen between 7 and 14 days. The Botox effect usually lasts between 3 and 6 months, but can vary from person to person. When the duration of the effect expires, botox treatment can be repeated.

In addition to facial wrinkles, Botox is also used to treat some health problems. These include excessive sweating (hyperhidrosis), migraine headache, muscle spasms and some eye diseases. In these cases, Botox is injected into the muscles to alleviate or control the symptoms.

Botox injections should be performed by a professional healthcare professional. It is important to discuss your expectations and health history with your doctor before the procedure. Although side effects of Botox are rare, side effects such as mild swelling, bruising or temporary muscle weakness may occur after the procedure. Your doctor will give you information about what you should pay attention to before and after the procedure.

What is the difference between Botox and fillers?

Botox and fillers are two different treatment methods used in aesthetic medicine. They differ in terms of function and application methods.

Here are the main differences between botox and fillers:

Botox:

1. Function: Botox prevents muscle activity by temporarily paralysing the muscles. It helps to remove dynamic wrinkles by reducing the movement of muscles.
2. Mechanism of Action: Botox works by injection of a protein called botulinum toxin type A. The toxin relaxes the muscles by blocking nerve impulses.
3. Application Areas: Botox is used in the treatment of dynamic wrinkles such as forehead lines, lines between the eyebrows (crow’s feet), eyebrow lift, wrinkles around the eyes. It is also used in the treatment of medical conditions such as excessive sweating (hyperhidrosis), migraine, muscle spasms.
4. Duration of Effect: The effect of Botox injection usually lasts between 3 and 6 months. The duration of effect may vary from person to person.

Fillers:

1. Function: Fillers are used to provide volume under the skin and fill wrinkles, sagging or scars. Fillers are used to restore areas of the face that have lost volume or to shape specific areas.
2. Mechanism of Action: Fillers usually work by injection of substances such as hyaluronic acid or calcium hydroxyapatite. These substances provide volume under the skin and allow the filler to shape the desired area.
3. Application Areas: Fillers are used for aesthetic purposes such as lip augmentation, cheek augmentation, correction of nasolabial lines, and clarification of jaw lines.
4. Duration of Effect: The effect of fillers usually lasts between 6 and 18 months. The duration of the effect of the filler may vary depending on the filler used, the application area and the metabolism of the person.

In summary, while Botox focuses on removing dynamic wrinkles by paralysing the muscles, fillers are used to provide volume under the skin and shape specific areas. The two treatment methods are applied for different aesthetic problems and show different duration of effect. It is important to consult a specialist to determine the right treatment method.

How long does the effect of Botox last?

The effect of Botox injections may vary from person to person and depending on the area of application. Generally, the effect of Botox lasts between 3 and 6 months. However, in some cases, the duration of effect may be shorter or longer. The effect of Botox decreases over time because the contraction ability of the injected muscles returns again.

The duration of the effect of Botox may vary depending on factors such as body metabolism, the dose of the injection and the characteristics of the treated area. After the first botox injection, the effect can usually last 3-4 months. In subsequent injections, the duration of effect may generally be longer. Regular botox injections can prolong the duration of the effect.
When the effect of Botox starts to decrease, it is possible to revitalise the results by having injections again. However, botox injections should be performed regularly in this process.

One point to keep in mind is that the effect of Botox may vary according to personal preferences and expectations. While some people want a longer lasting effect, some may seek a milder and natural result.

If you are considering Botox injection, it is important to consult a specialist. The specialist can give you more detailed information about pre- and post-application expectations, duration of effect and determine the most appropriate treatment plan for you.