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FALL 2021: 49
“The longer it’s been around, the safer
we know it is,” Johnson said.
Originally developed for neurology,
Botox is a staple in aesthetics and used
by more than 7 million people a year,
according to the American Board of
Cosmetic Surgery.
“As long as it is in the hands of a
certified and well-trained injector, I
think that this medicine is a very safe
one,” Johnson said.
The more you use it, the better Botox
performs.
“The first few treatments require more
of the medication than subsequent
treatments, because Botox over time
helps to relax the muscles and over
time it lasts longer,” Johnson explained.
“I have some patients who instead of
needing Botox every three months can
go every six months. Some can even go a
little longer.”
Research has noted that Botox can last
up to a year, but only after repetitive
treatments. It will last longer if you chill
out and not grimace as much. Exercise,
while great for the body, is not so good
for Botox.
“Research has shown working out
actually metabolizes the Botox faster, so
it goes away quicker,” she said.
“Although I’m a proponent of exercise,
I encourage patients not to exercise at
least the first few days after a Botox
AMELIA HAMPSHIRE
Dr. Emran Imami, right, recommends a protein-rich platelet treatment for his client at Imami Skin & Cosmetic
Center in Melbourne, Mary Lou Dryer. It is helpful for clients who cannot tolerate anesthesia.
injection. It’s important to reach a happy
medium to where you’re not metabolizing
your Botox really quickly, but you’re still
maintaining a healthy lifestyle.’”
Johnson also noted that zinc supplements
extend Botox’s effectiveness.
FILLERS
Botox eases lines, while injectable
dermal fillers restore lost volume,
smooth lines and soften creases.
The gel-like substances are embraced
by more than a million men and women
annually, according to the American
Board of Cosmetic Surgery. Their
popularity stems from the fact that they
help one to look younger without much
more expensive surgery and its downtime.
Fillers’ one failing was that they only
lasted about a year. Not so these days.
“They’ve now gotten much better at
designing fillers to where they last much
longer and give more natural-looking
results,” Johnson said
The latest filler technology is Vycross,
which provides more lift and longevity.
Because there are so many options for
fillers, a cosmetic surgeon’s guidance is
critical in choosing which product works
better in a particular area. Some fillers
are better at plumping the marionette
lines, while others work better to pout
the lips and erase the vertical lip lines.
“Lip filler is one of the most popular
treatments I do,” she said. “A little bit can
make a great difference for patients.”