Botulinum Toxin (Botox®)

Botulinum toxin is one of the most important substances in the field of facial rejuvenation and the most popular way of reducing facial wrinkles. Smiling, frowning and facial movement in general can lead to the most common signs of aging: wrinkles. Wrinkles make you appear tired or irritated, even when you are not. One of the most rapid and safest solutions for removing wrinkles is an injection of Botulinum toxin.

Type A and Type B Botulinum toxins are purified substances derived from a bacterium. The injection of this substance blocks muscle nerve signals, weakening the muscle so that it does not contract and reducing unwanted facial wrinkles. Botulinum toxin may be combined with other cosmetic procedures such as chemical peeling and dermal fillings to further improve results. This combination of therapies can also help prevent the formation of new lines and wrinkles.

A human face has 43 muscles and it is vital to know and identify the correct points for optimising the treatment. A very fine needle is used to inject small amounts of Botulinum toxin into specific muscles. With careful precision, the Plastic Surgeon attempts to weaken the exact muscles that produce wrinkles, preserving your facial expressions and producing more natural results. It is important to avoid overapplying the toxin and producing results that are artificial and lead to frozen faces without any expression.

Results are noticed between 2 to 3 days, however, it may take up to a week for the effect to be complete. This improvement, normally, lasts around 4 to 6 months. When the effects of the toxin begin to disappear, the muscles react and the wrinkles reappear. Generally, patients have 2 applications per year.

ANVISA approves the following brands of Botulinum toxin for use in Brazil: Botox®, Dysport®, Xeomin®, Prosygne® and Botulift®. Dr. Douglas Westphal uses Botox® exclusively.