NEUROMODULATORS
WHAT IS BOTULINUM TOXIN?
Botulinum toxin type A is a of neuromodulator protein that is cosmetically used to temporarily block the nerve signals that cause muscles to contract. This effect relaxes and smooths the look of lines and wrinkles caused by repetitive movements on the face most commonly, between the brows, crows-feet around the eyes, and horizontal forehead creases. As we age and with repetitive facial muscle contractions, we start to develop fine lines and wrinkles. Botulinum Toxins such as Botox/Xeomin/Dysport weaken muscle contractions therefore reducing the appearance of fine lines as well as stopping more wrinkles from forming. Botulinum toxins are also used to balance facial asymmetry and relax facial and neck muscles.
The effects of neuromodulator injections typically last between 3-6 months.
REDUCE THE APPEARANCE OF WRINKLES
While there are many ways to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, Botox/Xeomin/Dysport injections are effective at preventing further wrinkle formation by making some facial muscles responsible for frowning or creating forehead lines inactive.
An experienced medical practitioner will not recommend neuromodulators for facial lines that are not caused by muscle movement. Wrinkles caused by sun damage or sagging skin will not benefit from a neuromodulator like Botox/Xeomin/Dysport/Nuceiva.
What Areas of the Face Respond Best to Botox?
- Forehead Wrinkles
- Crow’s Feet
- Marionette Lines and Corners of the Mouth
- Forehead Frown Lines
- Smoker’s Lines
- Neck Bands
- Sagging Brows
THERAPEUTIC BOTOX®: EXCESSIVE SWEATING
Hyperhidrosis is a condition characterised by sweating in excess. Research conducted on the efficacy of hyperhidrosis treatment with Botox show that target treatment of the feet, head, armpits, hands and face with Botox is both safe and effective against excessive sweating. You may be a candidate for Botox treatment of excessive eating if you fail conventional therapies(antiperspirants) and if other medical causes of excessive sweating have been eliminated.
Please consult your primary health provider first prior to considering this therapy.
- The cost of Botox for hyperhidrosis are not covered by OHIP however, private insurance company may cover some of the cost.
THERAPEUTIC BOTOX®: CHRONIC MIGRAINE
Chronic migraine is a condition that may not respond to regular migraine medications. It is defined as headache occurring more than 15 days a month for more than three months. Botox injection into specific areas may help decrease the frequency and severity of chronic migraine headaches. Studies show benefit from this treatment as it significantly reduces the frequency of chronic migraine headaches and improves quality of life.
Please consult your primary health provider first prior to considering this therapy.
- The cost of Botox for migraine treatments are not covered by OHIP however, private insurance company may cover some of the cost.
THERAPEUTIC BOTOX®: TEETH GRINDING & TMJ
Teeth grinding; also called bruxism, can lead to pain, headaches, jaw problems and damaged teeth.
TMJ (temporomandibular joint) is a joint that joins your jaw to your head. TMJ dysfunction often causes pain in the face, neck or jaw. Research has shown that injections of Botox into the chewing muscles in the cheek can block the signals that tell these muscles to contract, relieving the grinding and clenching.
Signs you may need Botox for Bruxism or TMJ
- Jaw pain and sore muscles
- Swelling in the face, jaw, or neck
- Clicking, popping or locking jaw joints
- Ringing in the ears
- Short or worn down teeth
- Cracked or chipped teeth
- Headaches and migraines
- Shoulder, neck or back pain
- Fatigue and poor sleep
Please consult your primary health provider first prior to considering this therapy.
- The cost of Botox for teeth grinding are not covered by OHIP however, private insurance company may cover some of the cost.
THERAPEUTIC BOTOX®: MIGRAINE HEADACHE TREATMENT
Chronic migraine is a condition that may not respond to regular migraine medications. It is defined as headache occurring more than 15 days a month for more than three months. Botox injection into specific areas may help decrease the frequency and severity of chronic migraine headaches. Studies show benefit from this treatment as it significantly reduces the frequency of chronic migraine headaches and improves quality of life.
Please consult your primary health provider first prior to considering this therapy.
- The cost of Botox for migraine treatments are not covered by OHIP however, private insurance company may cover some of the cost.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Botulinum toxin injections are performed using a fine needle into specific muscles of the face or neck. By carefully choosing specific muscles, we weaken only the wrinkle-producing muscles, preserving your natural facial expressions.The procedure takes approximately 15 minutes.
You can expect to see results within days after your treatment, but the full effect could take up to 2 weeks. It is best to avoid alcohol at least one week prior to treatment. Aspirin and anti-inflammatory medications should be stopped 7 days prior to treatment in order to reduce bruising.
Although generally safe, botulinum toxin side effects and complications can include:
- Bruising and pain at the injection site
- Flu-like symptoms
- Headache
- Nausea
- Redness
- Temporary facial weakness or drooping
It is very unlikely that the toxin might spread beyond the treatment area, causing botulism-like signs and symptoms such as breathing problems, trouble swallowing, muscle weakness and slurred speech. If these symptoms occur, seek medical help immediately.
Looking “frozen” or overdone is a common concern among individuals considering an in-office treatment for moderate to severe frown lines. There are steps you can take to make you feel more comfortable. First, have a detailed discussion with your provider. You want to talk through every concern you have, until you feel comfortable.
Our providers, who are experienced in facial anatomy, can determine the right doses to relax your frown lines without resulting in a frozen look. Finally, ask for an FDA-approved product, such as XEOMIN®, BOTOX®. or DYSPORT®. Remember, each person is difference hence individual results may vary.
- Pregnant or breastfeeding women
- A person with a neuromuscular diseases (i.e Myasthenia Gravis, ALS) or an autoimmune disease (i.e lupus).
- A person with an allergy to botulinum toxin or its ingredients (i.e allergy to Cow’s milk protein)
- If you have an infection in the treatment area
PRICE
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Per Unit $10
(Botox/Xeomin/Dysport)
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Injection fee for Therapeutic Botox $150
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Duration of Treatment 20-30 Minutes