Facial wrinkles fall into two primary categories: dynamic and static. The former result from muscle movement, and the latter from loss of collagen in the skin due to aging. Botox can work on either type but is more effective on dynamic wrinkles. Botox temporarily paralyzes muscles by blocking certain nerve signals. Wrinkles become less visible. Dermal fillers are preferred for static wrinkle treatment.

Renowned Miami plastic surgeon Dr. Christopher Craft explains where Botox works best for diminishing wrinkles.

1. Forehead Wrinkles

Deep creases in the forehead make people look older. Botox softens forehead wrinkles by stopping the frontalis muscle. It is responsible for elevating the eyebrows.

Forehead lines increase with age due to loss of collagen and the force of gravity. Preventive Botox injections when the lines first develop can keep these creases at bay.

2. Crow’s Feet 

There’s a downside to smiling and laughing. These expressions of happiness cause crow’s feet to appear. Crow’s feet are among the earliest signs of aging.

Botox treatment relaxes the facial muscles around the eyes. The eye area looks rejuvenated. Getting rid of crow’s feet can take years off your face.

Approximately three days after treatment, look in the mirror and smile and you won’t see those fine lines that were there beforehand.

3. Frown Lines  

Formally known as glabellar lines, frown lines are those lines between the eyebrows. They are sometimes referred to as “11” lines.

Deep frown lines make people look angry or tired. Botox relaxes these lines, providing a smoother, more youthful appearance.

4. Corners of the Mouth

The lines extending from the corners of the mouth to the jaw are also known as marionette lines. Why are they named for puppets? These lines resemble the split jaw of the marionette through which the puppeteer controls the mouth. The formal name is melomental folds.

Since these wrinkles form due to constant muscle movement, by paralyzing the muscles Botox relaxes the marionette lines.

Not Just for Faces

Botox, derived from botulism toxin, is not only a cosmetic procedure. Botox injections are used to treat:

• Contracted muscles
• Eye twitching
• Hyperhidrosis (excessive sweating)
• Lazy eye
• Migraines
• Overactive bladder

The wrinkle eradication benefits of Botox were discovered accidentally when patients undergoing treatment for chronic migraines told doctors the injections caused their wrinkles to vanish.

For More Information, Contact Dr. Craft

If you would like more information about Botox and where it would prove most effective for you, arrange a personal consultation with Dr. Christopher Craft. Contact our Miami practice to schedule an appointment. He will answer all your questions and create a Botox treatment plan addressing your needs.