BOTOX® Cosmetic

What Is the Difference Between BOTOX® and BOTOX® Cosmetic?

While the layperson might use the terms BOTOX® and BOTOX® Cosmetic interchangeably, they are two different applications. Though both use botulinum toxin type A as the active ingredient, the two treatments are used in distinct ways. BOTOX® has been used for many years for various medical issues, as it can block nerve signals. In comparison, BOTOX® Cosmetic has been used to treat aesthetic concerns such as wrinkles and fine lines. Before seeking treatment, here are some key differences to be aware of.

BOTOX® Cosmetic vs. BOTOX®

BOTOX® Cosmetic is a specially formulated form of botulinum toxin type A used only for aesthetic purposes, such as reducing wrinkles, which is injected into the muscles of your face. This weakens the muscles, reducing movement and smoothing fine lines and wrinkles. People often have frown lines, forehead lines, and crow’s feet treated with BOTOX® Cosmetic.

In addition to the differences in what each formula can treat, the dosages are usually different. When used for medical instead of aesthetic reasons, BOTOX® is often injected in higher doses. Additionally, the injection sites are usually different. When medical professionals use BOTOX® for treatments, they must have specialized training to ensure they are administering it safely and effectively for various medical conditions.

BOTOX® Cosmetic and Aesthetic Medicine

When receiving BOTOX® Cosmetic injections, working with professionals like Dr. Jeffrey Maehara, who has extensive knowledge of facial anatomy and cosmetic procedures, is important. This ensures the treatment is administered correctly and in the proper amounts to help you achieve your desired results.

How Long BOTOX® Cosmetic Lasts

Each treatment with BOTOX® Cosmetic takes about 10 to 15 minutes. It takes a few days to see your full results as the active ingredient in BOTOX® Cosmetic takes time to settle and relax the muscles.

Unlike other dermal fillers that fill wrinkles, the botulinum toxin type A causes your muscles to relax temporarily. The results last about four months; however, you can continue getting treatments to maintain your look.

Schedule a Consultation in Honolulu, HI

To learn more about BOTOX® Cosmetic, speak with Dr. Jeffrey Maehara at Maehara Eye Surgery & Laser. Schedule a consultation today at 808-955-3937 or request one online here. Dr. Maehara serves Honolulu and the surrounding areas in Hawaii.

BOTOX treatment

Understanding the Science Behind BOTOX® Results

BOTOX treatmentAging is a natural part of life. Unfortunately, aging also comes with the loosening of the skin, which leads to facial wrinkles and fine lines. Thankfully, BOTOX can help alleviate these issues. BOTOX is a popular injectable used to treat fine lines, wrinkles, and other conditions. BOTOX may seem like magic, but there is some serious science behind why it works so well. Let’s explore the science behind a BOTOX treatment so you can understand if it’s right for you.

Understanding BOTOX Cosmetic

BOTOX is an injectable that is often used for facial treatments. BOTOX consists of a solution containing purified botulinum toxin. Botulinum is a neurotoxin that applies paralyzing effects to the facial muscles. While this may sound dangerous or alarming, this neurotoxin is FDA-approved to treat facial wrinkles. The neurotoxin blocks certain chemical signals from reaching the nerves in the muscle.

This stops the muscle from contracting and relaxes the treatment area. It is commonly used for cosmetic purposes, but BOTOX is used in various treatments. Some examples of other treatments include hyperhidrosis treatments, lazy eye treatments, muscle spasm treatments, certain types of migraines, and some urinary issues. The treatment is normally done in a single session, and results are apparent in as few as four days.

How Long Does It Last?

BOTOX usually lasts up to four months. However, you may see some lingering effects past then. It entirely depends on how quickly your body metabolizes the neurotoxin. Your body will naturally disperse and remove the toxin that is affecting your nerves. This means BOTOX is not permanent, which can be beneficial if you decide that BOTOX isn’t for you.

Seeking Treatment

BOTOX is a powerful and transformative cosmetic treatment that is non-invasive and has no downtime. That means you can get back to doing what you love while looking your best. At Maehara Eye Surgery & Laser, our team brings compassion, efficiency, and expertise to every treatment to ensure you get the best results. If you’re considering BOTOX, contact Maehara Eye Surgery & Laser at 808-955-3937 today.

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What Botox can and can’t do

Botox is a household name as the worldwide leader in non-surgical wrinkle treatment. You may have been thinking about getting Botox injections to treat your lines and wrinkles, but how much do you know about this popular treatment?

Read on for what Botox can and can’t do and why you should consider it.

  • Botox can treat dynamic lines and wrinkles, which are wrinkles that form over a contracting muscle in your face when you smile, frown or squint or make other expressions. It blocks messages sent by the nerves in the muscle to the brain to prevent the muscle from contracting.
  • Botox smooths out crow’s feet, forehead lines, frown lines, lip lines and bunny lines. It can be used to diminish neck bands and even correct a gummy smile.
  • Botox can’t treat static wrinkles, which are wrinkles that are always present and are caused by sun damage, genetics, smoking and other lifestyle choices. Prolonged dynamic wrinkles can become static wrinkles. Dermal fillers are a good choice to smooth out static wrinkles.
  • Unlike dermal fillers, which deliver instant results, the results from Botox will take 1-3 days to fully appear. That’s because it takes time for the injection to work on blocking the muscle contraction and erase the wrinkles.
  • Even though it’s made from botulinum toxin type A, which is a purified substance that’s derived from bacteria and may sound scary, it is the quickest and safest way to remove wrinkles.
  • If you are in good health and have a healthy frame of mind with realistic expectations for the outcome from Botox injections, then you would be a good candidate for this treatment.
  • Botox treatment only takes about 15 minutes, and most people return to their jobs or other activities after their appointment.
  • Botox is not a permanent solution to wrinkle reduction. Botox will keep your lines and wrinkles at bay for 3-4 months. The muscles will start contracting again. You will want to set up follow-up sessions to maintain results.

If you’re ready to learn more about whether Botox is right for you, call 808.955.3937 for an appointment with Dr. Maehara.

Botox vs. Xeomin: Which is best for me?

It’s no doubt that Botox is a household name as it’s the most popular non-surgical cosmetic treatment around. Xeomin is a similar injectable made from the same botulinum toxin, but it’s important to know which one is best for your needs as they have some differences. Here we break down the differences between both. 

Botulinum toxin type A

Botox and Xeomin are made from the botulinum toxin type A, which is the same bacteria that cause botulism. While Botox and Xeomin both relax muscles in the treatment area, Xeomin is made only with the botulinum toxin and no other ingredients, thus getting the name “the naked injectable.” Botox contains additional proteins.

Blepharospasm

Some people have a condition called blepharospasm, in which they experience involuntary muscle spasms and contractions of the muscles around the eyes. Xeomin is an effective treatment for blepharospasm. It is injected into the muscle, blocking the signal from the nerve and effectively stopping the spasms. Treatment takes about 15-30 minutes and starts to work within a few days after injection. Effects or results last for up to three months, at which point you may need to return for treatment. 

Lines and wrinkles

Botox is the worldwide choice for the temporary reduction of lines and wrinkles on the upper third of the face, but Xeomin may be substituted for patients who have a reaction to the proteins in Botox. 

Botox works on dynamic wrinkles that form on the skin when the muscle beneath the skin contracts. These wrinkles are caused by repeated expressions such as laughing or frowning. Forehead lines, frown lines or 11 lines between the eyebrows and crow’s feet around the eyes can all be successfully treated with Botox. Similarly to Xeomin, treatment only takes 15-30 minutes, results appear in a few days and last for about 3-4 months. You may need additional treatment to maintain results. 

To learn more about cosmetic injectables and how they may help you with your cosmetic concerns or functional needs, call 808.955.3937 today to schedule an appointment.

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Will I need Botox or dermal fillers to improve the appearance of wrinkles?

Botox is the most popular non-surgical cosmetic treatment in the world and a household name, but cosmetic fillers have gained so much popularity for their ability to smooth out lines and wrinkles and fill out hollowed areas in the face and give patients a more youthful appearance. Here’s the differences between Botox and dermal fillers and how they can help you reach your aesthetic goals.

Botox

Botox works on dynamic wrinkles, which are wrinkles that form in the skin over a contracting muscle when we laugh, smile, frown or squint. Botox injections relax the muscle temporarily, smoothing out lines and wrinkles in the upper third of the face, primarily frown lines, forehead lines and crow’s feet around the eyes. 

You will see the results within just a few days after Botox treatment, which last up to four months or longer. At that time, you’ll want to return for additional treatment to maintain or prolong results. 

Dermal fillers

Dermal fillers such as Juvederm reduce the appearance of lines and wrinkles and folds while smoothing skin for an improved appearance. Dermal fillers address static wrinkles, which are wrinkles that are ever present on the skin. These wrinkles are caused by the slowing production of collagen, thinning skin, and the effects of aging and environmental factors on the skin. 

The results of dermal fillers are immediate and last anywhere from six months to a year or longer, depending on the type of filler and the area treated. Supplemental touch-up treatments may be necessary to maintain results, similar to Botox. 

Botox and dermal fillers are both popular treatments because they don’t require the need to go under the knife, provide impressive results and don’t require any downtime. Most people return to their work and other regular activities after their appointment.

Botox and dermal fillers can be used separately or together to help you achieve a more youthful appearance. If you’d like to learn whether Botox or dermal fillers are right for you, call 808.955.3937 to set up an appointment and learn more.

Commonly asked questions about Botox

Botox is the first and only FDA-approved treatment to temporarily improve the appearance of moderate to severe frown lines, crow’s feet and forehead lines in adults. 

How does it work?

Botox targets the underlying cause of frown lines, crow’s feet and forehead lines by temporarily reducing muscle activity. Facial expressions such as frowning, squinting, raising the eyebrows and smiling, all lead to these unwanted lines and wrinkles. 

Who is a good candidate for Botox? 

If you have dynamic wrinkles caused by repeated muscle contractions in the upper third of the face, then you would be a good candidate for Botox injections. There isn’t a specific age. Often, patients are in their early 30s when they start getting Botox. Genetics and environmental factors also contribute to the level of wrinkle severity and when you can benefit most from Botox injections. 

How long is treatment?

After a thorough consultation, your treatment may take place on that same day and only consist of 15-30 minutes. You may have ice or topical numbing cream applied to the area before treatment to help with any discomfort. 

Is there any downtime?

Botox treatment requires minimal to no downtime. Most people return to their routine immediately after their treatment session. The convenience is one of the reasons it’s such a popular non-surgical cosmetic treatment. 

When will I see results?

Most people see results within 24-48 hours after treatment. Full results appear in 30 days and last for 3-4 months. 

Will I look like I’ve had work done?

Botox injections deliver predictable, subtle results that smooth out lines and wrinkles while you still look like yourself. No one should notice that you’ve had anything done, but they may ask you what you’re doing to stay looking so young. 

If you’ve been thinking about Botox treatment and wondering if it’s right for you, set up a consultation by calling Maehara Eye Surgery & Laser at 808.955.3937. 

What’s the difference between Botox and Dysport for wrinkle treatment?

Botox is a household name and consistently the most popular non-surgical cosmetic treatment around. But what about Dysport, which is often compared to Botox. Here, we break down where the cosmetic injections are similar and how they differ.

  • Botox and Dysport injections are both made from the bacterium Clostridium botulinum.
  • Both are considered safe, non-surgical ways to temporarily reduce fine lines and wrinkles.
  • Both cosmetic injections work on dynamic wrinkles, which are wrinkles that form over a contracting muscle.
  • Dysport is FDA-approved for treating moderate to severe glabellar wrinkles, which are the wrinkles between your eyebrows. Also known as “11 lines,” they are especially noticeable when someone frowns. Dysport isn’t recommended for mild glabellar lines.
  • Botox is FDA-approved for treating glabellar lines, forehead lines and crow’s feet around the eyes.
  • Both Botox and Dysport treatments are done in about 15 minutes or less in your doctor’s office.
  • Both wrinkle treatments result in little to no recovery time. You can return to your regular activities after you leave the doctor’s office.
  • Patients may experience temporary side effects, including slight pain, soreness, bruising, numbness or headaches. This applies to both Botox and Dysport.
  • You will start to see results within a few days after Botox or Dysport. Full results appear in 1-2 weeks, and results dissipate after about four months on average. You’ll want to schedule follow-up appointments to get additional treatments to maintain results.
  • Dysport is less expensive than Botox on average, and insurance doesn’t cover either type of cosmetic injection.

Cosmetic injectables are great ways to temporarily turn back the hands of time on your face and help you achieve a rejuvenated appearance without having to go under the knife or endure a lengthy recovery. If you are interested in learning more about Botox, Dysport or cosmetic fillers, set up a consultation by calling Maehara Eye Surgery & Laser at 808.955.3937.

Why the eyes are getting more attention

With the increasing, often mandated, use of masks to help prevent the spread of COVID-19, there is an increase desire by patients to help wake up tired-looking eyes and reduce the appearance of lines and wrinkles in the upper third of the face. Read on to learn more about Botox treatment and why it may be a treatment you want to consider.

What is Botox?

Botox is the best-selling cosmetic treatment of its kind. It’s FDA-approved to improve the appearance of moderate-to-severe forehead lines, frown lines (what looks like “11” lines between the eyebrows) and laugh lines (crow’s feet around the eyes).

Dynamic wrinkles

Botox treats dynamic wrinkles, which are wrinkles that are formed by repeated facial expressions such as smiling, laughing, squinting or frowning. These wrinkles form in the skin when the muscle beneath contracts. Botox temporarily blocks the nerve signal from reaching the muscle, which relaxes the skin and smooths out wrinkles.

The magic ingredient

Botox is made from the botulinum toxin type A, which is the same bacteria responsible for botulism. It is not harmful, however. Scientists discovered years ago that a tiny injection of this toxin into the muscle can stop the muscle from contracting safely and effectively.

Treatment time

Botox treatment only takes about 10 minutes. You may feel a slight pinch, but most patients don’t feel much or any discomfort. Treatment areas can be iced beforehand to help reduce discomfort.

Results

You’ll see final results in just a few days, and results last for about four months. After that time, the body absorbs the harmless ingredients and muscles will start contracting again. You’ll want to return for follow-up sessions to maintain your results.

Botox can help turn back time without the need for downtime that other wrinkle-reducing procedures may require. To set up a consultation and learn if Botox is right for you, call Maehara Eye Surgery & Laser today at 808.955.3937.

Smooth out lines and wrinkles in just minutes

Cosmetic injectables are a safe, quick and effective way to improve the signs of aging on your face. So how do you know which injectable is right for you? Here we discuss some of the more popular treatments and what wrinkles they address.

Dynamic wrinkles

Cosmetic injectables such as BOTOX and Dysport are FDA-approved to treat one of two types of wrinkles: Dynamic wrinkles. These wrinkles form when a muscle contracts from making facial expressions such as laughing, squinting, smiling and frowning.

Made from botulinum toxin type A, BOTOX is injected into a muscle to temporarily stop it from contracting. This smooths out and softens the look of lines and wrinkles on the upper third of the face, such as forehead lines, crow’s feet and frown lines between the eyebrows known as “11” lines.

BOTOX is the most popular non-surgical cosmetic treatment in the world because it’s fast, safe and effective. The treatment takes only about 10 minutes. It takes about one to three days for the full effect, and the results last for about four months. You’ll return to Dr. Maehara’s office for additional treatment at that time to maintain results.

Static wrinkles

While BOTOX and Dysport treat dynamic wrinkles, dermal fillers address static wrinkles, which are always present. These wrinkles are the result of our skin becoming less elastic and the decrease of underlying proteins as we age. Aging, sun damage, smoking, nutrition and genetics all factor into the formation of static wrinkles. Dynamic wrinkles can become static wrinkles over time.

Examples of static wrinkles include smile lines, nasolabial folds, marionette lines on the side of the mouths and wrinkles on the upper lip and under the eyes. Dermal fillers such as Juvederm are made of hyaluronic acid, a naturally occurring substance in the skin. They fill wrinkles and add volume. Results are instant, unlike Botox, and last for several months to a year or longer, depending on the filler.

Cosmetic injectables can work together to smooth out and improve the appearance of lines and wrinkles temporarily. If you’re interested in learning more about how to achieve a more youthful, rejuvenated appearance, set up a consultation with Dr. Maehara at Maehara Eye Surgery & Laser today by calling 808.955.3937.

BOTOX® Cosmetic Honolulu, HI

5 things you should know about BOTOX

Frowning, smiling, laughing and other repeated expressions will cause expression lines, folds and wrinkles on our faces over time. Dr. Jeffrey Maehara is dedicated to the care of his patients’ eyes, and that includes helping them turn back time on their face with cosmetic injections. BOTOX is a popular treatment with patients. Here are five things you need to know about this effective wrinkle treatment.

  1. It was the first FDA-approved treatment to reduce muscle contractions that cause lines in the forehead and frown lines between the eyebrows, and wrinkles such as crow’s feet around the eyes. It remains the most popular aesthetic procedure to this day.
  1. BOTOX treats dynamic wrinkles but not static wrinkles. Botox works on dynamic wrinkles, which form on the skin when a muscle contracts. It blocks the messages sent by the nerves in the muscle to the brain. The brain doesn’t receive the message to contract the muscle, so the muscle won’t contract. Static wrinkles are wrinkles that are always present. They are caused by gravity, the loss of elasticity in the skin and underlying support proteins as we age. Dermal fillers can “plump” the skin and fill wrinkles.
  1. BOTOX is safe and effective. It’s a cosmetic injectable made from botulinum toxin type A. It’s understandable to think that since this is the same bacteria responsible for botulism that it could be harmful. It is far from that. Scientists discovered years ago that a tiny injection of botulinum toxin type A into a muscle can stop the muscle from contracting.
  1. It requires minimal downtime. The treatment itself only takes around 10 minutes, and you can return to your daily activities immediately after treatment. You should notice visible smoothness with moderate to severe lines in the first couple of days.
  1. The results are temporary. You will need to return for follow-up treatments every four months to maintain results.

BOTOX is a great way to restore a youthful look to your face without surgery. To learn more, schedule a consultation with Dr. Jeffrey Maehara at Maehara Eye Surgery & Laser today by calling 808.955.3937.