How to Decide a Treatment Plan that Works for You
A common question asked by patients is how often should I get treated with Botox (Dysport or Xeomin)?
Tip #1 - Your face is Unique, so Is your Prescription
After ten years of examining facial expressions and facial anatomy I have realized each and every face is very unique. Dosing and placement is an art and takes a careful eye and hand. There are different depths to place the needle to avoid diffusion of the medication to other muscles. There are unique muscle attachments for each patient. Also, what is happening in the underlying structures such as the under eye area? Some patients need their muscle tone to prevent puffiness or sagging of tissues.
Tip #2 - You can choose Different areas at each visit
Contrary to the way Botox pharmaceutical reps train new injectors, there is no one formula for every treatment. When I was first trained it was the Botox sales people who sent us trainers to show us (professional providers) how much dosing each patient needed based on a one-sized-fits-all formula. I learned in my first few years that this is not the case and patients not only have unique faces, they also have unique goals for how they want to move their face and how much they budget for these treatments.
Tip #3 - Average time for a Full Dose to wear off is 3-5 months
A full dose for your friend will be different than yours. Why? Well, do you look like your friend? Do you smile as much as she does? Are you the same age? Same sun exposure habits?
We can start with a "full dose" if you can tolerate your muscles being immobile for the first 2-6 weeks. If you'd like a bit more expression then we adjust the dose to a level where your muscle have a tiny bit of strength -- which looks more natural in the crow's feet and upper forehead.
Tip #4 - I Help You Choose your own Adventure
My ultimate goal is developing long term trust and relationships with my patients. I am a Board Certified Family Nurse Practitioner and my value is patients over profit. I do not get paid more if I put more medication in your muscles. I am not a commission based medi-spa. I am a small town, established, clinical practice. I do not discuss per unit pricing so that I can create a treatment plan based on what your face and your budget can handle. And we can do as little as you desire to look as natural as possible. If you have a budget I will artistically place the dose in the area it will have the most natural results for you.
Tip #5 - Taking time at each visit and reassessment is key
Your face is so unique, and so are my skills and care. I make time for my patients so that we can be sure all needs are met. You may start your Botox journey in your 30's, 40's, 50's or 60's. I have different recommendations for each of these decades -- depending on your unique features and budget.
Whether I see you twice a year or four times we will always do what is best for You
I believe you and I are here to care for ourselves and others. We want to be a part of a community that cares for people. I believe when we do the right thing it ripples out in to the community and creates a better world.
Thank you for taking your time to read this. I invite to to ask questions in the comments or let me know if this resonates with you.