The world of aesthetic treatments is more accessible than ever, but with that comes a wave of information—some accurate, some misleading. With instant access to information, through social media platforms and influential celebrity culture, patients may sometimes develop a fear of looking unnatural or have unrealistic expectations about what neuromodulators, such as Botox Cosmetic®, and dermal fillers can achieve. Patient education is critical when deciding whether to embark on a journey with injectables. That’s why understanding the possibilities and limitations of injectables is essential for making informed, confident decisions.
Written by our very own Nurse Shelley, this blog explores the possibilities and limitations of injectables, helping you make informed, confident decisions about your aesthetic journey.
Botox Cosmetic® and Dermal Fillers: The Science Behind the Beauty
Botox Cosmetic® is a prescription injectable neuromodulator medication which relaxes muscles that cause ‘dynamic wrinkles’. Common treatment areas include frown, forehead and crow’s feet. The results normally last 3-4 months, with muscle movement gradually returning as treated areas metabolize the Botox Cosmetic®.
Cross linked hyaluronic acid dermal filler is a synthetic gel-like substance that binds with tissue and is injected for facial balancing, age related volume loss and/or skin hydration. HA dermal fillers can last from nine months to two years and sometimes longer depending on the type of product used in the treatment area.
When used appropriately, a combination therapy of Botox Cosmetic® and dermal filler can create natural outcomes resulting in a rejuvenated appearance.
Natural vs. Overdone: Finding the Right Balance with Injectables
Many of us have been startled by a face that looks unsettling due to the overuse of dermal filler. This excess can shift the harmonious balance of facial features into caricatures, with unnaturally large lips or overprojected cheeks. The overuse of neuromodulators can make a face appear expressionless and difficult to “read,” as the lack of noticeable mobility is quickly registered by the brain within milliseconds, signaling when a face looks unnatural or “overdone.” Exceptional injectable treatment outcomes are undetectable and look natural.
Injectable therapies have become a part of our culture over the past few decades and sometimes are regarded as standard beauty treatments. It is important to remember that neuromodulator and filler treatments are medical procedures performed by licensed healthcare practitioners. Thorough consultations with your injector to review your medical history, understand risks and benefits, evaluate your expectations and aesthetic goals, and assess your unique anatomy are crucial to the process.
Why Consultation Matters: What To Consider
As aesthetic medicine grows, patients now have more choices than ever when it comes to selecting an injector and clinic in their community. Consider booking a minimum of three consultations to interview three different potential injectors.
As a patient, it is important to research your injector prior to booking. Some factors to consider are:
- What type of training they have completed?
- How long they have been practicing as an injector?
- How often do they inject patients: (daily, weekly, monthly)?
- Are they maintaining ongoing education?
- How will they deal with potential complications?
- Review their before and after photos.
- Do they look natural?
- Do you have a sense of trust in them and their abilities?
- Do they take pre and post medical images and book follow up appointments in their practice?
- What is your impression of the clinic space?
- Does your injector believe injectable therapy can meet your aesthetic goals, or do you require a surgical procedure?
Case Study: Nurse Shelley’s Patient’s Journey to Natural Rejuvenation
This patient came to Nurse Shelley in December 2019. She desired a natural look that would make her feel less tired, less sad, and less saggy.
Her treatment plan began with Botox in her frown and then gradually moved to her crow’s feet. She then received filler in her smile lines and cheeks.
This patient was thrilled with her results, and after building trust with Nurse Shelley, gradually over time, she received a full-face filler rejuvenation in her cheeks, chin, temple, jawline, and lips and maintained Botox treatments every four months.
The results left this patient feeling so confident that she entered the Allergan Botox National campaign and was chosen as one of three spokespersons to represent Allergan Canada out of thousands of applicants across the country!
Trust Your Injector for Natural, Personalized Results
During your consultation, ensure your injector reviews risk factors, explains the treatment process and creates an individualized treatment plan for you. This is not solely the treatments you will be receiving, but also a quote for your treatment and aftercare instructions. Your injectable results depend on your injector’s experience, education, and aesthetic vision. Confirm that your aesthetic values align with your injector to ensure your satisfaction with your treatment results. After you have done your homework, trust your instincts.
