BOTOX®
Consultations offered at our two convenient locations in Houston and Sugar Land, TX
At Avante Plastic Surgery in Houston, BOTOX is one of our most popular non-surgical treatments. While every experience can lead to great stories, there are also instances where it leaves a mark. Aging is part of those experiences that so many people would love to overlook because of the fine lines and wrinkles that come with it. At Avante Plastic Surgery, Dr. Ahmad Ahmadi strives to portray a more youthful you with BOTOX and other neuromodulators that will soften your appearance. To learn more about the treatment, please keep reading below.
Contents
What is a BOTOX®?
Neuromodulators stop muscles from contracting. They had other uses long before they were put into service fighting wrinkles. In the early 2000s, neuromodulators were approved by the FDA for cosmetic use for moderate to severe frown lines, and lines between the eyebrows. Neuromodulators are now established in correcting the forehead, Glabella (the 11’s), and crow’s feet around the eyes. If you’re not familiar with how neuromodulators do their magic, here’s a quick primer.
Neuromodulators are made from the botulinum toxin type A, the same bacteria that causes botulism. A few decades back, doctors discovered that when delivered in very small amounts this toxin could temporarily paralyze a muscle. It does this by blocking the signals from the muscle’s nerves to the brain. Because the brain does not receive the message, it doesn’t contract the muscle. The botulinum toxin type A has even proven effective at treating migraine headaches and excessive underarm sweating.
But it was not until it was tried on facial wrinkles that the toxin became famous. When we perform common behaviors such as frowning or squinting, certain muscles contract and form wrinkles on the surface above. Over time those wrinkles can become more permanent due to these repeated contractions. Neuromodulators stop the muscles from contracting, so the wrinkles on the surface don’t form or are far less apparent.
Benefits
Our Houston BOTOX and other neuromodulator patients have seen some of the following benefits from their treatments:
- Customizable options
- Easily combined with other treatments
- Fast results
- Increased self-esteem
- More youthful appearance
- Non-invasive
- No downtime
- Quick and easy injections
- Safe procedure
Ideal Candidate
The best candidates for BOTOX or other neuromodulator injections in Houston include those who share the following characteristics:
- Are in overall good health
- Aren’t allergic to any of the ingredients in the injectables
- Between the ages of 18 – 64
- Have moderate to severe frown lines or wrinkles
- Keep realistic expectations for the outcome of your treatment
- Maintain a positive attitude
- Not currently pregnant or nursing
First Step For BOTOX®
The first step in getting BOTOX or neuromodulator injections in Houston is to contact Avante Plastic Surgery to schedule your consultation. When you come into our clinic, you will get the chance to meet with Dr. Ahmad Ahmadi and figure out which neuromodulator injection is best for you. This will require Dr. Ahmadi to ask you questions regarding your medical history and examine your face for wrinkles and/or fine lines. He will also ask what your goals for the treatment are, answer any questions you may have, and work with you to decide which treatment will produce the most optimal results. Once the two of you decide on how to achieve your desired appearance, Dr. Ahmadi will create your treatment plan and if you like the plan he creates, we will administer your injections immediately following your consultation. If you would prefer to have your injection on another day, our Patient Coordinator will be happy to help you select the best day and time for you.
Expectations
On the day of your BOTOX or neuromodulator injection, you will come to our clinic and be made comfortable on our reclining chair. Dr. Ahmadi will offer you a topical numbing cream or cold compress for the treated area to alleviate any pain you may experience, however, some more experienced patients with a higher pain tolerance tend to opt out of both. If required, there will also be marks made that will indicate the desirable injection points. Using a thin needle, Dr. Ahmadi will inject specific amounts of your chosen neuromodulator into your skin or muscles. Each injection will only take a few seconds with the number of injections being mostly predetermined by Dr. Ahmadi.
Most treatment sessions will last between 15 and 20 minutes.
Recovery
After your session, you will be able to return to your normal routine, but it is very important to avoid rubbing your treated area for at least 24 hours. This will help avoid spreading the toxin to other parts of your body, which could lead to more serious risks. You should avoid any exercise or strenuous activity for the same reasons. You can expect some redness and potential swelling or bruising, but these reactions will subside over time.
Botox typically takes between 7-10 days to take effect, you may notice that your face is back to “normal”, but will have a firmer and more youthful appearance.
Cost of BOTOX® in Houston, TX
The cost of BOTOX or other neuromodulator injections in Houston will vary on a number of factors, including but not limited to, the type of injection you are getting, the targeted area, and how much of the product you will need to achieve your aesthetic goals. The best way to learn how much your treatment will be is to come in and meet with Dr. Ahmadi. After your plan is created, our Patient Coordinator will be able to give you a price breakdown.
Why Choose Dr. Ahmadi?
Dr. Ahmad Ahmadi is widely considered to be one of Houston’s best cosmetic surgeons thanks to his eye for perfection and comforting demeanor. His quest for excellence and knowledge has earned him respect among his colleagues. As a graduate of Baylor College of Medicine, Dr. Ahmadi is a board-certified plastic surgeon and member of the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS). He is also a published author in the field of plastic surgery.
Schedule a Consultation
BOTOX and other neuromodulators can be effective and help you achieve a smoother, more youthful face in just one 30-minute visit. If you are in the Houston area and are interested in BOTOX injections, look no further than Avante Plastic Surgery! To schedule your consultation, request an appointment through our website or call us at (281) 265-2639 and a member of our team will be happy to get you started.
FAQ
How to choose the right provider?
Neuromodulator injection is currently the top nonsurgical cosmetic procedure in the United States. That means there are a lot of clinics out there. It’s up to you to choose the right one. When selecting a provider for neuromodulator treatment, give your decision the same level of care and scrutiny that you would for a surgical procedure. Neuromodulator injection is still a medical procedure that requires specific training, knowledge, and skill to ensure safe treatment and natural-looking results.
The best way to start is to limit your provider search to a board-certified plastic surgeon. These physicians are experts in facial anatomy, and their training is not limited to a weekend course, as is the case for many other types of physicians or non-physician injectors.
It is important to feel comfortable with your provider. Read online reviews to get a take on a doctor’s bedside manner. Once you’ve narrowed down your list, schedule a consultation to see if the doctor’s philosophy aligns with yours. Remember, It’s your face, your budget, and your decision. If you feel pressured by a provider, walk away — and fast. Finding a physician who listens to your concerns and desires is key. Your doctor should be your collaborator in helping you achieve your goals, not dictate your goals.
Is BOTOX painful?
Neuromodulator injections are widely considered to be non-painful, however, there may be some uncomfortable sensations from the insertion of the needle. Each injection is quick, and we do provide methods for alleviating any pain or discomfort, but every patient will have a different experience. If you are worried about potential pain, please mention this during your consultation.
How many appointments will I need?
The great thing about neuromodulator injections is that you can see some stunning results with only one treatment. It’s important to remember that while injections can be long-lasting and effective, they are not permanent. Once you begin to notice the diminishing results, we recommend scheduling a “maintenance” appointment, usually every four to six months.
How long until I see results?
Although you may notice some immediate changes following your treatment, it usually takes five to seven days after injection to take effect fully.
How long do neuromodulators last?
Neuromodulators work their wrinkle-eliminating magic for three to six months. Different people absorb the now-inactive toxin at different rates, explaining the spread in the length of effectiveness. Once the body completely absorbs the toxin, wrinkles will start to form again.
Can I combine BOTOX with other procedures?
Yes! Our Houston BOTOX patients often choose to combine their treatment with other non-surgical, facial rejuvenation treatments, such as Dermal Fillers or Laser Resurfacing. If you have any particular goals in mind, please discuss them with Dr. Ahmadi during your consultation so that he can offer you his expert suggestions.
What are the risks associated with BOTOX?
Dr. Ahmadi prides himself in performing safe and effective neuromodulator injections, but as with any cosmetic procedure, there are certain risks and side effects associated with it, such as:
• Bruising, swelling, and/or pain at the injection site
• Cockeyed eyebrows
• Crooked smile
• Droopy eyelid
• Excessive drooling
• Eye dryness
• Eye tearing
• Flu-like symptoms
• Headache
• Mild-numbness
• Nausea
• Redness
• Temporary facial weakness or drooping
In certain, very rare cases, there have been instances where the toxin migrates to other areas of your body. If this does occur, these are the symptoms to be aware of:
• Difficulty speaking or swallowing
• Loss of bladder control
• Trouble breathing
• Weakened muscles
• Vision problems
• When performed by a skilled injectionist such as Dr. Ahmadi, these more serious concerns are uncommon, but if you experience any long-lasting or concerning reactions, please do not hesitate to call our office.