This class of medications includes brands such as Botox or Xeomin which work by partially decreasing the activity of over-expressive muscles on the face. The result is not a frozen look but rather a softening of the face. Your friends will think you look refreshed but will not realize you had a procedure done. At the end of this page are some of Dr. Miller’s patients who requested he diminish the wrinkles around their eyes and forehead.
Reduction of wrinkles around eyes with injection of Xeomin
What can I expect on the day of the procedure?
Your face will be cleaned and then Dr. Miller will evaluate your facial muscles to determine the best placement of the product. The product will then be placed into the appropriate muscles with one of the tiniest needles available so that your pain is minimized. Patients are always amazed at what little discomfort they experience.
Who injects Botox/Xeomin at Dermatology Specialists?
Dr. Miller, board certified by the American Board of Dermatology, is the only person who injects. Injecting Xeomin is a skill that Dr. Miller honed over several years during dermatology residency in San Diego and La Jolla, California under world leaders in cosmetic dermatology such as Dr. Mitch Goldman, Dr. Sabrina Fabi, and Dr. Melanie Palm. It is in your best interest to only have Botox or Xeomin injected by a skilled, board certified dermatologist or plastic surgeon.
How long does the procedure last?
After you sign a consent and photos are taken, the actual procedure is completed in just a few minutes.
Do I need to follow up after the procedure?
If it is your first time being treated, Dr. Miller recommends following up in 2 weeks to touch up any areas that may need a few more units.
Is it safe?
When using a relatively low number of units (50 or less), significant side effects are extremely rare. This is one of the safest procedures I perform.
How much does Xeomin, Botox cost?
There is not a one size fits all pricing as every face is different. The cost of this procedure is based on the number of units of product that are needed. For a woman in her 30s, the entire procedure may cost $300. A woman in her 50s with more pronounced wrinkles may need more units. Dr. Miller will provide you with customized plan and pricing before proceeding.
How long does it last?
It lasts anywhere from 3-6 months depending on the patient.
How quickly does it work?
In about 1-2 weeks, you will notice a very significant improvement.
Will my face be frozen?
No. Dr. Miller uses enough product to soften your wrinkles but does not overtreat.
How does it work?
Xeomin and Botox work by the same mechanism. Acetylcholine is a neurotransmitter that is released and enables muscles to contract. Both Xeomin and Botox prevent the release of the neurotransmitter acetylcholine leading to partial relaxation of muscles.
Is there any downtime?
Usually there is no downtime and you can return to work that afternoon. We only ask that you limit strenuous physical activity for at least 48 hours after the procedure. Rarely there is some very mild bruising. To be safe, I recommend scheduling your procedure 3-4 weeks before a major social event.
Is it painful?
Patients are usually surprised at how comfortable this procedure is. It is one of the least painful procedures you can have done.
Will I need any pain medications?
Very rarely if ever. You should have virtually no pain when you leave the clinic.
What are some common side effects?
Headache is one of the most common side effects but even it is not very common.
What parts of the face can be treated by Botox or Xeomin?
Commonly treated areas include the forehead, the glabella (between the eyes), and crow’s feet. It can also be useful around the mouth to minimize the appearance of a frown and to soften lines around the mouth.
In addition to Xeomin/Botox treatments for my wrinkles, what can I do to prevent formation of new wrinkles?
It is imperative that you wear sunscreen of at least SPF 30 every day. In addition, smoking is a significant source of aging. Finally, apply a moisturizer containing an antioxidant to prevent damage from pollutants in the environment.
Reduction of wrinkles around eyes with injection of Xeomin
Is it safe during pregnancy or breastfeeding?
It is classified as a class C medication. Since this is an elective procedure, please plan to wait until you are no longer pregnant or breastfeeding.
Is there a difference between Xeomin and Botox?
There is no significant difference. Xeomin and Botox work by the same mechanism and have equal potency per unit. Botox is just more well known in the marketplace.
