-
Botulinum Toxin works at the neuromuscular junction (the area where the motor nerve meets the muscle fiber). The botulinum toxin inhibits the release of a neurotransmitter called acetylcholine, which functions to initiate a muscle contraction. This inhibited release of acetylcholine causes the muscle to be paralyzed and prevents the muscle fiber from contracting. When placed by a trained injector, we can use this intentional muscle paralysis to change how the face wrinkles with movement, release downward pulling muscles that contribute to aged or undesired aesthetic, and reduce overactive muscles of the face and neck.
-
We are currently offering Dysport® as our botulinum toxin of choice. After a treatment, we counsel our patients that the effects of botulinum toxin can last between 2-4 months after the injection. This is heavily influenced by post-injection instruction adherence, lifestyle of the patient, and dose delivered. As an example, patients who frequent the gym with intense exercise or using sauna/steam rooms frequently may experience a higher metabolism that eliminates the botulinum toxin faster. The dose heavily corresponds to the duration of effect as well, with higher doses lasting longer.
An important consideration of dose duration is the concept of “peak effect”. Botulinum toxin is like any medication where the body eliminates it slowly over time. Patients typically experience “peak effect” around day 30-60, with a slow decline in effect from there on. After a couple treatments, you and your treating physician will have a better gauge on how your body responds to the treatment and how to best achieve your dose duration goals.
-
“Down time” refers to the duration a patient may want to rest or stay home after a treatment. Botulinum toxin injections have almost no down time. We frequently perform quick botulinum toxin injections that fit into your busy schedule.
There may be small pinpoint bleeding at sites of injection, though typically minimal, and you may experience a small bruise at a site of injection.
We recommend sleeping face up the first night, avoiding facial massage or pressure, and avoiding exercise or heat application to the face the day of the injection.
-
Botulinum Toxin is the most commonly performed cosmetic injectable procedure, and is very safe when performed by a qualified healthcare provider. Common side effects include pinpoint bleeding, bruising, and swelling at the injection site.
Like any procedure there are associated risks and complications that can rarely occur. These are minimized by ensuring your injector is trained by an accredited institution. At The Balanced Method KC, we require all injectors to be certified with hands on training through the American Academy of Facial Esthetics (AAFE) to ensure injections are as safe as possible. During your appointment, your treating provider will discuss the specific risks and complications of the areas where treatment is desired.
-
Our cost per unit of Dysport® can be found on our Service Menu as well as our Grouped Appointment Service Menu.
*We encourage all our patients to use AspireRewards through Galderma© to experience significant savings on almost every treatment.
The cost of a botulinum toxin treatment is widely variable and is unique to the treatment goals of the patient. Factors that influence cost:
Areas of the face treated
Muscle mass of the areas treated
Prior response to botulinum toxin & metabolism of the patient (some patients require lower or higher doses)
Patients can expect to spend ~$375 to $600 for 2-4 treatment areas, with additional costs when treating more areas of the face/neck.
*Please note these are estimates for patient financial planning, and specific pricing for individuals will vary based on the dose of medication required to achieve desired results.