Facial scars can be very difficult to accept. After all, that person you once recognized when you looked in the mirror probably looks a little different, and not always in a good way. Worse yet, those aesthetic changes can sometimes be reminders of negative experiences. So, it makes sense that you would want to eliminate them or at very least make them appear less noticeable. The good news is that with BOTOX, you may be able to do just that. Here’s how this incredible injectable can make facial scarring less obvious, so you can take the focus off old injuries and look (and feel) like yourself again!
What is BOTOX?
BOTOX is the brand name for a cosmetic injectable made of the bacteria botulinum toxin. In small doses such as the amounts used to treat facial scars and wrinkles, this product is completely safe. In fact, in its first 14 years of cosmetic use there were only 36 adverse reactions reported to the FDA, and most were related to a preexisting condition and not the BOTOX itself.
Since its discovery, BOTOX has been used to treat a variety of conditions, from fine lines and wrinkles to even some medical issues like TMJ disorders. Recently, a study was conducted on patients following facial plastic surgery and found that scars that were treated with BOTOX immediately after were noticeably less bumpy and wide just four months later.
How Can BOTOX Reduce the Appearance of Scars?
So, how does it work? Well, according to researchers, BOTOX injections weaken the muscles underneath the incision site, which in turn lessens the tension and motion of the injury. While this may not seem important, think of it this way: scars in areas that are constantly moving tend to be larger and more noticeable, such as those you get from scraped knees as a child. Conversely, those in areas that remain still or don’t move as much generally heal faster and are less pronounced when they do. So, when you freeze the area with BOTOX, you are helping it stay motionless, providing it with a greater opportunity to heal. Thus, the sooner you treat the scar, the better.
Using BOTOX to Treat Scars
While BOTOX likely won’t make much of a difference on older scars, if you are undergoing a facial procedure such as melanoma removal, or if you have recently injured your face and are at risk of it leaving behind a noticeable reminder, speak to your cosmetic dentist today about preemptive treatment with BOTOX. This could help shorten your healing time and reduce the appearance of any scar tissue left behind.
Remember, BOTOX can be used to improve your facial aesthetics by eliminating the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, and even emerging scars. To learn more about this treatment, and how it can benefit you following a facial injury or procedure, schedule a consultation with your cosmetic dentist today!
About Dr. Ayer
Dr. Dennis Ayer earned his undergraduate degree at Benedictine College in Atchison, Kansas, and his dental degree at the University of Missouri-Kansas City School of Dentistry. Since graduating, he has completed more than 3,500 hours of continuing education, and is a proud, active member of numerous professional organizations including the American Dental Association, Kansas Dental Association, and the Academy of Facial Esthetics, which has been instrumental in helping him pursue excellence with dermal fillers and BOTOX. To schedule a consultation for BOTOX, visit our website or call us today at 913-246-3000.