Wrinkles FAQ

I heard that botox is a poison. Is this really a safe procedure?

Botox is indeed formed from a powerful neurotoxin that is produced from bacteria. In concentrations that are used for cosmetic procedures, there are very little health risks. The procedure itself has had a great safety record, and the companies that produce this have taken great care to ensure patient safety. This does not mean, however, that there are no side-effects or risks of complications, however. Patients should discuss with their surgeon in no uncertain terms, the expected results as well as the associated risks involved.

Is botox and other fillers a permanent procedure?

The effect of botox is temporary. Most fillers are similarly temporary, being metabolized by the body over time. This is often seen as a disadvantage, but in a way this can work out to be an advantage too. While surgeons will do their best to inform patients of final expectations, there is often a gap between the patient's expectations looking forward and their actual experiences afterwards.

What should I know as a patient prior to cosmetic surgery?

You want to know as much as possible about the procedure, and thus, it is important that you maintain close contact and communicate well with the performing surgeon. Discuss in detail the procedure, total costs, expected results of the procedure, recovery time, and possible risks that you may undertake. You should also ensure that the performing surgeon has proper credentials, and is board certified.

Why do some people have few or no wrinkles even though they seem to be sun worshippers, and otherwise leading an unhealthy lifestyle?

Genetics play a role, and some are lucky in that they are less prone to wrinkling. Generally, individuals with darker skin tones are less prone to wrinkle as their skin pigment provides a significant amount of natural protection from sun damage.

Can expensive creams fix really correct lines and wrinkles?

Cosmetic products that are available over the counter do not qualify as prescription medication, and are not subject to the high standards of the FDA. It is important to take popular claims such as "better than Botox" or "removes tough wrinkles outright" with a grain of salt. While creams can play the role of an effective moisturizer, at best, they can only temporarily improve the appearance of superficial lines, and will have no effect on legitimate wrinkles.

What are the most effective treatments?

Effectiveness is usually judged by the level of improvement in overall appearance and duration of time that the improvement lasts. In that regard, cosmetic procedures like facelifts are the most effective. It is important to note that there are many other considerations to take into account, such as cost of operation, risks involved, and pain and inconvenience involved. Those who are considering treatment should educate themselves about all the available options, its benefits and potential drawbacks, so that they can make the best choices based on the best information available.

Why is it that smokers are restricted from having cosmetic surgery performed?

Most cosmetic procedures are considered invasive, and involve risks that are similar to that of a medical operation that is considered invasive. Chemicals inside cigarettes reduce the blood's capacity for healing from wounds, which significantly increases the risk of complications. Additionally, the risk of infection also increases. For this reason, many surgeons consider the increased risk to be unacceptable, since the procedure is not considered necessary from a strictly medical perspective. Other surgeons will perform surgeries provided that patients cease smoking for a few weeks prior to the operation. It is important to talk to your surgeon about their expectations as well as yours, and that both parties understand that risks involved in the procedure.