How Is BOTOX® Measured?
BOTOX® is measured in units; each unit will contain a set number of botulinum molecules. The unit is determined by the manufacturer so that a standardized ability to affect the nerve can be utilized by the doctor during treatment.
Factors That Affect The Amount Of BOTOX® You Will Need
These are some of the determinants used by your plastic surgeon to inform your skin treatment plan:
Metabolism: The rate at which your body’s metabolism functions will determine how long the effects of BOTOX® will last for you.
Gender: Men will generally have larger facial muscles than women and will require more units of BOTOX® for equivalent effects.
Scope Of Wrinkling: The number and depth of wrinkles will influence the amount of BOTOX® needed to treat the area.
Size: Of course, the size of the treatment area affects the amount of BOTOX® needed. Someone with a broader forehead will require more units.
Strength Of Facial Structure: Strength of the underlying muscles can determine the amount of BOTOX® needed. Areas of the face that are stronger from frequent and repeated use like the muscles that you use to purse your lips will require more units.
Outcomes: Some patients choose to maintain some muscle movement in the treatment area, while some choose a deeper, more immobile result.
Unit Guidelines
To give you an idea, here are the recommended guidelines of BOTOX® units for some popular treatment areas:
- Crow’s feet: 5-15 units per side
- Dimpled chin: 2-6 units
- Eyebrows: 2-5 units per side
- Forehead lines: 10-30 units
- Frown or Glabellar Lines: 15-25 units
- Gummy smile: 2-4 units
- Marionette lines: 2-8 units
- Nasalis “Bunny” lines: 5-10 units
- Neck bands: 25-50 units
- Pout boost: 2-4 units
- Smile lift: 3-6 units
- Upper lip lines: 4-8 units
Consult With A Qualified Plastic Surgeon
If you are considering BOTOX® to reverse the signs of aging, it is important to consult with a qualified and skilled professional. They will be able to determine the ideal number of BOTOX® units needed to help you achieve your goals for smoother, more youthful skin.
Dr. Adil Ladak is highly skilled in BOTOX® treatments and other surgical and non-surgical solutions to help you feel confident and beautiful. He is a board certified plastic surgeon and is committed to providing his patients with the information and education to make the most informed decisions about their appearance and health. To explore the possibilities of BOTOX®, skin treatments, and other cosmetic solutions visit Alberta Plastic Surgery in Edmonton by booking your complimentary consultation. Call us at (780) 407-6691 or fill out the form below.
FAQs
Q: How can BOTOX® help me?
A: BOTOX® injections are used to:
- Eliminate frown lines
- Smooth out forehead wrinkles
- Minimize crow’s feet
- Eliminate lip lines
- Lift drooping eyelids and brow
- And more… consult with Dr. Ladak to see if BOTOX® can help you achieve your goals for a more youthful, rested appearance.
Q: Does BOTOX® hurt?
A: BOTOX® injections do not normally hurt, but some patients are uncomfortable with needles so a topical numbing lotion can be applied prior to treatment
Q: How long does BOTOX® last?
A: Everyone is different. But in general, you can expect to enjoy the benefits of BOTOX® for 3-6 months.