Botox For The Holidays

DR. SCOTT ANSWERS 2 COMMONLY ASKED QUESTIONS

This holiday season is more unusual than ever, especially when it comes to seeing each other. Outside of a mask, what we see of our family, friends, and everyday people is basically confined to eyes, forehead, and hair. As a result, our team at Eye Plastic Associates has had an increased interest from people wanting Botox in those exposed areas. This includes smoothing frown lines, crow’s feet, forehead lines and giving a modest lift to the brow. Botox can help rejuvenate the portions of the face people can see as they practice social distancing and wear a mask.

When someone comes into our clinic wanting Botox, it’s important that the patient understands the basics of this treatment first. Two of the most common questions asked are: How does Botox work, and is Botox a filler?

Dr. Scott has a description he likes to use when helping patients understand exactly what Botox can do for them. Botox works by affecting the nerves that sit over the muscles, “almost like fingers over the keys of a piano,” Dr. Scott says. “Botox goes into the end of the nerve terminals and prevents the release of these ‘water balloons’ filled with a neurotransmitter called acetylcholine.”

He continues, “There’s a SNARE protein complex in our body and its job, in a manner of speaking, is to take one of these ‘water balloons,’ open a window of the nerve terminal, and throw it at the muscle. When it hits the muscle, the acetylcholine then spreads locally over this muscle area causing it to contract. When you inject Botox, the Botox goes into the nerve terminal and tells the SNARE protein to ‘sit down for three months! You’re not allowed to throw any more water balloons at the muscle.’ Therefore, no acetylcholine is released and the muscles in these treated areas relax, thereby softening facial wrinkles. After three months, the Botox wears off and the SNARE protein can continue its job.”

Therefore, the answer to the second question is no, Botox is not a filler. It doesn’t fill a space — instead it affects the nerve terminal and the SNARE protein directly.

Of course, if you have more questions regarding Botox, or how it can help you look more rejuvenated this holiday season, call Eye Plastic Associates today to set up a consultation.

Meet Dr. Scott - Your Dedicated Oculoplastic Surgeon

Renowned for his commitment to enhancing your eyelid and facial appearance while prioritizing your safety. Dr. Scott is board-certified in Ophthalmology and has specialized fellowship training in Ophthalmic Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery.  With extensive training at prestigious institutions, including the Medical College of Virginia, Manhattan Eye, Ear, & Throat Hospital, and the Bascom Palmer Eye Institute, Dr. Scott brings a wealth of expertise to his craft. His accolades, including recognition as a Top Plastic Surgeon by Northern Virginia Magazine, underscore his dedication to excellence. Dr. Scott's passion lies in helping you achieve the best aesthetic results while safeguarding your eyesight.

Location: Fairfax - Northern Virginia

Areas of Expertise: Cosmetic laser eyelid surgery ( blepharoplasty ), ptosis surgery, treatment of benign and malignant eyelid cancers, correction of eyelid malposition – ectropion, entropion repair, and Botox and filler treatment.