DESCRIPTION
 The
natural process of aging is caused in large part by
the loss of elasticity, decrease in natural collagen,
and decrease in hydration of the skin and loss of the
natural supporting structures. In our youth our skin
is soft, supple and free from tissue damage caused by
time, injury (such as the sun) and disease. As the process
of aging continues, and the processes above affect our
skin, we begin to show the telltale signs of aging.
We start to notice wrinkles in our forehead, around
the eyes (crow’s feet) between the eyebrows and
around the mouth. Botox® is a non-surgical approach
to correcting the appearance of the lines that form
as a result of these changes. Botox® is a natural
purified protein produced by the Clostridium botulinum
bacterium. This substance has the ability to affect
the nerve impulses that control the muscles of facial
expression. These dynamic muscles, in turn, give rise
to the unsightly wrinkles that cause us so much grief.
By exerting a relaxing effect on the muscles, Botox®
can have dramatic effects in reducing the appearance
of these wrinkles. Botox® has been used for decades
within other specialties of medicine. It has gained
popularity for this cosmetic purpose during the past
decade and recently was approved by the FDA for use.
PROCEDURE
You will be asked what your areas of concern are. Dr.
Perez-Gurri will then inject minute quantities of the
Botox® Cosmetic into the regions of concern. There
is very little discomfort and the treatment is well
tolerated. Local anesthesia is not indicated.
POST-TREATMENT
You will return to your normal activities upon leaving
the office. It usually takes 4-7 days before you will
experience the relaxation of the muscles and in turn,
the diminution of the wrinkles. Everyone is different
and will have a different experience. The effects of
Botox® Cosmetic vary but can last 4-6 months. We
have found that after several treatments, the effective
length of time is increased with Botox ®Cosmetic.
COMPLICATIONS OF BOTOX®COSMETIC
THERAPY
There are relatively few
side effects of Botox® Cosmetic therapy, however,
you need to be aware that there are reported cases of
headaches, swelling of the eye region and bruising.
Occasionally, Botox® Cosmetic may spread slightly
and cause a temporary drooping of the surrounding muscles.
If these are around the eyelid region, some droopiness
of the eyelid may occur. It is self-limiting and will
return to its normal state. The time required, will
vary but is usually within 2-3 weeks.
WHAT & WHAT NOT TO EXPECT
These procedures are considered
enhancing in nature. They are not meant to totally
change someone's looks. We have found that one of
the key factors in achieving patient satisfaction
is patient expectation. No guarantee implied or in
writing is given regarding how you will look after
treatment. All attempts will be made by your surgeon
to satisfy your requests, within reason. The end point
of this procedure is to reduce the appearance of your
wrinkles, look better and enhanced. Please note that
all individuals are unique and will require a different
surgical approach. A suggestion is made by Dr. Perez-Gurri
based on his professional experience as to the procedure(s)
best suited to achieve your aesthetic goals. Remember
that many things are taken into consideration but
the one limiting factor is the skin elasticity and
depth of your wrinkles.
There seems to be an inverse relationship
with expectation and satisfaction. That is, the higher
the expectation, the lower the satisfaction. Body
image is unique and what the patient frequently sees
may not be what is seen by the surgeon. Therefore,
it is important that you become keenly aware of your
expectations for the procedure, know its limitations
and fully discuss any concerns that you may have regarding
the procedure with Dr. Perez-Gurri.
We encourage questions and have allowed ample time
to answer them personally or with our literature and
videotapes. Please realize that the results obtained
through Botox® Cosmetic therapy are not permanent.
The body eventually absorbs all materials used.
OTHER QUESTIONS
How long does the procedure
take to perform?
It will vary from 15-20 minutes.
Are my results permanent?
No. You can expect 4-6 months of results. We have
seen up to 8 months following repeated treatments.
Will my wrinkles look worse if I stop using
BotoxCosmetic?
No. Your wrinkles will revert to their pre-treatment
state. Remember that this treatment does not retard
“Father-Time”.
The above information has been compiled as a benefit
to you. We hope that this document has served to better
inform you on the proposed procedure. We encourage
dialogue. Dr. Perez-Gurri and his staff at Imagos
Institute of Plastic Surgery, Inc welcome your questions.
It is our sincerest wish that your surgical experience
at IMAGOS INSTITUTE OF PLASTIC SURGERY, INC. be a
pleasant and informative one. We recognize that all
patients will experience pre-operative anxiety and
fear of elective surgical procedures is normal. Our
trained professional staff and doctors are here to
serve your needs and answer your questions.
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