Botox FAQs
What is Botox?
Botox is the highly purified protein from the bacterium called Clostridium botulinum. It can be injected into the muscles of various facial areas to temporarily reduce frown lines, forehead furrows, crow's feet, lines and wrinkles of the upper lip, the Down-Turned mouth, nasal crunch lines, and the hanging cords in front of the neck. In many espects, it is safer than Aspirin. Dr. Ellis also uses Botox for excessive
sweating under the arms. Both women and men in the summer feel much more comfortable if the do not perspire under the arms. The use of Botox for sweating (hyperhidrosis) is covered by many supplementary health nsurance companies.
More about Botox in Toronto:
Who is the best candidate for Botox?
The best candidate for Botox is a man or woman who is looking to temporarily reduce frown lines, forehead furrows, crow's feet, lines and wrinkles of the lower face, nasal muscles, and/or hanging bands in the neck. This procedure may also be good for younger individuals demonstrating early signs of aging who want to slow down its progression, or for individuals who are not suitable candidates for more extensive facial cosmetic surgery. The use of Preventative Botox can delay the start and slow the progression
of the upper facial lines.
Where is the Botox procedure performed?
Botox procedures are typically performed at 167 Sheppard Av West, Toronto by Dr. Ellis or his specially-trained staff.
What type of anesthesia is used for the Botox procedure?
Botox injections typically do not require anesthesia.
How is the actual Botox procedure erformed?
The doctor will likely ask to you to contract the muscle in the area being treated. This will help to determine the exact location for the injection. A tiny needle is used to inject the Botox into the muscle, which temporarily paralyzes the muscles causing the wrinkles. The complete effect of the injection may take 10 days to be realized.
How long does the actual Botox procedure last?
Initially Botox will last 3-4 months, but for regular users it can last 6 months or longer. For excessive sweating, Botox effects usually last 9 months. The treatment takes 15-30 minutes depending on the areas treated. Botox is never permanent.
Is the procedure painful?
As Dr Ellis uses a tiny diabetic needle the injections are virtually painless, but Botox itself has a little acidity so there can be slight stinging during the second or two that Botox is injected.
What is the recovery like after Botox?
There is virtually no downtime after a Botox procedure and patients can typically resume their normal activities right away (except for using a sauna or steam bath for 24 hours).
What are the risks or complications of getting Botox?
Patients may experience some local numbness or swelling that disappears in hours. Bruising can occur, especially when injecting for squint lines, but this rapidly disappears and can be camouflaged with make-up if you are going to a party or work the same day. For a very small percentage of patients, there is the risk of no improvement. There may also be other minimal risks specific to the location being injected, and Dr. Ellis will tell you about these before your injection.
Does insurance cover Botox injections?
OHIP insurance typically does not cover the cost of Botox injections used for cosmetic purpose. Coverage may be available to some degree if used for medical purposes. Be sure to check with your own insurance carrier regarding the degree and/or availability of coverage.
Is it possible to get Botox injections financed?
Financing is available for cosmetic surgery procedures. Dr. Ellis can provide information about corporations that will lend you money for cosmetic procedures. When you come for a consultation, Dr. Ellis’ staff will explain the financing that is available to you.
What should I look for in a surgeon to perform my Botox procedure?
Facial Plastic Surgeons, because of their training and local expertise in the head and neck, know the facial muscles in great detail so that are well trained in this area. Dr. Ellis has actually done teaching session on the anatomy of the facial muscles to most of the top injectors in Canada. He is a member of the American Academy of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery and has served on its Board. (LINK to http://www.aafprs.org). You should also
ask any potential surgeon the following questions:
-
How many Botox procedures has the surgeon performed?
-
Where and how will the Botox be performed?
-
What are the risks of injecting Botox in a particular area?
Are there any medications that need to be avoided before or after the procedure?
Certain medications can increase the potency of Botox and may increase bruising and bleeding at the injection site. These may include some antibiotics, anti-inflammatory medications, aspirin, and vitamin E and Ginkgo Biloba. Be sure to inform your doctor of any and all medications that you are taking prior to your treatment.
Botox available in Toronto - Learn More.