Animation of the face is, of course, a good thing. Excessive animation, however, causes wrinkles that can eventually become static and permanently etched into our features. Not only can these deep lines age us in appearance, they can make us appear angry, sad, tired or stressed out when we are, in fact, happy, awake and relaxed. A class of medications known as neuromodulators can relax muscles to smooth animation lines and create a more youthful appearance.
Neuromodulators change the way that messaging is conducted between nerves and muscles. Cosmetically, they are used in very small doses to relax muscles that cause excessive animation of the face.
Neuromodulators have a well established safety profile and for cosmetic purposes the dose is very small. Dosing depends on the strength of the muscle, the degree of relaxation desired, the gender of the patient and, of course, the type of neuromodulator being administered. Men generally require higher doses than women because their muscles are stronger.
The cost, which can vary greatly from clinic to clinic, depends on dosing, how many areas are being treated, and the type of medication being administered. Some neuromodulators take effect faster than others and some last longer than others.
The cost for maintenance may come down with extended use, as excessively strong muscles will usually weaken over time and require lower dosing. If you use this class of medications to relax excessively strong facial muscles for a few years and then stop, the muscles will gradually strengthen again. Wrinkles and lines will return but will always appear more subtle than they otherwise would have, if you had never had them treated.
Administering neuromodulators is an art! The goal is to relax the muscles to smooth out animation lines. Dosing that is too high can freeze features and create a rather odd looking appearance. Moderate dosing, on the other hand, creates a natural, youthful looking appearance that you will love.
*Results may vary