San Antonio Cosmetic Surgery“Preventative” Botox For Patients in their 20s

Botox is among the most popular cosmetic procedures in America, but it seems that its wrinkle-reducing properties aren't just limited to people 35 and older. A recent article on the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery (ASPS) website indicates that a growing number of people aged 19 and 34 is pursuing “preventative Botox.” While there has been little research into the possibilities of preventing wrinkles with Botox, many argue that the technique has shown significant success over the past several years.

Botox is an injectable product, derived from botulinum toxin, which can be used to treat migraines and muscle spasms. However, since 2002, the drug has been FDA-approved treat crow's feet and other facial wrinkles. This popular alternative to facelift surgery and dermal fillers works by temporarily blocking the nerve impulses that cause certain muscles to stretch. These muscles relax and allow others to stretch, which causes wrinkles to disappear. ASAPS statistics indicate that more than 370,000 people between the ages of 19 and 34 underwent the procedure in 2010.

The Preventative Botox Debate

There is no definitive evidence that Botox injections are able to prevent wrinkles. However, many doctors and researchers argue that the practice can be effective by paralyzing the muscles that cause wrinkle formation. One doctor, who spoke with TheGloss.com, said that he has been getting excellent results with preventative Botox for more than ten years.

However, contrary to what one might think, preventative applications use the same dosages as regular applications. “Botox works by blocking muscle movement… To relax someone's muscle takes the same amount at 20 or 50. Dosages would not change with age, it would just be more dependent on what worked best for each individual.”

Patients receiving Botox treatments must have further injections every 3–6 months in order to maintain the results. It's important to consult with a board-certified plastic surgeon who can discuss the risks and long-term effects of Botox injections at San Antonio Cosmetic Surgery.