BOTOX has been used by the medical profession for decades. It has a high safety profile.
Dr. Baeke was personally trained by Drs. Jean and Alastair Carruthers, who were the original innovators of using Botox for cosmetic purposes.
Recently, three similar neuro-muscular blocking agents: Dysport® (abobotulinumtoxin-A; Galderma, Lausanne, Switzerland), Xeomin® (incobotulinumtoxin-A; Merz, Frankfurt, Germany) and Jeuveau® (prabotulinumtoxin-A; Evolus, Newport Beach, CA) were introduced; some like to call Jeuveau, "NewTox". These manufacturers believe their agents to be superior to Botox in efficacy, safety and technique. Indeed, many believe their results last even longer than Botox. Until they have a longer track record, Dr. Baeke prefers to use BOTOX, unless a patient specifically requests another brand. The technique for injection is identical.
The best advantage over Botox seems to be price, where Jeuveau, Xeomin and Dysport are slightly less expensive.
Some unethical practitioners have given Botox a bad reputation by diluting their product to increase profit. This may explain why some unhappy patients complain of their results not lasting long. Regardless of which product you select, know this. Dr. Baeke only uses brand-name agents, purchased through proper F.D.A. and D.E.A. channels. Expired product is never used. All product is only reconstituted as per manufacturer's guidelines. Dr. Baeke never dilutes. Dr. Baeke typically performs the procedure himself, injecting 4u per site.
Patients are encouraged to apply a cool compress over the injection site and not rub the area for the first few hours post injection.
Complications with Botox and Jeuveau are exceedingly rare. An occasional patient will complain of a headache, for which Tylenol should be sufficient. Much more rare is a temporary drooping of the brow or upper eyelid. Though annoying, this is a temporary problem which should resolve in a few days to weeks. Dr. Baeke has never had a Botox patient experience this.
Medical science is continually learning new and wonderful uses for Botulinum toxin-A (Botox). One which has proven quite popular is with men and women suffering from excessive sweating. This condition called, Hyperhidrosis, can be quite social disabling. The most common areas of concern are about the arm pits (axillae) or palms of the hands. These individuals struggle with the embarassment of wet stains on their shirts or reluctance to shake hands. Botox can reduce and even eliminate the sweating. Its results can last for months.
Dr. Baeke encourages every patient to visit BotoxCosmetic.com and Evolus.com for further important information.
Q: Does insurance cover cost of Botox, Dysport or Jeveau?
Answer: Not when used for cosmetic purposes.
Q: Does Dr. Baeke ever hold a "BOTOX Party"?
Answer: Yes. Typically, these are hosted at someone else’s home. Arrangements would have been made in advance for Dr. Baeke and/or one of his staff to bring supplies to the event. These are always fun events, however advance planning is important to assure everything is conducted in a professional manner.
Q: Does Dr. Baeke offer concierge service?
Answer: Yes. PPPS offers a concierge service. We will be pleased to schedule a time for Dr. Baeke or one of our staff to meet you at a convenient place for private consultation and treatment. To assure availability of product, advance notice is necessary.
Common areas which Dr. Baeke will inject:
Forehead (usually 24u)
Glabellar frown lines (usually 20u)
Crow's feet (usually 24u)
Nasal "bunny lines" (8u)
Marionette lines, [i.e. downturned smile] (8u)
Q: If I am having some other cosmetic surgery, can I receive BOTOX injections then?
Answer: Absolutely. That is a great way to not feel any of the small injections on the face.
Q: What about use of BOTOX for excessive sweating of the underarms or hands?
Answer: Indeed, BOTOX has proven to dramatically reduce hyperhidrosis (excessive sweating). These areas are more sensitive than the face, thus it may be best to have an anaesthetist provide some iv sedation for your comfort. Here is great educational video from a British physician.