Botox: Is It Right for You?

DR. LISA J. LEARN

If you are making a big decision—especially one that can potentially improve your life—it’s so important to have as much information as possible.

Deciding if Botox is right for you certainly qualifies as such a decision.

And because it is, we’ve prepared this 20-point guide covering a variety of questions that can help you decide if this is the right procedure for you.

Phone: (954) 380-8411 Fax: (954) 380-8413 drlisalearn.com

1. Do you want smoother skin?If you’re interested in a procedure to fill sagging or drooping skin, your best choice might be a dermal filler (like the Juvederm product we proudly use in our office). To tighten the skin, though, you’re most likely going to be interested in Botox services. Of course, a combination of the two can provide amazing results.

2. Can you afford it? This might seem like a pretty simple question, but it’s still an important one to consider in making your decision—even though Botox injections are not particularly expensive for most people.

3. Do you understand that we will likely recommend at least some maintenance?Some procedures tend to be more of a one-and-done kind of deal. With Botox services,you may need to come in for upkeep.

4. Are you over the age of 30?In the event you’re still in your 20’s, you can have a cosmetic Botox procedure performed, but this isn’t typically a necessary process. If you’re past 30 and looking for a more youthful appearance, however, this could be something you’re interested in having done.

Phone: (954) 380-8411 drlisalearn.com

Botox: Is It Right for You? Page 2

DR. LISA J. LEARN

5. Are you under the age of 65?Whereas too young is a possible reason to seek alternative options, being on the other end of the age spectrum is also something to consider. Botox is only approved by the U.S. FDA for adults under the age of 65. If you’ve passed that mark, don’t worry—you still have other options (such as fillers and laser therapy)!

6. Are wrinkles and fine lines bothering you?When you look in the mirror, you should feel confident and comfortable about the person looking back at you. Fortunately, Botox is able to smooth out the wrinkles and fine lines that become a concern as we age.

7. Do you have migraines?Yes, there are certainly cosmetic reasons for Botox, but another reason some people undergo these procedures is because this is an FDA-approved treatment option for severe headaches (migraines). Please consult with your primary care physician first before pursuing this particular treatment.

8. Do you have hyperhidrosis?If you sweat excessively, you may have a condition known as hyperhidrosis (other names include bromhidrosis, osmidrosis, and bromidrosis). Botox is a possible treatment option for this condition. In this case, it works because the product blocks nerve impulses to the over-productive sweat glands. Please consult with your primary care physician first before pursing this particular treatment.

9. Do you have TMJ (temporomandibular joint) disorder?TMJ disorder causes jaw tension, headaches (due to teeth grinding), and lockjaw (in cases of severe stress). Botox injections are still a bit experimental—and can be considered an “off-label” use—but the early results are showing it to be a safe and effective treatment for this disorder. Please consult with your primary care physician first before pursuing this particular treatment.

10. Do you have facial twitching?Sometimes, a chronic case of hemifacial spasms can be the source of frustration or annoyance—especially when they have a sudden onset without any warning. Botox can be used to block the nerves responsible for making facial muscles twitch. Please consult with your primary care physician first before pursuing this particular treatment.

Phone: (954) 380-8411 drlisalearn.com

Botox: Is It Right for You? Page 3

11. Do you have an overactive bladder?Back in 2013, the U.S. FDA approved Botox as a safe, effective treatment for overactive bladders (OAB). This is particularly beneficial for those who find that anticholinergic dugs don’t work. Please consult with your primary care physician first before pursuing this particular treatment.

12. Do you just want to feel more comfortable in your skin?It’s important that you are able to love being “in the skin you’re in,” and you should know that you have options when you need a boost of confidence regarding your physical appearance. Botox injections can help you feel your best and reduce self-consciousness.

13. Are you re-entering the dating pool?Many Americans find themselves back on the dating scene later in life—and for a variety of reasons. No matter why you’re “on the market,” it’s only natural that you will want to feel as attractive as possible. Botox injections could be a key element in making that happen for you.

15. Do you want to improve facial symmetry?Sometimes, facial symmetry is thrown off by an eyebrow that sits lower than the other or when only one side of your mouth raises when you smile. When the problem comes down to muscle contraction (or lack thereof), Botox injections may prove to be rather effective.

14. Would you prefer not to look angry 24/7?For some people, Botox is the smart choice because the lines between their brows create a “perma frown” situation. If you are constantly being asked why you’re so mad—even when you’re feeling perfectly fine—you may want to consider these injections as a possible solution.

16. Are your expectations realistic?This is actually an important consideration for any cosmetic procedure you might be thinking about—and, in the case of Botox, you need to understand what can/cannot be achieved. Fortunately, we’re happy to answer any questions and provide appropriate information during your consultation.

DR. LISA J. LEARN

Phone: (954) 380-8411 drlisalearn.com

Botox: Is It Right for You? Page 4

17. Do you want to reduce the appearance of a “gummy” smile?If you’re unhappy with how much your gums show when you smile, Botox is a possible option to solve the problem. In this case, we might be able to use it by lowering the upper lip to cover more of the gum area.

18. Are you in the process of applying and interviewing for a new job?It may be against the law for a potential employer to explicitly discriminate against you based on age, but age is something (some) people take into consideration when deciding to hire you or not. You can boost your chances of avoiding age discrimination with Botox injections. (Make sure to schedule your appointment with enough time before your interview!)

19. Are you tired of having to use filters on your Instagram posts?No matter if you’re a fan or not, social media isn’t going away any time soon. If you want to look your best in posted pics—without having to rely on a filter—this is an option worth considering. Something else to consider—following our practice on Instagram!

20. Will you be undergoing a procedure using a dermal filler (like Juvederm)?In many instances, dermal fillers and injectables like Botox going hand-in-hand. If you are already thinking about using Juvederm (or another filler), ask us how we can compliment the procedure with a Botox injection strategy.

DR. LISA J. LEARN

Hopefully, you will find this to be a useful, valuable tool in making your decision. If you answered “yes” to any of these, you know that Botox is worth further consideration—and we’d encourage you to reach out for further guidance.

If you’ve answer “yes” to several of these, it’s a stronger indication that this is the right procedure for you.

Of course, if you haven’t found yourself agreeing to any, it would appear this isn’t what you need at this time. (But you might want to keep it in mind for the future, since circumstances in life certainly change.)

In the event you ultimately decide this is something you’d like to pursue, simply reach out to the office of Dr. Lisa J. Learn—South Florida’s top plastic surgeon—and request your in-person consultation. Please feel free to connect with our Ft. Lauderdale practice by calling (954) 380-8411. One of our friendly team members will be happy to help!