Introduction to Botulinum Toxin
To date, botulinum toxin injection is the most popular procedure for reducing facial lines and wrinkles. Annually, over 7 million people receive this injectable treatment in the United States. Common brand names for botulinum toxin injection include Botox®, Daxxify®, Dysport®, Xeomin®, and Jeaveau®,. Dr. Tina Ho regularly performs Botox®, Daxxify®, Dysport®, Xeomin®, and Jeaveau® injections in Philadelphia and Wayne that reduce the appearance of wrinkles in the face and promote younger and smoother-looking skin.
What is Botulinum Toxin?
Botulinum toxin is a protein that is formed from a toxin that is produced by the bacterium Clostridium botulinum. Botulinum toxin is a deadly neurotoxin and is extremely life-threatening when taken in large doses.
However, when this toxin is used in small doses in the form of Botox®, Daxxify®, Dysport®, Xeomin®, and Jeaveau® injections, it is quite safe. Commercially sold preparations of Botox are also known as onabotulinumtoxin A. Botox®, Daxxify®, Dysport®, Xeomin®, and Jeaveau® are common brand names of botulinum toxins and are associated with the following pharmaceutical companies, respectively: Allergan, Galderma, Merz, and Evolus.
How Does Botulinum Toxin Work?
Humans tend to exhibit certain common facial expressions and repeat the same facial movements over and over again. This leads to stiff contracted facial muscles that have trouble returning to a resting state. The overlying skin wrinkles due to these repeatedly contracting muscles.
Botulinium toxin injection acts upon muscles of facial expression. When injected into targeted muscles, Botox®, Daxxify®, Dysport®, Xeomin®, and Jeaveau® cause the muscles to relax instead of staying contracted and therefore prevent wrinkle formation. Botox®, Dysport®, Xeomin®, and Jeaveau® are neurotoxins that act at the neuromuscular junction level and block the release of the neurotransmitter acetylcholine. By stopping the release of acetylcholine, the botulinum toxin blocks the signals of the nerves responsible for stimulating muscle contractions. This prevents the muscle from contracting, and as a result, muscle stiffness and the overlying wrinkle lines are reduced.
educational video
BOTOX INJECTION TO THE UPPER FACE: PROGRESSION OF RESULTS
Grateful for this beautiful patient’s share of her Botox journey with me, which received over 220K views on Tiktok! She was most bothered by her forehead lines and underwent injections to her forehead, glabella, and tails of brows to achieve the smooth yet natural look she was desiring. Note that with any injection to the forehead (and paralysis of the frontalis muscle), brow elevation becomes more restricted. I pursue a #lessismore approach to forehead treatment to preserve brow movement as much as possible.
Facial Contouring & Botox Treatment: Before and After
This beautiful patient was interested in facial contouring treatment options to address her chubby cheeks and overall round facial features. We pursued Botox injections to the masseters that narrowed the lower third of the face by the angles of the jawline and then buccal fat removal that slimmed her lower cheeks. Her facial contour is now enhanced with accentuated upper cheeks, slimmer lower cheeks, and a more balanced profile with more lip show. We are thrilled with her results!
What is Botulinum Toxin Used to Treat in the Face?
Botox®, Daxxify®, Dysport®, Xeomin®, and Jeaveau® are great treatment options for the following facial issues:
The FDA (Food & Drug Administration) has also authorized the use of botulinum toxin as a treatment for several medical conditions, such as migraine headaches, certain bladder problems, excessive sweating (hyperhidrosis), and spasms of the eyelid.
Why Choose Dr. Tina Ho?
Dr. Tina Ho stands out among other surgeons in Philadelphia and Wayne as a female, double board-certified facial plastic surgeon with dedicated training in facial rejuvenation surgery. Unlike general plastic surgeons, Dr. Ho specializes exclusively in aesthetic and reconstructive procedures of the face and neck.
She understands that a facial rejuvenation, whether surgical or non-surgical, is both an art and a science — a highly detailed and complex procedure that requires technical precision and an artistic eye to achieve natural, harmonious results. Dr. Ho stays at the forefront of modern products and techniques to deliver the most refined and lasting outcomes for her patients.
From the initial consultation to every follow-up visit, Dr. Ho maintains an unwavering commitment to each patient. She takes the time to listen, plan, and tailor every step of the rejuvenation process to align with the patient’s unique anatomy for realistic aesthetic goals and ensure each person feels confident, supported, and deeply satisfied with their results. Her approach focuses on preserving the patient’s natural appearance while maximizing safety and minimizing recovery time.
Dr. Ho received advanced fellowship training under world-renowned facial plastic surgeons Dr. Dean Toriumi and Dr. Steven Dayan. Dr. Ho continually refines her surgical knowledge and techniques to offer the best outcomes for her patients by regularly attending national and international aesthetic meetings and learning from leading plastic surgeons across the country in the operating room setting. Her expertise extends across all aspects of surgical and non-surgical facial rejuvenation.
Dr. Ho is recognized regionally and beyond as one of Philadelphia and the Maine Line’s most trusted female facial plastic surgeons, with patients traveling from throughout Pennsylvania, New Jersey, and New York to seek her expertise.
The Botulinum Toxin Treatment Procedure
Botox®, Dysport®, Daxxify®, Xeomin®, and Jeaveau® injection are effective, safe, and efficient treatments that only take mere minutes to perform. Botulinum toxin powder is diluted in saline and then injected directly into the muscles. The injection procedure can be described as a series of quick needle prick sensations that is tolerated well by the average patient.
Following treatment, Individuals can return to daily life immediately without any recovery time or frustrating downtime. Patients may notice a degree of bruising and swelling in the injected areas that is minimal and will fade shortly. They can be exacerbated with use of blood-thinning medications, alcohol consumption, and prolonged sun exposure, so avoid these for 48 hours prior to the procedure when possible.
Patients typically start to see some treatment effect at 48-72 hours with maximal results seen at fourteen days after injection. Botox®, Dysport®, Xeomin®, and Jeaveau® injections usually last three months on average depending on the dose injected and patient response.
DAXXIFY® Treatment in Philadelphia
What is Daxxify?
Daxxify is an injectable neuromodulator designed to relax muscles when injected into them. Its primary purpose is to reduce wrinkles and unwanted lines by blocking the messages between the brain and facial muscles that cause them to tense or flex. By preventing these messages from reaching the muscles, Daxxify induces muscle relaxation, effectively eliminating wrinkles. Although the effects are temporary, lasting up to nine months, this duration is considerably longer than other available wrinkle treatments. Additionally, Daxxify has received FDA approval, ensuring its safety and reliability as a wrinkle treatment.
How does Daxxify work?
Daxxify functions as a wrinkle treatment by relaxing the facial muscles through injection. The formation of wrinkles, frown lines, and other facial markings occurs through two processes. Firstly, aging leads to a decrease in skin elasticity, resulting in drooping and sagging, which contribute to the formation of wrinkles. Secondly, excessive tension or flexing of facial muscles, such as raising eyebrows, smiling, frowning, and other expressions, can also cause wrinkles.
When Daxxify is injected into specific facial or forehead muscles, it automatically induces muscle relaxation. This is achieved by blocking the messages and signals transmitted between the nerves and the affected muscles. By interrupting these messages, Daxxify prevents the muscles from contracting, even if the nerves continue to instruct them to do so. As a result, the paralyzed muscles relax, gradually diminishing wrinkles and fine lines. As long as Daxxify remains in your system, the eliminated wrinkles will not reappear. Essentially, Daxxify limits the movement of your head and facial muscles, leading to a reduction in the formation of wrinkles.
Daxxify vs. Botox
Daxxify and Botox share similarities in their mode of action as injectable neuromodulators. Both substances are administered through injections into facial muscles, where they disrupt the communication between nerves and muscles. However, there are several differences between Daxxify and Botox.
Daxxify has a longer duration of effect compared to Botox. While Daxxify can influence muscle relaxation for approximately six to nine months, Botox typically lasts between two to four months.
Daxxify also exhibits a quicker onset of action compared to Botox. While Botox may take at least five days to start relaxing facial muscles, Daxxify can begin to take effect within two days of injection.
Find Out More with a Consultation
Botulinum toxin or neurotoxin injection offers numerous benefits. If you would like to arrange an appointment to find out more about Botox®, Dysport®, Xeomin®, and Jeaveau®, schedule your consultation by contacting our offices in Philadelphia and Wayne.
Enhance Your Recovery with Elixir MD
The Elixir MD™ is an innovative recovery tool that offers various treatment programs using different LED light wavelengths to achieve specific pre and post-surgical goals. These programs are supported by advanced artificial intelligence temperature controls and adjustable settings to address a range of concerns and goals. This non-invasive therapy is safe, painless, and can reduce infections after surgery while also enhancing recovery and minimizing scarring after rhinoplasty surgery.
Benefits of Elixir MD
Enhanced post-operative recovery after rhinoplasty. Using LED light, Elixir MD™ stimulates the skin to accelerate wound healing and minimize scarring post-surgery.
Improved healing and cellular repair. Specific wavelengths stimulate collagen and elastin production, which are essential for healing after surgery.
Easier rhinoplasty recovery. Reduces inflammation responsible for swelling and pain after surgery.
Improved lymphatic drainage and blood flow. Enhances the delivery of nutrients and removal of waste for optimal healing.
Elixir MD Treatment Programs for Rhinoplasty
Elixir Detox
This pre-operative therapy uses blue light to reduce the number of bacteria, oils, and toxins on the skin, reducing surgical complications such as infection.
Elixir Cellular Repair
Post-rhinoplasty, Cellular Repair uses yellow light to improve circulation, reducing bruising and swelling, accelerating healing, and shortening recovery.
Elixir NeoXcell
The NeoXcell™ treatment program combines the benefits of Elixir Cellular and Thermal to boost healing and balance melanin production for a more even skin tone.
Elixir RoXium
RoXium™ uses yellow and blue light to reduce swelling/bruising, prevent skin oxidation, decrease sebum, minimize pores, and clear the complexion.
What is the Cost of Botox?
PleaseThough the final price on any Botox treatment will vary based on the needs of the individual, the price per unit is $15-20 per unit.
contact our team for pricing inquiries.
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As Seen In
Dr. Tina Ho in the Press
Dr. Tina Ho has been featured in leading media publications that highlight her expertise in facial plastic surgery.
Related Procedures
Explore additional procedures that complement a your procedure for balanced, natural-looking rejuvenation.
As a double board-certified facial plastic surgeon, Dr. Ho specializes exclusively in aesthetic procedures of the face. She possesses extensive experience in injectable procedures and trained under mentor Dr. Steven Dayan, a world-renowned leading authority in injectable procedures. Her treatment philosophy is centered on producing results that are natural and conservative. She is experienced in injecting Botox®, Daxxify®, Dysport®, Xeomin®, and Jeaveau® and will help determine with each patient the most ideal product to achieve their treatment goals. Dr. Ho understands the pain tolerance of every patient is different and is known for her gentle technique that is tailored to the comfort level of each patient. She also maintains an excellent hygienic protocol to avoid infection as well. For those patients new to botulinum toxin injections, Dr. Ho seeks follow-up with her patients two weeks after to ensure that every patient is satisfied with their treatment outcome.
* Individual results may vary.
Masseter Injection
Botulinum toxin injection to the masseter muscles (the muscle of mastication located by the angle of the jaw) is a common injectable procedure in facial rejuvenation, particularly among Asian patients. This procedure atrophies the muscle and therefore produces a slimming effect on the lower face. Patients with a round or square-shaped face often seek out this treatment to help achieve a narrower appearance to their face. Botulinum toxin injection is also a common adjunct procedure for temporomandibular joint (TMJ dysfunction), which is typically associated with symptoms of chronic teeth grinding or jaw clenching due to stress. The treatment weakens the masseters and reduces muscle tension in this area.
Gummy Smile
Gummy smile, otherwise referred to as excessive gingival display, is a type of smile where there is excessive gum show below the upper lip. It occurs due to a variety of genetic reasons including short upper lip, excessive gum tissue, or small teeth. Natural appearing smiles typically only show up to 2 millimeters of gum below the upper lip. Patients with a gummy smile often feel self-conscious and lack confidence with their smile. Botulinum toxin injection is an increasingly popular non-surgical treatment option for this issue. When injected into the upper lip levator muscles, Botox®, Dysport®, Xeomin®, and Jeaveau® will temporarily paralyze these muscles and therefore inhibit contraction and elevation of the upper lip with smiling. The overall result is less gum show with smiling and correction of gummy smile.
Brow Lift
When injected in the lateral aspects of the eyebrows at the level of the orbicularis oculi muscle, botulinum toxin can create a natural chemical brow lift. This is a great adjunct treatment to counter the forehead relaxation and ultimate brow restriction that occurs with forehead treatment for relaxation of wrinkle lines. Furthermore, this proceudre is often utilized in treating and correcting for brow asymmetry as well.
Eye Rejuvenation
Botox®, Dysport®, Xeomin®, and Jeaveau® injections to the orbicularis oculi muscle softens the crow’s feet lines and result in more refreshed and awake-appearing eyes. Depending on the patient’s individual anatomy, Dr. Ho regularly performs this procedure combined with injection to the lateral brows for brow lift and to the lower eyelids for additional relaxation of the orbicularis oculi muscle to maximize eye rejuvenation with beautiful, natural results.
Though the final price on any Botox treatment will vary based on the needs of the individual, the price per unit is $15-20 per unit.
Each person has a unique experience when it comes to the longevity of botulinum toxin, or Botox. With that said, results will vary from person to person. Generally, people should expect their Botox treatment results to last three to four months. However, some people may have longer-lasting results for four to six months, while others may only see results for two months. It is not unusual for first-time botox injections to wear off faster but then have longer-lasting results after the second treatment and beyond.
- To help prolong your treatment, you can do a few simple things, such as:
- Avoid sun damage
- Moisturize your skin
- Manage your stress
- Avoid smoking
- Take a zinc supplement
The above-mentioned suggestions can help protect your skin and maintain your Botox results for even longer.
You must be at least 18 years old to have botulinum toxin injections. Typically, people in their late teens and early 20s have yet to develop fine lines and wrinkles. However, most experts agree that preventative Botox injections are most effective for people in their mid-to-late 20s and early 30s, as this is when most people start to experience the onset of fine lines and wrinkles. However, Botox can also work to reduce or sometimes even eliminate deep wrinkles in older patients.
Getting a Botox injection will not make you look older after it wears off. In fact, if you use Botox for a period of time, it works to train your muscles not to make expressions that cause fine lines and wrinkles. This means that even after you stop treatments, it may take some time before your muscles return to making those same expressions (even though they are no longer paralyzed). Not only does it work to soften fine lines and wrinkles, but it can also soften deeper wrinkles and potentially eliminate them. If you choose to stop using Botox, you will not suddenly develop more wrinkles overnight.
If you stop Botox treatments, your wrinkles will eventually return. However, the return of wrinkles will be much slower than if you never had Botox injections. If you decide to take a break from Botox, you can choose to go back to it at any time. To experience the most preventative effect from Botox, however, it is recommended that you pursue regular Botox treatments every three to four months.
If you are a first-time for Botox injections, then there are a few things you should know about before and after treatment.
Before treatment:
- Make sure you have a clear understanding of the Botox price and the number of units you may need to achieve desired results.
- Speak with your provider about your medical history, including current medications and any existing health conditions.
- You should stop taking blood thinners one week prior to treatment, as these medications can increase the risk of bruising and swelling.
- It is suggested to stop your retinol treatment two days before treatment.
- Eat a healthy breakfast on the day of treatment so that you feel your best and aid in preventing side effects.
Following your Botox injection, you will be provided with comprehensive directions about what you should and should not do during the aftercare period.
After treatment:
- Avoid irritating the injection site. While attempting normal facial expressions is encouraged, you should avoid rubbing or applying pressure to your face.
- Do not work out or physically exert yourself for at least 4 hours after treatment. Physical activity raises blood pressure, increases the risk of bruising and swelling, and may also increase the risk of Botox spreading to other areas.
- Protect your skin. You should avoid UV and heat exposure. You should avoid direct sunlight and other heat-inducing activities such as saunas and steam rooms. Make sure to wear sunscreen and other skin protection measures if you do venture outdoors.
- Do not consume alcohol for at least 24 hours, as it could increase the risk of bruising.
- Avoid blood thinners for at least an additional two days following treatment.
- Continue not to use retinol for at least two days.
If you want to know more about activities you should and should not do before and after Botox injections, please get in touch with our office to learn more.
