What Is Botox®
Botox is a well known FDA-approved injectable neuromodulator used to reduce wrinkles by relaxing the muscles that cause them. There are several neuromodulator brands available, like Dysport, Xeomin, Jeuveau, and Daxxify. All of these neuromodulators, don’t change the structure of the muscles but gently relax them, which helps smooth out wrinkles and prevent new ones from forming. Our experts will will work closely with you to understand your skin goals and develop a customized treatment plan to determine which brand is the best for you.
History Of Botox®
Botox has been implemented in medicine since 1948 and carries with it one of the safest profiles of all drugs with FDA approval. It was originally used for patients with torticollis (permanently paralyzed necks due to spasm) nad it was first discovered to have benefitial applications in cosmetic surgery in the late 1990’s when unattractive deep furrows between the eyes (referred to as the “angry 11’s”), indelible forehead lines, and crepey crow’s feet, were totally smoothed within 72 hours after having received only droplets of precisely placed Botox in an office setting.
Benefits Of Botox®
One of the goals of proper, elegantly administered Botox is not the removal of all expression from the face! It is used to carefully target certain areas, smooth wrinkles and lines, but to always allow you to make beautiful expressions. Its focus is to minimize the angry expressions that might be present even when you’re not angry. Botox can freshen the face and make you younger looking.
Here are some of the benefits of Botox:
- Reduces Fine Lines and Wrinkles.
- Prevents New Wrinkles.
- Reduces Excessive Sweating (Hyperhidrosis).
- Eases Jaw Tension and TMJ Symptoms.
The effect of these injections in reducing angry and unwanted facial motions tends to brighten up the face and provides our patients with fresh, rested, and rejuvenated look. Another beneficial side effect is that, over time, because the muscles are not used as frequently, they are weakened, and often require fewer treatments.
Used in conjunction with dermal fillers (Restylane, Juvederm, Radiesse, and Sculptra), Dr. Weintraub and his team also performs “Liquid Facelifts,” which not only erase the angry expressions from your face, but also help to revolumize the face and can, in fact, stave off the need for a traditional facelift until much later in life.
Upside Down Botox® Technique
The Upside-Down Botox® technique is a specialized approach developed by Dr. Weintraub to reduce bruising during treatment. This method involves placing the patient in a slight Trendelenburg position—lying back with the head lower than the feet—which causes blood to pool in the head, making the blood vessels more visible and easier to avoid during injections. This significantly decreases the likelihood of bruising, a benefit that’s especially valuable for public-facing individuals such as celebrities and models, and anyone who needs to return to social or professional activities without downtime.
The procedure uses ultra-fine, Japanese-sourced needles—so delicate they’re compared to a strand of baby’s hair—which makes the experience nearly painless and leaves little to no marks on the skin. As a result, you can return to work or resume your daily activities immediately after your session.
The most common treated areas include:
- Horizontal wrinkles of the forehead
- Frown lines or “angry 11’s”
- Crow’s feet
Some patients benefit from more sophisticated uses of injectable Botox as:
- “bunny lines” which creep onto the sides of the nose
- chin dimples
- down-turned “fish mouth”
- platysmal bands (the vertical cords directly under the neck)
- vertical lines around the mouth (“lipstick lines”)
Not only does it provide a safer and more precise way to inject, but it also enhances the comfort level for patients—especially those who are needle-phobic. Being in a reclined, relaxed position can dramatically reduce anxiety, making the entire experience more pleasant. Approximately five to seven days after injection, you should notice a diminution in the ability to move the treated areas and smoother skin with diminution of fine lines.
Precisely placed Botox should last in the vicinity of four months.*
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FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)
What is Botox®?
Botox is a popular, FDA-approved treatment that helps reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. It works by temporarily relaxing the tiny muscles in your face that cause wrinkles when you make expressions, like smiling or frowning. This creates a smoother, more refreshed appearance while still allowing you to look like yourself. Botox is a quick and minimally invasive procedure, often called a “lunchtime treatment,” because it takes only a few minutes and requires no downtime.
How Preventative Is Botox®?
In short: extremely. While there’s no exact formula to determine how many lines and deep wrinkles Botox can prevent over a lifetime, consistent preventative treatments significantly reduce the appearance of lines, ensuring a smoother complexion in the long term. That’s how powerful Botox can be. Whether you’re considering its effectiveness, affordability, or ease of treatment, Botox stands out as one of the most reliable options for maintaining youthful skin.
I am a good candidate for Botox®?
The ideal candidate for Botox is anyone looking to reduce the appearance of dynamic wrinkles—those caused by facial expressions like smiling, frowning, or squinting. Common areas include forehead lines, crow’s feet, and frown lines between the eyebrows.
The best candidates for non-invasive injectable beautification are well-balanced, in good general and mental health, and possess realistic expectations. If you’re unsure whether Botox is right for you, a consultation with an experienced injector can help assess your skin concerns and goals.
When should I start getting botox?
Botox is an investment in your future skin, focused on preventing deeper wrinkles over time. The decision to start is entirely personal—do it for yourself, and only when you feel ready, not due to outside pressure.
Our goal is to address lighter “dynamic” lines that appear with facial expressions before they turn into deeper “static” lines that persist even when your face is at rest. For most people, the ideal time to start treating dynamic lines is between the ages of 25 and 30, though this varies depending on individual skin types.
If you’re unsure about the timing, schedule a consultation and we’d be happy to provide a complimentary wrinkle analysis to help you decide!
How old do I have to be to receive Botox?
There is no set age that dictates when you should start rejuvenative treatments, but Botox is only recommended for individuals 18 years and older. If you meet this criterion and find yourself looking in the mirror at something that genuinely bothers you, it may be the right time to book a consultation. Botox is especially beneficial for adults beginning to notice the early signs of aging or those looking to prevent fine lines from becoming more pronounced.
How do I know which Botox brand is right for me?
There are several neuromodulator brands available, with Botox being the most well-known. Other options include Dysport, Xeomin, Jeuveau, and Daxxify. The best way to determine which brand is right for you is through a consultation. During this session, our expert will review your medical history, address your skin concerns, explain the available options, and outline their benefits. They will work closely with you to understand your skin goals and develop a customized treatment plan. While you may have already noticed areas you’d like to enhance, a consultation provides valuable insights into your skin’s unique needs and helps map out the steps to achieve your desired results.
How many units of Botox do I need?
The number of Botox units needed is highly personalized and depends on several factors, including the areas being treated, the strength of the muscles involved, and your desired results. Some patients aim for subtle wrinkle prevention, refining lines while maintaining natural expressions, while others prefer a more targeted approach focused on treating specific concerns. During your consultation, we’ll work together to find your ideal dose that aligns with your goals. If you’d like to explore what’s right for you, we invite you to book a consultation with us.
What to expect during my Botox treatment?
During your Botox treatment, our expert will start by reviewing your medical history and discussing your skin concerns, goals, and the benefits of the treatment. A private photo may be taken to help track your progress and skin journey over time. While Botox is a non-invasive treatment, it’s essential that it is administered by a skilled practitioner to ensure safe and optimal results. Cold packs will be applied to the treatment area briefly to enhance your comfort. Once your session is complete, you’ll be able to resume your normal activities immediately, as there is no downtime required.
How do I prepare for my Botox® treatment?
Since Botox injections are non-invasive, no extensive preparation is required beforehand. However, it’s recommended to avoid aspirin, aspirin-containing medications, blood thinners, and gingko biloba or fish oil supplements for one week prior to your treatment. Additionally, steer clear of strenuous exercise, ibuprofen, aspirin, and alcohol for 24-48 hours before your appointment, as these may increase the likelihood of bruising.
What are the aftercare instructions following Botox?
- Avoid strenuous exercise, massaging the treated area, ibuprofen, aspirin, or alcohol for 24-48 hours, as these may increase the risk of bruising.
- For mild soreness or tenderness, Tylenol is safe to take.
- It is safe to apply skincare and/or makeup after your treatment.
- Avoid lying face down for 4 hours following the procedure.
- Swelling is a common response from the skin, though you may not even notice it. Treatment points are typically very fine—about the size of a freckle—and usually resolve within 30 minutes. Do not massage them!
- Bruising and swelling are possible but typically subside after a few days. Applying arnica can help alleviate any bruising.
Following these aftercare instructions will help ensure the best results and a smooth recovery.
How often should I do Botox?
Our specialists will design a personalized treatment plan and recommend the ideal frequency of visits to help you achieve your unique skin goals. We recommend a follow-up appointment 2 weeks after your initial treatment to allow the product to fully settle. If any asymmetry is observed or if there is more muscle movement than desired, a complimentary touch-up can be performed at this time. For optimal, long-lasting results, we typically advise scheduling wrinkle-reducing treatments every 3-4 months.
Is Botox painful?
Any discomfort experienced is typically mild and can be easily managed. We use ice and various pain distraction techniques to minimize any discomfort, ensuring that you feel as comfortable as possible throughout the process.
How much does Botox cost?
Our goal is to deliver the highest level of care and results.
Each patient is individual in his/her own makeup and anatomical configuration. Therefore, in order to give an accurate quote, it is best to schedule a consultation that will allow Dr. Weintraub to appropriately judge what is involved. For those patients who live overseas or outside the New York metropolitan area, photographs can be emailed or sent to the office, and a phone consultation can then take place.
What other treatments can I pair with Botox?
Botox is highly versatile and can be combined with other treatments to enhance your overall results.
- Liquid Facelift: Pair Botox with dermal fillers to create a liquid facelift, lifting and contouring the face without surgery. While Botox smooths fine lines and softens wrinkles, fillers add volume to areas like the cheeks, lips, and under-eye hollows for a refreshed and youthful look.
- Laser Treatments: Lasers, such as skin resurfacing or IPL, work beautifully alongside Botox. While Botox targets dynamic wrinkles, laser treatments improve skin texture, even out skin tone, and address pigmentation or acne scars, creating a smooth and radiant complexion.
Combining these treatments allows for a more comprehensive approach to facial rejuvenation, helping you achieve glowing, youthful skin with minimal downtime. Always consult your practitioner to design a treatment plan tailored to your unique goals.
What is social downtime?
Social downtime refers to the period of recovery after a procedure where you may not be able to fully engage in social activities, but your regular daily routine is generally unaffected. You can return to your routine immediately after your appointment, however, it’s recommended to schedule your treatment well in advance of any major events.
Can I receive Botox while pregnant or nursing?
Botox is not recommended during pregnancy or while breastfeeding, as there is limited research on its safety in these situations. It is always best to consult with your healthcare provider before undergoing any cosmetic treatments if you are pregnant or nursing to ensure the safety of both you and your baby.
Why choose a plastic surgeon office for Botox?
Choosing a plastic surgeon for Botox offers several key advantages:
- Expertise in Facial Anatomy.
- Customized Treatment Plans.
- Access to Advanced Techniques.
- High Standards of Care.
When looking for a plastic surgeon, you should:
- Check for board certification by the American Board of Plastic Surgery (there are many other boards, some legitimate, some not, but there is only one American Board of Plastic Surgery, established in 1931)
- Ensure that the physician attends a major hospital in your community, and is in good standing with that hospital
- Confirm that he or she has a fine reputation amongst other medical professionals in your community
- Speak to the surgeon’s patients who have undergone similar procedures
Remember, this is your treatment, and you are interviewing the doctor as much as he’s interviewing you. Do not hesitate to bring a list of questions with you on your consultation. And remember: a good surgeon is someone who not only has the skill to perform the treatment, but is someone who understands what your specific needs and desires are. A good surgeon should listen, listen, and listen!
Have no fear during your consultation. This is a time to speak, to be heard, and to develop a trusting relationship. Questions can be answered, and fears allayed. And while Dr. Weintraub is at the forefront of his field in terms of his techniques and medical developments, you will find his office environment to be warm, personable, and inviting. He and his staff truly care about each and every patient, and take great pride in making themselves available to help with every step of the process.
What sets Dr Weintraub apart?
Dr. Weintraub has always been blessed with a strong aesthetic sense. He possesses a unique blend of medical science and artwork, as it truly is artwork that he performs on the human form. His attention to detail ensures that he gets the best results possible, and he is meticulous about everything he does, from pre-op to post-op care and beyond.
He studied medicine at Cornell during a time when core values were emphasized, and it is on these values that he bases his practice. He believes that physicians should be humble and respectful, and should never lose sight that the person they are operating on is exactly that: a person possessing real-life issues and concerns. The chairmen of the department of general surgery at Cornell at the time, Dr. Tom Shires, along with another luminary, Dr. Leon Morgenstern of Cedars-Sinai, taught Dr. Weintraub that “The operating room is a sacred place. It’s a very serious place.Never be cavalier about surgery.”
During his surgical residency training, Dr. Weintraub regularly visited Mexico to donate his time operating on deformed children and adults who couldn’t afford proper healthcare. In less-than-optimal conditions, he learned how to perform surgery with the basics, and received great satisfaction in making profound differences in people’s lives by restoring their faces and bodies. Similarly, when he was Chief Resident at the New York Hospital – Cornell Medical Center, and later when he was Chief Resident at the Reconstructive Unit at Memorial Sloan-Kettering, he found that his compassion for patients, along with his skill and precision as a surgeon, could change lives and bring people joy they never thought possible.
Dr. Weintraub believes that surgery is never a race. The patient is always number one. He keeps in his wallet a piece of paper that is his motto in the operating room: “Always demand what is right, and never accept second best.” He likes to consider himself a “thinking surgeon,” and does not enter the operating room with a mechanical series of steps to execute robotically, but likes to remain alert and ready for whatever intraoperative challenges might spontaneously arise. Although many notable surgeons openly listen to music while performing surgery, Dr. Weintraub does not, preferring the mood of the operating room to remain serious and focused.
Over 60% of Dr. Weintraub’s practice is comprised of complex redos of surgeries performed by other offices. Such procedures always involve difficult issues, since there exist not only the limitations of a patient’s own anatomy, but also the limitations of another surgeon’s aesthetic, and the scar tissue that has developed as a result. Patients seek Dr. Weintraub from all over the world to correct their aesthetic problems. He takes great pride in getting the best results, and always enjoys the challenges of such procedures.
Last, Dr. Weintraub will not hesitate to turn patients away if he feels they are not good candidates for surgery. If a surgery is not in someone’s best interest, he will be the first to say so. However, when a patient is a good candidate, the results produced by Dr. Weintraub can be magical, and he feels that it is an honor to give patients a gift they can enjoy for the rest of their lives.