There is widespread knowledge about the use of neuromodulators (such as Botox, Dysport, and Xeomin) in the treatment of unwanted wrinkles. However, many people are unaware of the use of these injections to reduce the appearance of our gums when we smile. A gummy smile is often the result of extremely strong upper lip muscles. These muscles pull the lip upward when smiling, resulting in a lot of gum showing. By injecting neuromodulators into the upper lip muscles, the muscles are forced to relax and weaken. This causes the muscles to work less and prevents them from over-raising the upper lip, reducing gum exposure when smiling.
Frequently Asked Questions
The effects of neuromodulators last, typically, up to 6 months after injection. With more treatments, the frequency of injections decreases, and effects of neuromodulators can last between even longer than 6 months.
Using a finely-gauged needle, Botox, Dysport, or Xeomin is injected directly into the muscle. The procedure is relatively painless with the injections feeling similar to small pinpricks. There is typically no need for any anesthetic medications. Patients are able to drive directly after the procedure. Patients are asked to avoid lying down and exercising for 4-6 hours following the procedure to ensure that the product remains within the desired muscle for optimal results.
Side effects from BOTOX® Cosmetic, if any occur, are usually mild and temporary. Botulinum contains proteins that, in rare circumstances, may be naturally safeguarded against by the body’s ability to produce antibodies. If antibodies are formed, the therapy will generate a lesser response. Temporary bruising sometimes is experienced but resolves within two to three days. In rare cases, there can be a slight asymmetry of expression. If this should happen, return to our office for evaluation and correction. During your consultation with our staff, please let us know if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
Typically, the effects of Botox, Xeomin, and Dysport are visible within three days. Maximum benefits are reached between ten to fourteen days. Once the muscle becomes weakened and the skin softens, patients notice a more relaxed smile and less gum exposure.
BOTOX® Cosmetic is a therapeutic muscle-relaxing agent derived from a bacterium called Clostridium Botulinum. For over a decade, ophthalmologists have employed BOTOX® Cosmetic for its original intention; the treatment of blepharospasm (abnormal blinking or eyelid tic). Physicians also have been utilizing BOTOX® Cosmetic for years as a cosmetic treatment for correcting visible signs of stress and aging.
The contractions and movements of our facial muscles are controlled by signals from the brain. Botox, Dysport, and Xeomin simply prevents these muscles from allowing responses to such signals. As a result, the muscles relax and weaken, leaving you with a less gummy smile.
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