For years women have been using BOTOX® to reduce wrinkles and therefore the signs of aging. As it turns out more men are now seeking BOTOX® as well. Most men, however, are very practical and accept cosmetic surgery for different reasons . . . but not always.

Men are now looking for ways to boost their self esteem and confidence in new ways. Whereas previously men looked toward material objects as signs of success, many now see cosmetic surgery as a sign of privilege and affluence. At least 225,000 BOTOX® treatments were performed for men in 2012. BOTOX® has been around for more than 20 years, so why have so many men started to use BOTOX® and other cosmetic procedures recently?

Social scientists have a few suggestions:

  • Cosmetic surgery has become more accessible with less prohibitory prices in the past 20 years.
  • Gender roles have become less rigid and what was previously considered a women’s domain, and visa versa, has blurred. It is now more acceptable for men to have BOTOX®.
  • The baby boomer generation is living longer and seems to refuse to age!
  • Men are trying to keep up with their younger looking wives.
  • The competitive job market seems to demand a youthful, more energetic look.

How Long Does Boxtox Last?  Guys, it depends on each individual. Most dudes I know only need to go in 2x a year. There are some however who feel they benefit from more frequent visits, like every 4 months. For the most part however, 2x a year is more than enough. Keep in mind that the result you see is temporary, meaning eventually the Botox will wear off. This means ongoing visits to the provider to help keep your face from wrinkling out.

How Does It Work? Botox is injected into the facial areas where wrinkles appear in very small concentrations. The drug prevents signals from the nerves from reaching these facial muscles, effectively preventing the muscles from getting the signal to contract. For a short period of time (months) these muscles are effectively, paralyzed. Injected Botox prevents the release of acetylcholine, preventing contraction of the muscle cells.The effect of the drug causes a reduction in abnormal muscle contraction allowing the muscles to become less stiff. In plain-speak Botox helps to stop those fine lines and wrinkles starting in the first place and “calms down” the existing lines that currently sit on your face.

Don’t forget, BOTOX® may just be the perfect gift for the man in your life! Give us a call for your free consultation or to set up an appointment this month!