Debunking Common
Myths about
Botox

We asked Dr. Sanghe of Wave Skin Care to help debunk some common myths and misperceptions about Botox. Here’s our conversation with him where Dr. Sanghe separates fact from fiction as it relates to Botox for medical aesthetics.

Myth #1: Botox can cause the loss of facial expressions 

Dr. Sanghe: False. When done properly, Botox is an extremely precise treatment that is used to target specific areas and muscles such as those creating wrinkles on the forehead or crow’s feet around the eyes. Botox will only relax the muscles at these specific treatment points. So, you will still be able to display most of your facial expressions. However, Botox should always be administered by a trained medical professional to ensure it is injected correctly to maintain the harmony of the muscles and the natural balance of the face.

Myth #2: Botox works immediately 

Dr. Sanghe: False. The initial effects of muscle relaxation will begin in approximately 2 days. However, the complete relaxation of the muscles can take up to 5-7 days. Resolution of the wrinkles may take longer and is dependent on the individual patient. This depends on age, extent of the wrinkles and if prior Botox treatments had been done. For prevention, it is advised to start Botox treatments at the early signs of new wrinkle formation.

Myth #3: Botox is only used to relax wrinkles 


Dr. Sanghe: False. Botox injections are well-known for their ability to smooth the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles in the face. However, Botox is also used to treat conditions such as corrective eye alignment, reducing neck and shoulder pain, controlling excessive sweating, and treating overactive bladders. Botox injections are also known to effectively treat chronic migraines and TMJ pain.

Myth #4: Botox and fillers are pretty much the same thing 

Dr. Sanghe: False. Botox and dermal fillers are not the same.  Botox is a medication which relaxes muscles that create facial wrinkles. The effects of Botox last for 4-6 months and like all drugs, is eliminated naturally by the body. Dermal fillers are products which are used to replace volume loss in the face to maintain a youthful appearance. Fillers are based on synthetic elements and naturally occurring substances we have in our bodies such as hyaluronic acid. Both dermal fillers and Botox are used in conjunction to contour, lift and maintain the natural balance of the face.

Myth #5: Botox is only for older people 

Dr. Sanghe: False. Traditionally, people have viewed Botox as a treatment for the appearance of age-related lines and wrinkles. However, people in their 20s are now turning to Botox as a way of preventing wrinkles from happening in the future. In fact, since 2010, Botox injections have increased in people between the ages of 20 to 29 by 32 percent. In Canada, patients must be 18 years or older to be able to receive Botox treatments.

Myth #6: If you stop getting Botox, your facial lines only get worse 

Dr. Sanghe: False. When you stop using Botox, your muscles will eventually start working just as they did before you began the treatment. However, your muscles and your skin do not make up for lost time by accelerating wrinkle formation. In fact, during the time a patient uses Botox, the effects of aging or wrinkle formation slows down. However, patients will continue to see anti-aging benefits even after the treatments subside. These benefits will obviously be optimized by starting your Botox journey early for prevention and then to maintain its long-lasting effects. 

Myth #7: Botox is unsafe and can build up in your body over time

Myth #8: Botox can be injected by anyone


 Dr. Sanghe: False. Botox is becoming more accessible than ever, but it is important to remember that it is a prescription drug that should always be handled with great care and precision. Injecting patients with Botox is considered a medical treatment. Therefore, for your own safety, Botox should only be administered by a well-experienced, qualified, and certified medical practitioner. When used properly, Botox results in a natural and balanced appearance by relaxing facial wrinkles. However, improper use can lead to improper movement of the facial muscles.

About Dr. Parminder Sanghe

Wave Skin Care founder and Medical Director, Dr. Sanghe has been providing patients with natural-looking medical aesthetic treatments since 2003. With over 20 years of first-hand expertise and experience, Dr. Sanghe is a masterful injector and is the gold standard in non-surgical, corrective, and restorative skin care treatments in BC. Dr. Sanghe is highly committed to the advancement of the medical aesthetics industry in BC. He regularly participates in world-class medical aesthetic education and training programs to get the latest insights on the ground-breaking innovations in the industry. He received his Bachelor of Science and Medical Degree from the University of British Columbia (UBC).