Off the top of your head I am sure you can rattle off quite a few people in the public eye who have taken their drive to maintain their looks too far, (not mentioning any names Ms. Rivers). Their wide-eyed, shocked expressions make it hard to tell what their feeling since they seem to have lost the ability to convey any emotion on their face.
Botulism? Paralyzing? Filling? It’s enough to make anyone a bit apprehensive about having anything injected into their face. Gene Rubinstein, M.D. of the Dermatology and Laser Centre of Studio City assures that in the hands of the right doctor, there is no need to worry.
First off, achieving an obviously fake look would be way too expensive. Most people do not have the income to support a Botox habit that would paralyze so many muscles in the face. And it would take upwards of $7,000 in fillers to make your features so plump it looks as though you’ve had an allergic reaction.
Before it even got to the point of “too much” any respectable doctor would step in. For most physicians, the primary goal is to make the patient happy. Dr. Rubinstein says no doctor should pressure you in to spending too much or getting more treatments than you feel comfortable with.
If you do feel like you are talking more to a salesman than a physician, Dr. Rubinstein suggests leaving the office immediately and looking for a new dermatologist. It is neither safe nor healthy to agree to a session that you are not 100% comfortable with. Don’t be afraid to trust your instincts.
Anyone with a medical degree is legally able to administer many cosmetic procedures including Botox injections. But if you wouldn’t let your dentist set a broken leg, then why let your gynecologist inject Botox? Before even stepping into their office, conduct a background check on your perspective doctor. The Internet makes it extremely easy to check which schools the person attended and what organizations they are approved by and a part of.
The first place to check on credentials is the American Academy of Dermatology. All licensed dermatologists should be listed with the organization. If you don’t find the name of your doctor, that should raise the first red flag.
A number of organizations have the most experienced and well-practiced dermatologists as members. By asking your doctor directly or browsing his personal website, determine if he is a member of any or all of the following: The American Society for Laser Medicine and Surgery Inc. (ASLMS); American Society of Cosmetic Dermatology and Aesthetic Surgery; American Society for Dermatologic Surgery (ASDS).
Most importantly, it is your money and your body. The best thing you can do for yourself is be an educated consumer. While nobody is perfect and your doctor may not be able to please every patient he or she has, read reviews about them in online forums. If an overwhelming number of prior patients warn and plead for you not to trust a particular doctor, chances are they may be onto something.
Once in the office, your doctor should go over the entire procedure and all your options before the session starts, especially if you are a new patient. This is your time to ask any questions. Don’t know why the doctor is suggesting a particular dosage? Ask. Worried that you may have a reaction? Tell him about it.
In the end, one procedure won’t take you from looking fabulous to looking freaky. If you have done your homework and feel confident in your decision, then you shouldn’t be fearful.
The information in the article is not intended to substitute for the medical expertise and advice of your healthcare provider. We encourage you to discuss any decisions about treatment or care with an appropriate healthcare provider.
