Botox - Patients ask, Dr. Ringpfeil answers
Please feel free to use the blog below to share information about Botox or to ask Dr. Franziska Ringpfeil a question that might be of interest to others.
Philadelphia and Mainline Center of Dermatology and Cosmetic Surgery
Botox® & Xeomin® In Philadelphia
Botox & Xeomin are among the most popular cosmetic treatments. They work. They are safe. They are predictable and provide noticeable results with virtually no downtime. To learn more about our Botox & Xeomin treatments, contact Ringpfeil Dermatology and book a consultation today.
Please note: Estimates above may vary according to each patient.
Calculator is based on $15/unit. Enjoy a 20% discount if booked on Botox or Xeomin Day.
Pay Less Get More
As one of the largest facilities in Philadelphia, we are able to get better rates from the vendors. This allows us to provide you competitive pricing.
Price List
| price / syringe | lasts (months) | # treatments | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Botox | $16 / unit | 4-6 | 1 |
| Botox Special | $12.8 / unit | 4-6 | 1 |
Botox Price In The Philadelphia Area
Botox price in the Philadelphia area is $13-$27 per unit.
The cost of Botox may be different in the various facility types that offer the procedure.
Most plastic surgeons charge $16-$25 per unit. Almost all plastic surgery offices employ nurse injectors who actually perform the procedure.
Med Spas normally charge between $13-$18 per unit and employ part-time nurses.
Most dermatology offices charge between $15-$22 per unit. Normally, dermatology offices do not employ nurse injectors.
charge by the treated area - Some practices charge by the treated area. Treated areas may include Glabella, forehead, crow's feet, chin, nasolabial folds, and the jawline. This pricing strategy obscures the cost per unit in order to make a comparison harder. Effectively, patients often end up paying more than in other practices.
Our price is $16 per unit or $12.80 per unit during our weekly or monthly BOTOX Special Events. All injection are performed by our Board Certified Dermatologists and Dermatology PAs
Spend Less Get More
Plastic surgeon & Med Spas - Normally employ (temporary) nurses
Dermatology Practices - Employ dermatologists & dermatology-trained PA
Haverford – Mainline Office
Franziska Ringpfeil, MD.
Board Certified Dermatologist
Dr. Ringpfeil: "Botox is so much more than just a wrinkle relaxer. It can help to enhance the attractive features of a face and restore youthfulness."
Philadelphia Office
Marissa Milchak MD.
Board Certified Dermatologist
Dr. Milchak: "I combine art, knowledge, and experience to carefully examine a person's facial features and erase wrinkles and lines that reveal the youthfulness hidden behind them. This can help people look their best and feel more confident."
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Xeomin vs. Other Neuromodulators
- Does not contain protein additives
- Does not trigger the development of antibodies
- Achieves desired results for those who have become resistant to other neuromodulators
Xeomin® is the only pure wrinkle relaxer on the neuromodulator market and has been FDA-approved since 2010.
Its active molecule, botulinum toxin type A, is same as the one in Botox®, yet Xeomin® does not contain protein additives, which are responsible for partial or full resistance to all other neuromodulators over time. In other words, these proteins might prevent the desired effect of Botox®, Dysport®, Jeuveau® and other neuromodulators in 6-7% of individuals, or reduce the desired effect in a subset that is estimated to be far greater than 7%.
Studies published in March 2020 showed that there is no risk of developing antibodies against Xeomin®. This means that patients who have become resistant to other neuromodulators in the past should still experience successful results from Xeomin® injections 10-14 months after their last injection. The effects of Xeomin® injections usually become evident within 3-14 days and can last for 3-6 months. This makes Xeomin comparable to Botox in terms of both onset and duration of action.
Botox Overview
Botox is best for dynamic and mild static lines on the upper face, as well as decreasing pebbly chins, vertical lip lines, and vertical bands that form on some aging necks. It typically lasts between 3-6 months, and the number of units required is determined by the strength of the targeted muscle.
The bacteria-derived toxin is injected into specific muscle groups to relax them and restore a youthful appearance. Only Botox, the US-approved grade of botulinum toxin A, is used in our office. Moderate and severe static lines require several sequential botox treatments to be erased. By erasing these wrinkles, you can enjoy a more youthful and refreshed appearance.
Expected Results
Relaxation of the dynamic face and neck rhytids (wrinkles), which results in a more youthful appearance and smooth, firmer skin.
Post Treatment Instructions
Avoid aspirin and ibuprofen for 1-2 days
Duration of Desired Effects
The final results of the treatment will be visible after 1-2 weeks and typically last for 3-6 months. Those who are satisfied with the effects of the treatment will usually repeat injections every 4 months in order to maintain their results.
Contraindications
Myasthenia gravis, allergies to egg white and kanamycin, pregnancy, and breastfeeding are all contraindications to this treatment.
What Areas Can Botox Treat?
A basic Botox treatment can help to temporarily reduce the appearance of facial wrinkles. More advanced uses of Botox may involve the shaping of certain facial features. If performed conservatively, your family and friends may notice that you look more relaxed and younger, without being able to figure out how you achieved this. Botox treatments can target the following areas and in some cases may be combined with dermal fillers such as Radiesse, Belotaro, and Juvéderm. This can help to create a more comprehensive and long-lasting result.
1
2
3
4
5
6
12
13
Note: Several treatments of Sculptra and Artefill can be used in place of Radiesse for the desired volume correction. Although their upfront cost is higher, fewer treatments are needed in the long run.
To address volume and wrinkles in areas indicated by 7,8,9,10, and 11 see similar illustration on the Dermal Filler Page.
Botox vs Fillers
Unlike fillers, which treat areas of the face where aging has caused volume loss, Botox targets facial wrinkles that are created by dynamic movement. As we age, loss of skin elasticity allows repetitive muscle movement to create a visible crease in the skin. Botox weakens this muscle movement and prevents lines from forming and often reverses wrinkles that have already formed.
BeforeAfter
BeforeAfter
Many people are self-conscious about smiling as it can increase wrinkles over time. However, with every smile, our body releases endorphins which keep us happy. It would be unhealthy not to smile for fear of facial lines. Now, with the help of Botox, we can have a guilt-free smile without fearing that we are deepening the dreaded crow’s feet. With Botox treatments, we can untrain the forehead muscles and those between the brows to no longer look constantly strained or angry.
Botox works best to prevent wrinkles. Once wrinkles are visible at rest it will take some time until the skin returns to its original shape. Deep static lines may need extra help from a filler if they have not resolved after 3 Botox injections 4-6 months apart.
Cosmetic Conditions That Can be Addressed with Botox
The most common areas targeted for wrinkle relaxation are the frown lines between the brows, crow's feet on the outside of the eyes, forehead lines, and vertical lines above and below the lips where lipstick may bleed.
In addition to wrinkle relaxation, the advanced use of Botox allows the shaping and lifting of brows and eyelids. We can up-turn corners of the mouth and soften a puckered chin. We can also reduce prominent vertical bands in the upper neck, minimize a gummy smile and turn a square face into a more triangular one.
Botox is currently FDA-approved for cosmetic use for frown lines between the brows and for the treatment of lines on the outside of the eyes that occur with smiling and squinting. Use in all other areas is off-label, similar to the use of aspirin for the prevention of heart attack or stroke.
Other Brands - Botox vs. Dysport and Xeomin
Botox was the first neuromodulator approved for cosmetic use in the United States and is the only one currently approved for medical diagnoses. Dysport and Xeomin are equivalent neuromodulators that have since been approved by the FDA for wrinkle reduction on the upper face.
Dysport differs from the Botox brand with a slightly smaller molecular size and therefore slightly wider spread. Xeomin is almost identical to Botox but with a slight increase in purity, which reduces the risk of tolerance formation.
Risks and Safety
Cosmetic Botox has an excellent safety profile. You should not receive Botox during pregnancy or while nursing a baby. It is contraindicated in anyone with neuromuscular disorders or with a first-degree relative with a neuromuscular disorder. You should not receive Botox when you are sick. In addition to this, Dysport should be avoided by those with a cow milk allergy.
Why Choose Ringpfeil Dermatology for Botox in Philadelphia?
At Ringpfeil Advanced Dermatology, our team of skincare experts takes the time to understand our patients’ goals in order to produce the best results. Furthermore, our Botox treatments and other therapies are performed by our expertly trained, in-house dermatologists, and dermatology-trained certified physician assistants, ensuring the highest quality of service for our patients.
If you want to learn more about our Botox treatments, contact us and book a consultation today.
FAQs
Is Botox safe?
Botox is an FDA-approved treatment to help combat wrinkles in the face, neck, and other areas. This compound is generally regarded as safe and carries very little risk, as long as the treatment is performed by a certified specialist.
How long does Botox last?
The results obtained through Botox can last anywhere between 3-6 months, after which a patient may require a touch-up session. With this in mind, touch-up sessions will not require as much Botox as the initial treatment.
Is Botox a poison?
Botox is derived from a neurotoxic compound produced by a microorganism called clostridium botulinum. However, as long as it’s administered by a board-certified dermatologist, Botox is completely safe and has a minimal chance of producing adverse side effects.
Does Botox make you look older after it wears off?
After the effects of Botox have completely worn off, patients will return to their prior state. Many patients feel like the treatment results in increased signs of aging, however, there is no evidence to support this idea. Keep in mind that the skin continues to age even while under the effects of Botox, so it’s normal to see a few more wrinkles than before if you have been receiving treatment for a long time.
What is a good age to get Botox?
There is no minimum age to get Botox, but patients in their mid-30s to mid-50s tend to see the best results.
Does the total estimated cost per the calculator for frown lines include the fee for administering the Botox injections also?
Thank you
Yes, our fees include material cost and injection fee.
I just called to confirm my appointment for Botox. I was told that I was not eligible for the special pricing because I am a new patient. Why is this not mentioned on the website?
I was also told that all of a sudden I had to pay $150 upfront as a deposit. Again, why is this not mentioned when I booked the appointment?
I cancelled my appointment. I am very disappointed because I had an extra $50 in rewards that expires on the day my appointment was scheduled for.
I am sorry that you were unable to apply your reward points issued by Allergan at our practce as a new patient. We award our established patients with a 20% discount on designated special days, e.g. first Tuesday of the month in Haverford and Happy Hour times that vary by clinician in Philadelphia. First time evaluation for botulinum toxin takes a little time because we need to get to know you and understand your expectations, and properly examine you. The time frame that we allow for this is longer than the infection itself and “specials days” do not accommodate this. The $150 deposit for a new patient Botox evaluation goes fully toward the procedure/product even if the injection were to be carried out within 30 days from the consultation. In other words, you could schedule the injections on a subsequent “special” day and take advantage of the discounted price.
Hello, I was wondering if you offer botox for treatment of TMJ? Thank you.
We do. Botulinum toxin is an excellent treatment for this condition. It is FDA approved yet it is use in TMJ disease is off label. We inject between 10 and 60 units of botulinum toxin pending the muscle strength at time of examination.
Do you use botox to produce “lip flips” in your office?
WE do.
Hi I have developed jowls and I would like to have that skin tighter to avoid the droopy appearance. I heard Juvederm is something that make work for this . Can you give approximate cost for this procedure.
Mild jowls can be lifted with filler when placed in strategic areas of the upper cheeks, temples or area in front of the ear. The appropriateness, effectiveness, and amount of lifting filler that is needed can be determined after careful in-office examination.
Can Botox be used to reduce masseter muscles for slender chin? Do you perform such procedure?
Yes and yes.
I know that you can do botox for vertical upper lip lines, but have you ever done it for a horizontal line above the upper lip? I am 27 years old, and whenever I smile the skin above my lip and directly below my nose creases (muscle contraction that creates a mustache-like effect if that makes sense). I’ve noticed it a lot more recently, so wasn’t sure if this was something that botox could help with!
There is a 50% chance for successful treatment of horizontal lines above upper lip.
1. i am 27 year old and want to start preventative botox. Do you think it is a good idea? i do notice some lines on my forehead and maybe vertical bands. Will you adjust the dosage because i am fairly young to receive botox?
2. it was also mentioned that you are required to purchase a syringe. How does that work? is it 100 units per syringe? I don’t think i will need 100 units in one go… what would happen with the left overs?
3.Is weight lifting and intensive training going to affect botox?
Botox is truly preventative when weakening muscles on the upper face. Vertical bands are rare in a 27 year old and prevention of these bands is tough to judge. However, they can be treated. Its dose should always be adjusted to the intensity of the muscle. With one exception, our office charges by units injected with a $150 minimum. Full syringe minimums typically refer to filler and not to Botox as it can be sterilly withdrawn from its vial. We recommend not to exercise for 4 hours after receiving cosmetic doses of Botox. After medial doses of Botox, which are generally higher, we restrict heavy duty exercise for a full day.
Do you do botox injections for hyperhidrosis, specifically for excessive sweating in the underarms and if so, approximately how much does that cost and how long do the results last? We have already researched Miradry and do not want to do that procedure because of concerns with possible lasting side effects and we do not want to do any type of drug therapy either. Thank you for your help.
Our office offers Botox treatments for excessive in the armpits and on palms. The effects set in after 3-4 days and last for about 3-4 months. Cost depends on the dose that is needed to achieve results which depends on the degree of hyperhidrosis, and the hair bearing area in the armpit. It can vary between $800 to $1450 for the armpits and between $900 and $1550 for the palms. Most people with excessive sweating in armpits fall at the lower range. Several insurance plans accept Botox treatment for excessive sweating and cover some or most of its cost after pre-certification. Please set up a medical consultation with one of our dermatologists.
Do you offer botox for the scalp to reduce sweating on the head/hairlines?
If so, what is the cost of that treatment?
We treat sweating of the scalp and frontal hairline. Cost is about $1150 if you need 100 units. This treatment is off-label and therefore cannot be submitted to insurance.