Joel Schlessinger M.D.

Dr. Joel Schlessinger recently wrote an article for Practical Dermatology called “Neurotoxin Tips for Beginners and Advanced Users.” In this article, he discusses many tips that dermatologists and cosmetic surgeons can use in their own practices to hone the craft of neurotoxin injections.

Neurotoxins like Botox, Dysport and Xeomin are commonly used in many cosmetic surgery offices around the nation. Over five million Botox treatments have been performed since its introduction in 2002. Dr. Joel Schlessinger performs many injections every day in his clinic.

Dr. Joel Schlessinger provides tips for beginners and advanced users of neurotoxins.

In the article, Dr. Joel Schlessinger gives many tips to help physicians and patients receive the perfect result from their neurotoxin injection.

Many patients expect to see results right away after a neurotoxin injection, but this isn’t the case with some deeper wrinkles.

“When confronted with a patient with deep lines, I tell them that the lines will go away very slowly with neurotoxin alone, but if I use both a filler and a neurotoxin, then the benefit will be much greater,” said Dr. Joel Schlessinger.

The type of needle used to make the injection can also affect the quality of the procedure, Dr. Joel Schlessinger explains.

“The 30-gauge needles that come with Juvederm Ultra Plus are especially good and almost always come with two per syringe, so I put them aside and use them for my neurotoxin patients.”

Sometimes, drooping can occur after an injection that can be counteracted with an antidote. However, Dr. Joel Schlessinger notes that it is important to do the injection correctly the first time to avoid use of an antidote.

“It is always important to be careful to not inject too close to the eyebrow centrally and use less, rather than more, neurotoxin,” he said. “Additionally, be careful with patients where forehead droop is likely to occur, resulting in brow ptosis.”

Dr. Joel Schlessinger also discussed the right terminology to use when discussing neurotoxins with patients. He says to avoid terms such as “paralysis,” “frozen,” or “dead” as these can bring bad images into a patient’s mind.

“I use ‘relaxed,’ ‘refreshed,’ and ‘rejuvenated’ to promote a happier image,” said Dr. Joel Schlessinger.

Learn more about neurotoxins from these studies performed by Dr. Joel Schlessinger

Besides running a dermatology and cosmetic surgery clinic, Dr. Joel Schlessinger also runs the Advanced Skin Research Center in Omaha, Neb. Here, he performs research on a number of skin conditions and pharmaceutical drugs. Read about some of his recent studies that involve neurotoxins here:

• Dr. Joel Schlessinger analyzes long-term safety data of Botox for the treatment of glabellar lines
• Dr. Joel Schlessinger studies the long-term effects of botulinum toxin type A
• Joel Schlessinger MD published as part of a consensus study on AbobotulinumtoxinA.

What tips do you have for neurotoxins? Share them with us in the comments.