Questions & Answers

Dr. Hollis answers some of your questions below.

Q: Post Rhinoplasty: nasal muscle seems to push my nose down – can Botox help?
I had rhinoplasty 9 month ago, 12 weeks after surgery my nasal muscle is pushing down on my nose. Would Botox help by weakening the muscle?

A: Botox can selectively weaken any muscle injected.
If your nose tends to plunge when smiling or during speech then weakening a particular muscle under your nose and into the centre fleshy part of the nose (between the nostrils) may just prevent the tip from plunging down. Otherwise the problem may be structural and need surgery. I’d discuss this with your surgeon and be specific with him about your concerns so there is no misunderstandings. Good luck.

Q: Is Botox or Filler better for correcting lip asymmetry?
I have a genetic condition the has resulted in one side of my face growing shorter than the other. I’ve had jaw realignment, which has drastically improved things, but I still have asymmetry in my lips that bothers me. I had Juvederm 6 months ago, and while it plumped them, one side still appeared to droop. I’ve also had a fat transfer, but the results didn’t last. Can Botox correct this? Is it better for asymmetries than Fillers?

A: Botox can be wonderful but it isn’t for everyone.
Your photo shows very minor asymmetry so I’d suggest you do nothing. If you must try something, please give us photos that are directly face forward and with you in a pose with the lips slightly separated and also a photo with a modest (not overly strong) smile. This way we can try to sort out the asymmetry better because you will be showing us neutral as well as dynamic action of your lips.

Q: Droopy, sagging eyelids what can be done?
I’m only 22 years old, but am considering getting something done about my heavy, droopy eyelids. They make my eyes look very tired and aged, and I am not happy with their appearance at all. What would be the best way to fix this? And what would the average cost be?

A: We need good photos to review.
Your photos are not helpful. Looking sideways to the right and the left can give anyone this appearance. Full head on photos are needed to evaluate your eyes. All in all I’d say you need no surgery.

Q: How long is the healing time for Laser Blepharoplasty in order to look normal?
I would like to have a Laser Blepharoplasty double eyelid surgery but I am afraid of the healing periods. What will the effects be after one week?

A: Blepharoplasty laser incisions heal slower than scalpel incisions.
Laser incisions can be excellent, the bleeding is less and tissue removal can be done precisely. The surgeon needs skill that is different from scalpel handling skill. Sutures need to remain in place about two days longer. I have done numerous blepharoplasties with traditional scalpel surgery and many with cutting laser (C02) and I prefer the scalpel method. I also think the scar is better with scalpel surgery.

Q: If I get 10 units of Botox while nursing is it still safe to continue nursing?

A: Do not use Botox when pregnant or while breast feeding.
Simple answer: No. Safe or not it is not totally determined so why take a chance and end up hurting your infant.