For fun, I like to see trends. And I like to use the functionality of an old Excel spreadsheet. I use Excel 2003 – it just seems most comfortable to me. I have updated version of Excel which I use but I still always seem to go back to the 2003 version. Just my preference. I make these charts based on data from Allergan’s Brilliant Distinctions – I also keep track of other Botox Statistics related to our Modesto Botox Practice. I also have 2013 Modesto Botox Statistics. I’m getting ready for 2014 Botox Statistics, but 2014 isn’t completely over yet. In fact November isn’t over yet either, but the next working day is Dec 1, 2014.
The Botox Patient Monthly Chart
Botox Patients Per Month. Click larger.
The dip in September 2014 for Botox patients is due to a two week vacation away from the office. The much of the vacation was work related. With visits to other Botox practitioners, Acupuncture centers, and Qi-Gong lessons.
The orange arrow was drawn in by hand; there was no mathematical method done for the rendering of that line.
December 2014 is missing from the chart because December hasn’t come about yet.
It’s interesting to see that the growth so far seems to be linear.
The chart starts with the very beginning of 2011 where a large part of my practice included General Surgery, Veins, and Acupuncture.
In 2011, the average number of BOTOX patients per month was 22.5
In 2012, the average number of BOTOX patients per month was 42
In 2013, the average number of BOTOX patients per month was 60
In 2014, the average number of BOTOX patients per month is 82.9
We await December to finalize the 2014 number above.
BOTOX Predictions
This linear growth will start to level off in 2015. Why? Because I am totally running out of appointment slots. That’s fine with me. I’ve made peace with the idea that I’m not aiming to be busier. I just am just aiming for higher quality with each visit. I’m looking forward to December 2014, and a New Year 2015!
Basically BOTOX shuts down the signal (this signal can be thought of as “WiFi” for your phone) between nerve and muscle. There is no alteration of the muscle – just like when the WiFi signal is shut off, there is no alteration to your cell phone.
I’ve come up with this original analogy one day when talking to a patient who was cellular phone sales person. WiFi is a trademark name and is considered at this point, any wireless local area network for computers.
First, in general, how does BOTOX work?
What’s the mechanism of action for Botox? Botox prevents the tensing up of muscles. The word “tensing” could be also be considered “contracting.”
Medical professionals consider BOTOX to be one of the most effective ways to maintain youthful beauty.
In more detail: how is Acetylcholine involved with BOTOX?
Acetylcholine is the signal for muscle contraction.
Botox reduces the release of acetylcholine from the nerve endings. It is the acetylcholine, which is a neutrotransmitter messenger, which tells the muscles to contract. Without the acetylcholine released, the muscles stay in a more relaxed configuration because it doesn’t get that signal for contraction.
Thus, the real analogy is that Acetylcholine is the Wi-Fi signal
Acetylcholine carries the signal for muscle contraction. Just like WiFi carries the signal for my internet connection. Botox works on reducing the signal.
Anyway, that analogy is a fun one, and I’ve enjoyed using it in my explanations in my Botox Consultations at my Modesto Botox Center: Surgical Artistry.
So, muscles cause wrinkes?
Yes and No. Yes, muscle CONTRACTION causes wrinkles. Thus if we cut the signal for muscle CONTRACTION, the wrinkle isn’t crinkled. But the muscle by itself in a relaxed state does not cause wrinkles. So the key word here is contraction.
Disclaimer: I am by no means trying to say that Botox gives you a better WiFi signal.
That would be interesting and probably very useful – but it doesn’t work that way. I was just trying to use some real life examples to explain Botox to my patients. Please see your Botox doctor, nurse, or aesthetician in person for a personalized discussion. There is no patient-doctor relationship set up by reading this article. Nothing here is medical advice. This is just generalized information.
As of the writing of this Botox blog which is November, 23, 2014. Cosmetic Botox on the face is FDA approved for use in the glabellar complex and the crows feet. The glabellar complex is sometimes known as the “11’s” or the frown lines between the eyes. It is made up of more than one muscle – thus it’s a complex of muscles. And the crows feet, sometimes called fish tail, area of the eyes is the lateral wrinkles to the sides of the eyes.
How about other areas of the face for Botox Injections?
These two areas constitute the FDA approved areas for facial Botox in a cosmetic sense. There are other areas on the face – in fact many other areas – which have not received FDA approval, but these have been commonly done for the past decade. And Botox injections in these other areas of the face is considered off label FDA for Botox usage.
Getting Botox in Modesto, CA
Please consider visiting your Botox injector for one-on-one discussions. If you are near us, consider visiting our Botox practice in Modesto, CA. And if not us (Surgical Artistry), then there are these other places in Modesto to get Botox. The Botox listing of injectors is not an endorsement; it is just a courtesy listing of other practices in Modesto who offer Botox.
Belotero offers a dual cross-linking process of the hyaluronic acid which offers a natural-even integration into the dermis.
This Belotero page is for Botox/Belotero injectors. And I’ve decided to call this Belotero injection method the “aerial dive bombing technique.”
I have my own version of this technique, but it’s more of a “submarine missile attack” (more on this someother day). Actually I personally think that my idea is superior – well at least in my small hands.
Injection technique with BELOTERO BALANCE is simple and accurate
When injecting using the serial puncture technique, it is important to remember the following:
Penetrate the dermis just until the bevel of the needle is hidden.10
The needle’s bevel measures 0.75 mm in length.*
Typically, the dermis measures approximately 1.8 mm in depth.
Once the bevel is buried, filler can then be deposited accurately within the dermis.
Then repeat the process multiple times per wrinkle line.
*Bevel measurement based on the needle included with the BELOTERO BALANCE syringe kit.
We get this question from time to time regarding matching the lowest price of Botox or Juvederm. It isn’t a common question, but it comes up perhaps once per month or so. I figure it’s worth addressing.
This is not a blog about different Botox-like substances or Botox from other countries. We receive our Botox directly from Allergan USA, that ensures that it is genuine. So back to the topic of “Lowest Price for Botox?”
So, do we price match or compete on pricing?
The quick answer is “No.”
But we like to compete on “value”. But in the end, we don’t see this as a competition. We have a lot of respect for everyone. We have set prices that make sense to us.
So the long answer is that we hope that we are considered the “best value.” But all this depends on what patients value. It might be different than what I might value. So I can definitely understand different definitions of value when it comes to Botox injections.
Surgical Artistry doesn’t emphasize or compete with “cheapest” prices.
Botox didn’t work. I still have those creases between the eyes!
I hear this problem from time to time. Botox has a hard time with certain creases in the glabellar complex – and also in the crows feet. Why? because for me, it doesn’t seem to work very well on static lines.
Static lines vs. Dynamic lines: this is the reason
Dynamic lines are wrinkles that are created with movement. Static lines are wrinkles which are present even when the muscle is at rest – relaxed. Botox main mechanism is to relax the muscle. Although, I have seen Botox’s effect on possibly tightening skin – but that’s a different topic.
Botox works best on Dynamic lines
By relaxing the muscles, the dynamic lines diminish. However, Botox has a harder time relaxing static lines.
Dynamic Lines eventually become Static Lines
It seems to me that most dynamic lines eventually becomes static lines. Thus Botox works amazingly well in my opinion in preventing static lines. This effect of Botox is one of it’s best uses.
So what can we do about these stubborn Static Lines? More Botox?
I also believe that with some patience static lines can diminish over regular usage of Botox – perhaps after the 3rd or 4th time of getting Botox over 1 year. I wouldn’t let too much time lapse between botox treatments. I don’t think necessarily MORE botox per session is the answer – but perhaps more diligent usage of Botox – or perhaps a more “disciplined” approach to Botox scheduling. Don’t forget to schedule your Botox Appointment with us in Modesto, CA.
Consider fillers or more time to help with these stubborn wrinkles.
So if time is on your side, and you can wait it out – consider waiting a bit to see if Botox will assist your body in repairing these deep static wrinkles. However, if there’s a deadline (special event coming up), some of our patients would consider dermal fillers such as Belotero or Juvederm. Much of this use would be considered off-Label-FDA usage. Dermal fillers within the wrinkles will help smooth them out!
Disclaimer: please see your physician in person for personalized recommendations. Above is just an academic discussion of wrinkles, Botox, and Fillers. I have also encountered lines which just didn’t seem to be helped much with either Botox or Fillers – the human body is certainly very challenging, and keeps our jobs as Botox injectors very interesting. Here’s a list of Modesto Botox Injectors – but of course, I hope you choose our practice (Surgical Artistry in Modesto).
I got this letter below from Allergan on 11-19-14 (today) addressing the merging of Actavis and Allergan. Allergan wanted to stress that they would continue a high quality of research and development as they had before. Karla from our office sent me a copy of this email which she got, and she wrote that “It looks like Allergan will become part of Actavis soon. This email confirms it and reaffirms their commitment to continuing research and development.”
Here’s the letter from Allergan, the makers of our cherished Botox, Juvederm, and Latisse. For more information about these products, visit our Modesto Botox and Juvederm page.
The fight over Botox!
November 19, 2014
To our valued customers:
As announced in a press release earlier this week, we are pleased to share that Actavis and Allergan have entered into a definitive agreement under which Actavis will acquire Allergan in a deal valued at approximately $66 billion. Bringing our two companies together represents a powerful strategic combination, creating a dynamic, top 10 global pharmaceutical company.
We anticipate that the acquisition will close in 2Q 2015. Until then, it will be business as usual, with no impact to our operations or the high quality of service that you have come to expect from Allergan. Once the transaction closes, we will notify you of any relevant changes, and it is our goal to minimize any possible impact this could have on you, your patients, and our employees.
Like us, the Actavis culture is centered around innovation and customer service, and investment in R&D will remain one of the top priorities of the integrated company. The combined company will offer a broad portfolio of products in Eye Care, CNS/Neurosciences, Medical Aesthetics/Dermatology/Plastic Surgery, Gastroenterology, Women’s Health and Urology and Anti-infective therapeutic categories, as well as the highest quality generic, branded-generic and Over-the-Counter products. The combined company will provide an exceptional level of R&D support, with approximately $1.7 billion invested annually in brands, generics and biopharmaceuticals aimed at delivering high quality products to address unmet patient needs.
We want to thank you for your support and to assure you that we remain dedicated to exceeding your expectations and delivering products and services that make a difference to you and your patients. We look forward to sharing more details of our combined products and services in the future. In the meantime, if you have any questions, please contact your sales representative or visit our websites at actavis.com and allergan.com.
Below is the text from the magazine. Thank you very much for the write-up. We were pleasantly surprised with this best cosmetic surgeon award for Surgical Artistry. It’s the first annual Best Of Stanislaus voting for Contentment Health and we were actually out of town when much of the voting was taking place. We never even got a chance to vote for ourselves!
Best Cosmetic Surgeon: Surgical Artistry: Dr. Tammy Wu and Dr. Calvin Lee
BEST COSMETIC SURGEON
SURGICAL ARTISTRY
2336 SYLVAN AVE., STE. C MODESTO
(209) 551-1888 | surgerytoday.com
When you choose to go under the knife, it’s essential to have a surgeon you trust completely in charge of your procedure. When it comes to cosmetic surgery, there are few surgeons in the country as trusted as the experts at Surgical Artistry. Dr. Tammy Wu and Dr. Calvin Lee founded Surgical Artistry in Modesto 11 years ago. The married pair of ivy-league educated surgeons specialize in a full range of cosmetic surgical options to every patient along with procedures including Botox treatments, vein procedures and even acupuncture. Drs. Wu and Lee are known for their exceptional commitment to their patients and uncompromising pursuit of self-improvement. When you’re looking for fantastic plastic surgery or a cosmetic procedure, look no further than Surgical Artistry.
Dr. Tammy Wu, Board Certified Plastic Surgeon in Modesto is the Plastic Surgeon for Surgical Artistry.
One of my Modesto patients who came to me for Botox, said to me that I must not get very much competition because I’m the only Botox injector she has heard of in Modesto. I’m flattered, but I think she is very mislead somehow. As a doctor, I’m always trying to find answers. So I worked on this question of “who else injects Botox in Modesto?” (besides me and my wife – Dr. Tammy Wu, Plastic Surgeon). Much of this comes from online sources on Botox-find-a-doctor from Allergan, and other companies who make neuromodulators such as Xeomin and Dysport. So this is Botox Blog entry is the result of my little online research.
This list may not be complete or may even be out of date. My source of info is directly from my Botox patients from informal conversations. I hope this list will be of help if I am not available, etc.
I’ve included nearby towns such as Oakdale, Ceres and Turlock. These cities are within 25 miles of Modesto, CA (or more narrowly estimated: 20 mile radius). The listing is in no particular order except that I had placed us first on the list, just because I’m the one making the list and that this is my BOTOX Blog. Below is a list of Botox injectors, the list would be longer if I didn’t just focus mainly on Cosmetic Botox injections. There are also neurological (Botox for Migraines), and urological uses for Botox, such as Botox for bladder spasm. But these practitioners are not listed here. On a personal note, I do Botox for migraine headaches and for hyperhidrosis (sweating), but I don’t do any Botox for the bladder.
Modesto Botox Injectors, a rough map from BotoxCosmetic.com. Notice that we’re on the top right corner of the Modesto Map.
Serenity Medspa & Chiropractic – Modesto, Michael Niccole (Orange County)
A Perfect Finnish – Edmund Kemprud, Tracy, CA
Janna Brocchini, NP – Ripon, CA
Gifty Aidoo, NP – Modesto, CA
James J Daley – Ripon, CA
Michael Niccole – Modesto, CA
Joel Felix Ramirez Jr – Riverbank, CA
Alonso Jose Martin Del Campo, MD – Modesto, CA / Serenity
Shirley Van, MD – Dermatologist, Modesto, CA
Nurse Alyssa, – Modesto, CA
Nurse Danielle – Modesto, CA
Nurse Jonna – Modesto, CA
Sheila Dobbins, FNP – Modesto, CA
Kacie Avey, RN – Sacramento, Elkgrove, Modesto – Dr. Enevoldsen’s office, Destination Aesthetics, and lately see below: Tailored Medical Spa in Escalon, CA
Ari Blair, RN – Ripon CA
Linda Tourtlotte – Modesto, CA
Escalon Integrative Health – Escalon, CA
John Bystrom, DC
Urenewed – Ripon, CA
Livewell – Turlock, CA
Kacie Avey – Tailored Medical Spa, Escalon, California founded August 2020.
Edward Joseph Stanford, MD – Modesto, CA with Serenity Med Spa & Chiropractic
Christian Constantin Jones, MD – Turlock, CA – Golden State Dermatology
Dr. Muazzum Aman – Escalon, CA
Dr. Ali – Lodi and Modesto, Medical Director of Lux Beauty
Basically Kaiser and Sutter Gould above make up many different Botox injectors, not just one per group. Thus in general, I would say that there’s more than 35 injectors of Botox in the Modesto area. 35+ places to choose in Modesto to get your Botox injections.
Thus when people ask me where else they can get Botox injections in Modesto, I should tell them that there are more than 35 other places to get Botox in Modesto, and then direct them to this page. Although I would secretly hope that they would stay or come to my office for Botox.
Sources of info for Modesto Botox injectors (and Dysport and Xeomin)
“Modesto BOTOX” web searches as well as “BOTOX Modesto” searches.
Personal phone calls which I’ve received from other Botox injectors in Modesto.
Personal communication with patients who have received Botox in Modesto.
This list will change from time to time and may not be up to day and may not even be all that accurate. But perhaps this will be of use to you if you are looking for Botox injections and Botox injectors in Modesto, California! I’ve also included Dysport and Xeomin into this list in case people are looking for those products as well.
Frown lines between eyes (glabellar complex) = 11’s
Crows Feet
Eyebrow lifting
Lower eyelid lines
Forehead wrinkles
Neck vertical bands
Jowel reduction
Square face reduction
TMJ – jaw pain
Headaches – tension headaches and migraine headaches
Sweating under arms and in hands = hyperhidrosis
Muscular triggerpoints in the back and other muscles such as calf
Botox for Neck pain related to muscles
Many of the listed about procedures are considered off-label FDA usage of Botox. Please consider seeing your own medical doctor regarding Botox personalized injections – everyone is unique and has different Botox needs and requirements.
