Botox & Neuromodulators in NYC
Dr. Michelle Zweifler is a board-certified plastic surgeon with an office on Park Avenue in Manhattan’s Upper East Side, welcoming patients from across New York City.
Overview
Botox®, Dysport®, Daxxify®, and Xeomin® temporarily relax the small facial muscles responsible for expression lines — crow’s feet, forehead lines, the furrow between the brows — leading to smoother skin. In the right hands, results look like a rested, natural version of you, not a frozen one; Dr. Zweifler’s plastic surgery background informs a precise, conservative approach to placement and dosing.
Am I a Candidate?
Most healthy adults bothered by dynamic wrinkles — lines that appear with expression, like frowning or squinting — are candidates. It’s often used preventively by younger patients as well as correctively by patients with more established lines. Neuromodulators are not recommended if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, have an infection at the injection site, or have certain neuromuscular conditions. Dr. Zweifler will review your health history and goals at your consultation.
The Procedure
Treatment involves a series of small injections directly into the targeted muscles, typically taking about 10–15 minutes with no downtime other than keeping one’s head elevated. In some patients, the brow can be subtly lifted and reshaped as part of treatment. Commonly treated areas include:
- Frown lines between the brows (the “11s”)
- Horizontal forehead lines
- Crow’s feet around the eyes
- Other areas, such as neck bands or the jaw muscles, in select patients
Recovery & Results
There’s no real recovery period — most patients return to normal activities immediately, avoiding vigorous exercise and lying flat for a few hours after treatment. Results appear gradually over three to ten days and typically last three to four months.
Real Patient Results
Frown and Forehead Lines
Before
After
Frown Lines
Before
After
Results shown are examples from Dr. Zweifler’s patients; individual results will vary. Patients’ eyes are covered to protect their privacy.
Frequently Asked Questions
How soon will I see results?
You’ll typically start noticing softened lines within a few days, with full effect by about one to two weeks.
How often do I need treatment?
Most patients return every three to four months as the effect gradually wears off. Over time, some patients find they can space treatments further apart. Daxxify® is a longer-lasting option that may extend results for some patients.
Will I look frozen or unnatural?
No. Dr. Zweifler’s approach is conservative and tailored to your face, with the goal of softening lines while preserving natural expression. Your plastic surgeon’s understanding of facial anatomy is central to getting a rested, natural-looking result rather than a frozen one.
What’s the difference between Botox, Dysport, Xeomin, and Daxxify?
All four are neuromodulators that temporarily relax the muscles that cause expression lines, and they work in a similar way. They differ in their formulation, how quickly they take effect, and how long results tend to last. Dr. Zweifler will recommend the product that best fits your goals, anatomy, and budget.
Does it hurt?
Most patients describe the injections as quick pinches with minimal discomfort. The needles are very fine, and a numbing cream or ice can be used if you’d like extra comfort.
What are the possible side effects and risks?
Common side effects include small bruises or bumps at the injection sites, mild headache, and temporary redness, usually resolving within a day or two. Less common risks include temporary drooping of the eyelid or brow, or asymmetry, which can often be avoided with careful technique and typically resolves as the effect wears off. Neuromodulators are not recommended during pregnancy or breastfeeding, or for patients with certain neuromuscular conditions.
Can younger patients use Botox to prevent wrinkles?
Yes. Many patients in their late twenties and thirties use small, well-placed doses to prevent lines from deepening. Dr. Zweifler will advise whether starting now makes sense for you.
