All About Botox for Men – Dr. Sibthorpe featured in SLMAN

Would you agree more men are having Botox these days?

Absolutely. Men today are facing increased pressure to look youthful, athletic and masculine. And there’s definitely an increased social acceptability around it. Greater perception of the safety and efficacy of Botox procedures is encouraging male patients who want to pursue it. Looking younger and more athletic can improve confidence and self-esteem. And then there’s the impact of social media. There’s such a desire to look good online. And Botox is easy and it works. You’re in and out quickly, and the results last several months.

In your own clinics are you seeing a lot more men than you used to?

Yes. A lot of my male patients will get Botox before a job interview or a special event like their wedding.

What questions do male clients ask the most often?

‘Will my face look frozen?’ My philosophy has always been: less is more. I always treat my patients conservatively so as not to give them a ‘frozen’ look whereby they cannot make any expression. A complimentary follow-up review is scheduled after two weeks to ensure the patient is happy with the results. If there is still too much movement, I’ll give them a top up..

And how would you describe the treatment to a first timer?

Quick, easy and pain free. You might find it odd that you can’t move certain facial muscles as much, but this feeling subsides once you get used to it, and with subsequent treatments it doesn’t happen.

Where should you have it?

Lines and wrinkle reduction on the face, specifically around the eyes, are usually what people are seeking to correct. The aim with Botox is to break the habit of frowning and squinting to reduce the appearance of the lines, which will then also help to reduce the development of further facial lines. I also use Botox to elevate the eyebrows, opening up the eyes to give a more relaxed, fresher appearance.

Where shouldn’t you have it?

Generally, the mid and lower face. If not injected with accuracy and a good understanding of the anatomy, Botox in these areas can cause more problems – for example, droopy mouth, dribbling and asymmetry – than it may correct. It’s not always advisable to treat men’s crow’s feet because this is considered an attractive aspect to men – think Clint Eastwood. Don’t reject a doctor who says no if they feel you are asking for too much. Appreciate the doctor who says that’s enough.

What does it cost?

Treatment costs vary; it depends on how many areas are treated, and can range anywhere from £270 to £450.

And how long does Botox last?

The effects last three to four months but, with ongoing treatments, it can last longer. I have a few patients that have treatments every six or nine months.

Is there a right age to start Botox?

There’s no ‘ideal’ age but the majority of my patients start looking into it in their mid 30s to early 40s. It has now become the most popular and safe non-surgical cosmetic treatment performed today. Just remember, don’t overdo it!

For those familiar with Botox, are there any other treatments to know about?

I have seen an increase in chin and jawline contouring for clients who would like a more masculine face shape. Building up a weak chin and more chiselled features is very popular with my patients, especially with newer fillers available and better techniques. Nose reshaping is also on the rise. Dermal fillers can be used in a variety of ways to correct a slight bump on the nose, depressed bridge (saddle nose), beak-like nose, or a droopy tip – creating a smoother profile. The treatment takes 30 minutes and can last 12 to 18 months.

For more information or to book an appointment call +44 203 131 3041

This article first appeared in SLMAN