Cosmetic Services

BOTOX® Cosmetic

BOTOX® Cosmetic is a prescription drug that, when injected, temporarily paralyzes muscles. It contains a purified and safe form of botulinum toxin A, which is produced by the microbe that causes botulism. Manufactured by Allergan, Inc., it is used to treat permanent furrows and deep wrinkles in the skin that are formed by the continual contraction of facial muscles. In addition to its cosmetic applications, it is used to treat a number of medical problems, including excessive sweating, overactive bladder, neck spasms, crossed eyes, chronic back and jaw pain, and migraines.

Applications for BOTOX Cosmetic

Although originally approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration for the treatment of eye and muscle spasms, BOTOX Cosmetic was quickly recognized for its cosmetic value. Properly placed injections of BOTOX Cosmetic block nerve impulses sent to muscles, weakening them to the point where they cannot contract, and temporarily eliminating moderately severe furrows and lines. BOTOX Cosmetic is used to treat the following:

  • Forehead furrows
  • Frown lines
  • Crow's feet
  • Skin bands on the neck

BOTOX Cosmetic Procedure and Results

Using a very fine needle, BOTOX Cosmetic is injected directly into facial muscles that are causing furrows and lines. Receiving the injections requires no anesthetic, but some doctors choose to numb the area to be injected with ice packs or a topical anesthetic cream. Results can usually be seen within a few days of treatment, and typically last up to four months, although areas that are treated on a regular basis may retain results longer. Injections should be given only by qualified medical professionals.

Side Effects of BOTOX Cosmetic

Side effects of BOTOX Cosmetic are usually mild and temporary, and normal activities may be resumed immediately after receiving injections. Injection-site side effects may include:

  • Pain
  • Infection
  • Inflammation
  • Tenderness
  • Swelling
  • Redness
  • Bleeding
  • Bruising

Frequently Asked Questions

What is BOTOX® Cosmetic?
BOTOX® Cosmetic is a highly purified protein injected into the skin to relax the muscles that cause some kinds of wrinkles.
What problems will BOTOX® treat?
In addition to over 180 medical uses, BOTOX® has many cosmetic uses, including treatment of frown lines, worry lines across the forehead, crow's feet lines, smile lines, lines around the mouth, downturned corners of the mouth, chin wrinkles, neck lines, "marionette's" lines running down from the corners of the mouth, and excessively sweaty armpits, palms, and feet.
Do the injections hurt?
The needles for BOTOX® are much smaller than those used for collagen and Restylane®; patients are often surprised at how little pain BOTOX® injections cause.
What are the risks?
The most common side effect is a mild amount of droopiness in an eyelid ("sleepy" eye) that lasts about 10 days without treatment. This is a rare occurrence. As with any time you get an injection anywhere in your body, a small bruise is possible.
Can you become 'immume' to BOTOX®?
Theoretically. Typically, patients who receive BOTOX® frequently for one or two years require less BOTOX® each time.
What if I don't like the results?
Results will fade after a few months.
How frequently can/should I have injections?
BOTOX® can be used every 3-4 months, depending on how the muscles respond.
Who should not have BOTOX®?
Women who are pregnant, breast-feeding or who hope to become pregnant, and people who are taking certain antibiotics, have neuromuscular disorders or an allergy to BOTOX® should not have injections.

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