- What is BOTOX?
BOTOX is the brand name for botulinum toxin type A, natures most potent blocker of nerve impulses. Botox is costly because it is tedious to manufacture and because no generic substitute is available. Botox is a registered trademark of the Allergan Corporation.
- How does BOTOX work?
BOTOX partially blocks the nerve to the tiny facial muscles that are related to expression lines. This causes the muscles that are related to expression to relax. After the solution takes effect, the overlying skin will be smooth and unwrinkled while your untreated facial muscles will still function and contract continuing to cause dynamic expressions.
- What areas can be treated?
Botox injections are primarily used in the upper third of the face. Forehead lines between the eyebrows, and lines around the eyes ("crow's feet") respond favorably to Botox. Frown lines (below the mouth) and chin creases may also be improved with a Botox injection, but response here varies among individuals
- What is a BOTOX treatment like?
This is a simple and safe procedure. Our physicians use a tiny needle to cause minimal sensation and discomfort and to also allow greater precision in delivery of Botox to the specified facial area. Most patients remark that there is minimal discomfort comparing the sensation to a bug bite. No sedation or anesthetic is required, and you can resume normal activities immediately. Botox generally takes 24-72 hours to take effect reflecting the time necessary to disrupt the synaptosmic process.
- How long does BOTOX last?
Botox injections are temporary. On average the effect last 3-6 months. The length of time varies among each individual. The injection can be repeated and early clinical studies have indicated that the duration of treatment benefits are increased over time so that you could require injections less frequently in the future.
- Are there any side effects?
Temporary bruising of the injection site is the most common side effect. This is indicative of each patient and their normal response to any tissue change. In some cases, Botox can migrate to the wrong muscle causing drooping of the eyelid or unevenness of the brows. With skilled technique and knowledge of the face and underlying muscles the chances of this are reduced to about 1%. Because the effects of Botox are completely reversible, any side effects are temporary.
