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Botox
Other names
Botulinum Toxin, BTX
Purpose
Reduce or eliminate frown lines, forehead creases, crows feet near the eyes, and other winkles or furrows.
Procedure type
Non-surgical, in-office
Recovery time
Minimal
Duration of results
2 - 4 months
Complements
Face lift, neck lift, forehead lift, eyelid lift, Restylane, collagen, chemical peels, and microdermabrasions
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Home > Procedures > Cosmetic Surgery
Botox
Goals
- Relax the muscles that create unwanted facial expression lines
- Soften wrinkles and furrows, and, in many cases, virtually erasing them
- Helps to give the face a smoother, more refreshed appearance
Description
Our facial expressions are the visible signs of how we feel. Although we seldom think about it, many of our expressions involve contraction of facial muscles. Over time, this repeated muscle action to create certain expressions may result in wrinkles, creases and deep furrows that remain visible even when our faces return to a more neutral or relaxed state. These persistent wrinkles may make us look angry or anxious when we are not, and they may be among the first visible signs of facial aging.
Botox works by temporarily reducing or eliminating frown lines, forehead creases, crows feet near the eyes, and thick bands in the neck. The result is a smoother facial surface and a refreshed, more youthful appearance.
Procedure
A successful Botox treatment requires careful observation of the facial muscle action. By creating specific facial expressions, strategic points on your face can be identified based on your unique anatomy. A topical numbing agent is often used to help decrease the discomfort associated with the injection.
The injection sites are cleansed with an antibacterial agent. The injection takes only a few minutes. Following injection, any markings will be cleansed. Depending on the patient, the injection areas may be iced. Care must be taken not to apply pressure or massage the treatment areas. This could disperse the Botox into other areas.
An improved appearance and smoothing of creases and wrinkles will appear over the next few days or up to a week, depending on individual factors.
Following Treatment
Occasionally, initial treatment with Botox does not produce the desired relaxation of muscles. In such cases, a return visit to the office should be made after 7 days for an evaluation and additional therapy. Otherwise, follow-up will be required within 3 to 6 months to maintain the results of the wrinkle reduction therapy.
Over time, the treated muscles may gradually weaken and Botox treatments may last somewhat longer than in the past. Because Botox is a temporary procedure, should you decide to discontinue treatment, the muscles that have been treated will eventually regain full mobility. In addition, when facial muscles resume their prior activity, the creases and wrinkles associated with these muscle actions will also return.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What are some common side effects of Botox injections?
A: Some of the more common side effects include temporary bruising and swelling. Overall, side effects after Botox injections are rare. Reported side effects include headache, nausea or flu-like symptoms, respiratory infection and eyelid or eyebrow droop. All of these are reported to be relatively uncommon and temporary in duration.
Q: When should I start seeing results?
A: It generally takes 2 to 5 days after Botox injection before you notice any changes. Often, the changes are gradual over a few days.
Q: How does Botox affect skin surfaces?
A: Botox injection does not change the skin surfaces, it only relaxes the underlying muscles that cause creases and wrinkles to appear. Surface wrinkles can be further improved with additional skin resurfacing treatments such as a chemical peel or microdermabrasion. Medical skin care products may also dramatically improve skin surfaces.
Q: What options are available if the lines are too deep for Botox?
A: Soft tissue fillers can fill and reduce the appearance of deeper creases and furrows that may not fully improve following treatment with Botox.
Q: How long do the results last?
A: While the exact length of time varies with each individual, the effects from Botox injections typically lasts 2 to 4 months
Q: Do the injections hurt?
A: Most patients only experience mild discomfort during the injections.
Q: How does Botox work?
A: Botox works by relaxing very specific muscles to prevent it from creating certain expression lines. This process is called denervation.
Q: Can I use Botox if I am pregnant / nursing?
A: Treatment is not recommended for pregnant and/or nursing mothers.
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