BOTOX remains a popular procedure for the treatment of fine lines and wrinkles, deep forehead wrinkles, “11”-shaped lines between the eyebrows, crows feet, and other facial imperfections. Why?
Because BOTOX works! After receiving FDA approval in 2002 for cosmetic use, millions of Americans have enjoyed the benefits of BOTOX, with minimal side effects and fast turnaround time.
What is BOTOX and how does it work? BOTOX is the injectable form of Botulinum Toxin A, a neurotoxin that works by inhibiting the activity of certain muscles in the face that cause wrinkles. Skillful application of BOTOX allows for removal of unwanted facial wrinkles without inhibiting your ability to express feelings such as surprise or concern.
Where did BOTOX come from? Amazingly enough, in the 1980s, Dr. Alan Scott discovered the wrinkle-reducing effects of Botulinum Toxin A quite by accident while trying to find a treatment for crossed eyes. He noticed that, while successfully relaxing the overactive muscles causing the eyes to cross, the toxin also removed wrinkles in the patient’s face. But how? The same way: by forcing overactive muscles to relax.
Administration of BOTOX is very simple. A qualified medical professional uses a syringe to inject BOTOX into the area of the patient’s face that he or she would like to look younger and smoother. Involving only the discomfort associated with a pin-prick, the procedure itself can take as little as 5 to 10 minutes and no anesthetic is necessary.
Some bruising or discomfort around the injection site is possible, as is a mild drooping of the nearby eyelid or eyebrow. These side effects typically pass within one day of the procedure as long as no undue pressure is applied to the injection site. In other words, leave it alone! However, it is safe to apply makeup to the injection site if desired.
The effects of BOTOX are both subtle and profound. After only one injection, the muscles in the face that allow for certain problematic facial expressions are effectively “deactivated,” allowing the lines and wrinkles caused by the expression to fade. With subsequent injections, these lines and wrinkles eventually disappear, leaving smoother, younger-looking forehead or eye area.
The effects of a single injection can last up to four months. Your doctor will determine how often you should receive new injections to maintain and improve your appearance over time. It is important to remember that more BOTOX is not necessarily better; too much over too short a time can create an artificial, mask-like appearance. Moderation is key when it comes to BOTOX, as it is with so many things.
For reducing the appearance of the most common effects of aging—facial wrinkles, forehead lines, crows feets, and many others—BOTOX has withstood the test of time. With its help, your face will too.
