Botox
BOTOX® Cosmetic is a prescription drug that, when injected, temporarily relaxes muscles. 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, relaxing them to the point where they cannot contract, and temporarily softening moderate to severe furrows and lines. BOTOX Cosmetic is used to treat the following, among other applications:
- Forehead furrows
- Frown lines
- Crow’s feet
- Skin bands on the neck
- Lip lines or for accentuation of lip
- Downturn of the mouth
- Lines of neck and decollete
According to Allergan, BOTOX Cosmetic has been “extensively researched, with approximately 2500 studies.”
BOTOX Cosmetic Procedure And Results
Using a very fine needle, BOTOX Cosmetic is injected directly into muscles that are causing furrows and lines. Receiving the injections requires no anesthetic, but ice packs can be applied to the areas for numbing. Results can usually be seen within a week of treatment, and typically last up to three months, although areas that are treated on a consistent basis may retain results longer. Injections should be given only by qualified medical professionals.
Potential Side Effects Of BOTOX Cosmetic
Injection-site side effects of BOTOX Cosmetic are usually mild and temporary, and include the following:
- Pain
- Infection
- Inflammation
- Tenderness
- Swelling
- Redness
- Bleeding
- Bruising
It is recommended patients receiving Botox abstain from heavy exercise and lying down within 4 hours after treatment. Anyone who is pregnant or breastfeeding, or has a neuromuscular disease, should not receive Botox Cosmetic.
Rarely, eyelids can droop or appear heavy when Botox injections are placed in the glabellar or forehead regions; they usually return to normal within 3 weeks. At your treatment, information about potential side effects will be provided.
The content of this website is for educational and informational purposes only and does not constitute formal medical advice. Information about conditions or procedures will be formally provided for you at your appointment.
