Botox®
Introduced over thirty years ago, botulinum toxin A or
BOTOX was first administered by injection into the
muscles surrounding the eye to patients suffering from
crossed eyes. The derivative of the bacterium
Clostridium botulinum produces a protein that
interferes with muscle spasms by blocking nerve
impulses and temporarily relaxing the muscle. Early
successful clinical trials resulted in BOTOX® gaining
FDA approval for treatment and/or relief of neck pain
caused by cervical dystonia, involuntary facial muscle
spasms, and eye misalignment (strabismus). Currently,
BOTOX® is being assessed for treating a variety of
conditions including migraine headaches, lower back
pain, and excessive perspiration.
On April 15, 2002, Allergan earned FDA approval of
BOTOX Cosmetic for treatment of glabellar lines (the
area located between the eyebrows, including the
corrugator and procerus muscles). Since the approval,
BOTOX injections have become the most sought-after
cosmetic treatment in clinics nationwide. The
popularity of BOTOX® is attributed to its non-surgical
nature, low occurrence of side effects, affordability,
and effectiveness in reducing moderate to severe brow
furrows, horizontal forehead wrinkles, and the tiny
lines located at the outer corners of the eyes. |
1. What exactly is BOTOX® Cosmetic?
BOTOX® Cosmetic is a purified protein produced by the Clostridium botulinum bacterium. It is a non-surgical, physician-administered treatment that can temporarily reduce moderate to severe frown lines between the brows. During treatment, very low doses of BOTOX® Cosmetic are administered via a few tiny injections directly into the muscles that cause those stubborn lines. The treatment is usually done in about 10 minutes, and no recovery time is needed. Within days, you may see an improvement that can last up to 4 months. Results may vary.
2. How does BOTOX® Cosmetic work?
Those moderate to severe frown lines between your brows form over time as the result of muscle activity. BOTOX® Cosmetic is injected directly into the muscles between your brows. It works by blocking the transmission of nerve impulses to the injected muscles; this reduces the activity of the muscles that cause those persistent lines to form.
3. When will I see results from a BOTOX® Cosmetic treatment?
Within days, you may see a marked improvement in the moderate to severe frown lines between your brows. Lines continue to improve for up to a month, and results can last for up to 4 months. In clinical trials, nearly 90% of men and women rated the improvement in their appearance as moderate to better 1 month after treatment. Results may vary
4. How long does BOTOX® Cosmetic last?
Results from treatment with BOTOX® Cosmetic can last for up to 4 months. If you discontinue treatment, the frown lines between your brows gradually will look like they did before treatment.
5. Is treatment with BOTOX® Cosmetic painful?
Discomfort is usually minimal and brief. Prior to injecting, your physician may choose to numb the area with a cold pack or anesthetic cream. The entire procedure takes approximately 10 minutes. Many people return directly to work or normal activity following BOTOX® Cosmetic treatment.
6. Who should not use BOTOX® Cosmetic?
BOTOX® Cosmetic should not be used in the presence of infection at the proposed injection site(s) and in individuals with known hypersensitivity to any ingredient in the formulation. Patients with neurological disorders such as ALS, Myasthenia Gravis or Lambert-Eaton syndrome may be at increased risk of serious side effects.
7. Will I experience any side effects?
The most common side effects include headache, respiratory infection, flu syndrome, temporary eyelid droop, and nausea. Less frequently occurring (<3%) adverse reactions include pain in the face, erythema at the injection site, and muscle weakness. These events are thought to be associated with the injection and occurred within the first week.
8. Is BOTOX® Cosmetic affordable?
When considering your facial aesthetic options, BOTOX® Cosmetic is quite affordable. According to the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery's 2003 survey, BOTOX® Cosmetic is one of the least expensive facial aesthetic procedures in the United States. Like other appearance-related investments, such as hair coloring and cuts, teeth whitening, and chemical peels, the cost must be weighed relative to your expectations. Aura Laser Skin Care offers a complimentary consultation in order to discuss if you qualify, the dosage, and price.
