CLICK HERE FOR VIDEO Botox for Wrinkles What is BOTOX® Cosmetic?      BOTOX® Cosmetic is purified botulinum toxin type A. It is a naturally derived product used to reduce unwanted muscle activity. It has been used for medical purposes for more than 20 years, primarily for ophthalmologic and neurologic muscular diseases, for which it is FDA approved. More recently, it has been used for the cosmetic reduction of facial expression lines. It is considered safe and effective when properly used. BOTOX® Cosmetic is a great adjunct to laser photorejuvenation in reducing the appearance of wrinkles in all ages.   What is the cause of wrinkles and facial expression lines?      Lines and wrinkles develop, at least in part, from the action of facial muscles on the overlying skin. After years, furrows may remain along these facial expression lines even without any active facial muscle expression. This is especially true of lines of the forehead and between the eyebrows. Other lines, such as crow's feet, may make us appear older than our chronological age. The development of these lines is promoted by years of sun exposure, and to a lesser degree, by smoking. BOTOX® Cosmetic is capable of preventing these unwanted facial expression lines and wrinkles.   How does BOTOX® Cosmetic work?      BOTOX® Cosmetic acts by producing muscle relaxation at treated sites. It does this by inhibiting contraction of the targeted muscles, causing them to relax. The strategic relaxation of certain facial muscles leads to decreased wrinkling of the overlying skin.   What kind of facial lines does it remove?      Prominent facial expression lines, especially horizontal lines on the forehead, vertical lines between the eye brows, and crow's feet are most dramatically improved with treatment.   How does BOTOX® Cosmetic compare to other products such as collagen and filler materials?      Unlike filler materials, BOTOX® Cosmetic treats the underlying cause of the facial expression lines. Filler materials, such as collagen, only plump up the skin. Although fillers reduce the appearance of lines when there is no facial expression, the moment the person does smile or frown, the lines reappear. BOTOX® Cosmetic actually prevents the unwanted lines from appearing with facial expression, and often even at rest.   How is treatment performed and how many treatments are required?      A small quantity of solution is injected directly into the muscles that are the cause of the prominent furrowing or expression lines. Typically several injections are given with each treatment, and one or two treatments are usually effective in achieving the muscle relaxation required to eliminate the unwanted expression lines.   How long do the results of BOTOX® Cosmetic last?      The muscle relaxation with BOTOX® Cosmetic lasts for 3 to 6 months. When the effect of BOTOX® Cosmetic wears off or diminishes, (i.e., the muscles that contribute to these facial expression lines again become active and the lines gradually reappear) treatment can again be administered.   How does the skin appear after BOTOX® Cosmetic?      Immediately after treatment the skin appears normal or there may be minimal redness and swelling at the treated sites. Occasionally, there can be mild bruising. If present, these changes resolve within a few hours to days. The skin feels normal and there is no unusual sensation.   When can I expect to see results after treatment?      Within 48 hours after treatment reduction in the muscle activity can be noticed. About one week after treatment the maximal benefit is attained and continues for a few months.   Are there any limitations after treatment?      No. Immediately after treatment you may resume all normal activities.   Is there any discomfort with treatment?      There is usually mild discomfort at the injection sites. This only lasts for a few seconds. Many patients choose to use a numbing cream on the skin prior to the injections, however, this is only seldom needed.   Are there any risks or side effects?      Rarely. If BOTOX® Cosmetic should affect an adjacent muscle, it too may have reduced activity. This has been reported in about one percent of those treated and if this does develop, the most common change is some eyelid drooping. However, any such unwanted muscle relaxation would also be temporary. There are no reports of any injury to the eye when BOTOX® Cosmetic is administered to the muscles of the forehead.   Can BOTOX® Cosmetic cause botulism?      No. Extraordinarily small amounts of BOTOX® Cosmetic are administered. These quantities are insufficient to cause botulism or any related symptoms.   BOTOX® is a registered trademark of Allergan, Inc.