Botox® is the brand name of a toxin produced by the bacterium Clostridium botulinum. In large amounts, this toxin can cause botulism, which you probably associate with food poisoning.  Scientists have discovered a way to use it to human advantage.  Small, diluted amounts can be directly injected into specific muscles causing controlled weakening of the muscles.  Used in its purified form, in tiny amounts, injection of Botox® will relax muscles, lessening the appearance of frown lines, forehead lines, and crow's feet.  Botox® has FDA approval for treatment of wrinkles and facial creases, and in 2002, was given approval for treatment of moderate-to-severe frown lines between the eyebrows.

Unlike surgery, Botox® is fast, simple, and minimally invasive, with no downtime or recovery.  Most people can return directly to work or normal activity following treatment.  This treatment is quite popular, and when used in combination with other rejuvenation treatments, is very successful.

How does it work?

Botox® blocks signals from the nerves to the muscles.  This reversibly relaxes the muscles under the skin. Facial lines formed by the pull of underlying muscles will then diminish or disappear.  It is most often used on forehead lines, crow's feet (lines around the eye) and frown lines.  Wrinkles caused by sun damage and gravity will not respond to Botox®.  You will notice Botox® beginning to work within two to four days, and it will continue to improve over the following seven to ten days.

How is Botox® given?

Using a tiny needle, a very small amount of Botox® is injected into locations on the face.  Because the needle is so fine and only a small amount of liquid is used, the discomfort associated with the injections is minimal.  Most patients compare the sensation to a bug bite.  It will take three to seven days to take full effect.  No sedation or local anesthetic is needed and normal activities can be resumed immediately.

How long does a Botox® injection last?

The effects from Botox® will last four to six months.  As muscle action gradually returns, the lines and wrinkles begin to reappear and will need to be retreated.  Repeat treatments have been shown to last longer. Treatment with Botox® can be done indefinitely.

What are the side effects of Botox®?

Temporary bruising is the most common side effect.  Headaches, which resolve within 24-48 hours, can occur but this is rare.  A very small percentage of patients may develop eyelid drooping.  This usually resolves within a few weeks.  This development is usually caused by migration of the Botox® and for this reason you shouldn't rub the treated area for 12 hours after injection or lay down for three to four hours.  There have been no allergies associated with Botox® to date.

Who should not receive Botox® injection?

Patients who are pregnant, breastfeeding, or have a neurological disease should not use Botox®.