What are Botox ® Injections?

BOTOX® is the brand name of a toxin produced by the bacterium Clostridium botulinum. In large amounts, this toxin can cause a form of muscle paralysis known as botulism. Scientists have discovered a way to use it to human advantage. Small, diluted (weakened) amounts can be directly injected into specific muscles, causing controlled relaxation of the muscles.

The FDA approved such usage in the late 1980s when it was discovered that BOTOX® could successfully treat wrinkles and facial creases. BOTOX® is approved for treatment of frown lines on the forehead, crow’s feet (lines around the eye), and axillary hyperhidrosis (increased sweating of the armpits). Within the past few years, new products that have similar preparations have been introduced into the U.S. market and have been well-received by patients.

How Does Botox work?

BOTOX® blocks the signal from the nerve to the muscles. The injected muscle can no longer contract (tighten) as forcefully, which causes the wrinkles to relax and soften.

How long does it last? Is Botox treatment permanent?

No. Results will vary, but results typically last from four to six months. At that point, when wrinkles begin to reappear, another Botox session will be needed. Lines and wrinkles often appear less severe over time because the muscles are being trained to relax and stop contracting.

Is Botox dangerous?

Temporary bruising is the most common side effect from the injection of Botox. Although its active ingredient is a neurotoxin, the small amounts used in Botox injections make more serious side effects virtually non-existent. Some people can develop eyelid drooping that lasts up to three weeks. This usually is caused by Botox moving to unwanted areas, affecting the wrong muscles, and is often a result of the patient rubbing the injection sites.

When should I get botox and how soon will I see results?

You do not have to wait for the first wrinkles and lines to show up on your face, before getting botox. It can be used as a preventive measure to keep the muscles often leading to wrinkles, relaxed. When getting a botox injection, you will have to wait for approximately 12 days to see its effects. If botox is applied in a larger area, the time period is longer.

Is Botox right for everyone?

Because it is inexpensive and has no downtime, Botox can be the perfect solution for many patients. However, its results are not permanent — people seeking a permanent solution for wrinkles and creases need to consider cosmetic surgery options. Also, women who are pregnant or breastfeeding should not use Botox.

Are there Botox benefits I don't even know about?

Sure are! Excess sweating, flushing, acne, teeth grinding, jaw clenching, and migraines all as maladies that might be remedied with a little Botox. Of course results may vary depending on what you're suffering from. 

Are botox injections painful?

The number one concern for most people thinking of getting botox, has to do with how much pain they are going to feel. The majority of people who have actually tried it say that it feels like just a bit more than a small pinch. After all, the injection is very quick not allowing the skin to feel pain.

Will I still be able to move my face?

When botox is done right, the patient has full control of motion and a more natural result. The injected muscle will relax, contractions will reduce and the area injected with the botox will be smoothed. However, if a patient requests a more frozen look, the dosage is altered to give the “no-movement” result they want.

What is the difference between botox and fillers?

They are both injectable treatments used for cosmetic reasons. Other than that, they are completely different products and therefore have completely different results. Botox softens or prevents wrinkles and fine lines by relaxing the muscles. It can also be used to lift or drop some features, such as brows or lips. 

On the other hand,  fillers “build” an area of the face by giving it volume or reshaping it completely. In terms of duration, dermal fillers are more permanent, as they consist of hyaluronic acid.