Botox®

Cosmetic After years of squinting, laughing, frowning, smoking, and worrying, the skin around the eyes and on the forehead will often develop deep lines and wrinkles called "expression lines." A frequent concern is that they often make you look older, tired, or stressed. Until recently, these advanced furrows have been difficult to treat. Now, by utilizing this muscle-relaxing agent, expression lines can be significantly reduced.

What is BOTOX® Cosmetic?
BOTOX® Cosmetic, produced by Allergan, Inc., is a therapeutic muscle-relaxing agent derived from the bacterium, Clostridium Botulinum. For over a decade ophthalmologists have applied BOTOX® for its original intention, the treatment of blepharospasm. Over the last several years, physicians have utilized BOTOX® Cosmetic as a treatment to correct the visible signs of stress and aging. BOTOX® Cosmetic may also be used for the treatment of hyperhidrosis, or excessive sweating of the axillary (underarms), palms of hands, and soles of feet.

How does BOTOX® Cosmetic work?
The contractions and movements of the facial muscles are controlled by signals from the brain. BOTOX® simply prevents the muscle from allowing responses to these messages. As a result, the muscle relaxes and the overlying skin remains unwrinkled and smooth.

What is treatment like?
With a very fine needle, BOTOX® Cosmetic is injected into the specific muscle that is contracting and causing the lines and wrinkles on the face. Treatment is effective, safe, and takes approximately 10 minutes. The pain is a minimal "pin prick" and no anesthetic is required. Immediately following treatment, you may resume regular activities!

How long does a BOTOX® Cosmetic treatment last?
The effects usually last 3 to 4 months, and fade away gradually. Following several treatments, the results may last 4 to 8 months or longer. BOTOX® Cosmetic offers extended relief over the course of long-term treatment.

Are there any possible side effects?
Side effects of BOTOX® Cosmetic, if any, are usually mild and temporary. Botulinum toxins contain proteins, which in some circumstances may be naturally safeguarded against by the body's ability to produce antibodies. If antibodies are formed, the therapy will generate a lesser response. Temporary bruising is sometimes experienced, though this symptom resolves itself within 2 to 3 days. In rare cases, there can be a slight drooping of an eyelid or asymmetry of expression. If this should happen, notify us so we may begin appropriate therapy.

What type of results will I see?
Typically, the effect of BOTOX® Cosmetic is visible within 3 days. Maximum benefits are reached between 7 to 14 days. Once the muscle becomes dormant and the skin softens, you will have a more relaxed and youthful appearance. BOTOX® Cosmetic is often used in conjunction with other procedures performed at Dermatology Associates and Refelctions Med Spa. This includes IPL skin photorejuvenation and the use of injectable fillers for wrinkle correction. Dr. Bedi and her staff will determine how best to utilize BOTOX® Cosmetic for each and every client.

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