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What is Botox® Cosmetic?
Botox® Cosmetic is a natural protein that, when injected
into a muscle, temporarily prevents the release of the
chemical messenger which tells the muscle to contract.
It is used to treat dynamic wrinkles such as crows’
feet, forehead lines, and frown lines. Botox® Cosmetic
can also be used on the lower face to treat the muscles
that cause tiny lines around the mouth, sad lines at the
corners of the mouth, and the aging appearance of the
neck. Botox® Cosmetic works by relaxing the facial
muscles, creating a smoother and more refreshed
appearance.
Is it safe?
YES. Botox® Cosmetic is a purified protein which is
extracted from naturally occurring bacteria and
processed under strict pharmaceutical manufacturing
guidelines. The cosmetic use of Botox® is FDA approved.
How long does the procedure take?
After our consultation, the procedure takes only 15
minutes. Since there is no down time, it can be done
during a workday and you can return directly to work.
How is it done? Does it hurt?
Botox® Cosmetic is injected with a very tiny needle and
a delicate syringe. Most patients say the injections
feel similar to a little pinch or tiny pin prick.
When will I see the benefits?
You may notice results within 3 to 5 days, but it may
take as long as two weeks before the full effect of the
treatment is realized. This is especially true the first
few times a muscle is treated with Botox® Cosmetic.
Also, the first time you are treated with Botox®
Cosmetic, you will experience only about 70% of the
muscle relaxing benefits you will receive with future
treatments.
I don’t want to look “frozen” without any expression.
Will that happen?
No. My objective always is to restore a natural,
youthful balance to your face and to reduce the
wrinkling that makes you falsely appear worried, angry,
or fatigued. Patients want to look natural, relaxed, and
refreshed, not frozen.
How long does Botox® Cosmetic last? Is it permanent?
Botox® Cosmetic is not permanent. It lasts between 3-4
months on average, but results vary. Scientific studies
show that if you have your first three to four
treatments three months apart, subsequent treatments
will last longer and possibly require lower dosing. And
after that first year, if you adhere to a prompt
treatment schedule you will likely be able to stabilize
your treatment schedule to two to three times a year.
What happens when it wears off? Once I start treatments
do I have to continue forever?
Botox® Cosmetic slows the clock on aging. If you stop
having treatments, the “aging clock” resumes at its
normal pace. At most, your appearance will return to
where it was before, and if you have used Botox®
Cosmetic for a number of years you will likely receive a
long lasting benefit as it takes time for the static
wrinkles to return to their baseline.
Are there any side effects?
Side effects of Botox® Cosmetic are rare and not
permanent. Occasionally, there can be some minor
bruising, redness, or swelling, easily covered up with
makeup. As with any injection, bleeding, infection, or
allergic reaction can occur. Very rarely, Botox®
Cosmetic around the eye can cause a temporary drooping
of the eyelid. Most patients do not experience any side
effects at all.
How much does it cost?
The therapeutic benefit of Botox® Cosmetic is directly
related to how many units of Botox are used. Therefore,
it has never made sense to me to charge “by the area”
because different people require different amounts of
Botox® Cosmetic for the perfect result. This means that
my fees are often significantly lower than other
doctors’ fees. At the time of your consultation I learn
what your goals are and analyze your facial anatomy;
then I am able to tell you the exact cost of your
recommended treatment plan.
Who should not have Botox® Cosmetic treatments?
If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, you should wait.
Also, if you are taking a certain class of antibiotic
called an aminoglycoside, you should wait until your
treatment is over. If you have any neuromuscular
junction disorder such as myasthenia gravis, you should
not have this procedure. If you have any concerns or
questions, please let me know.
For more information, go to
www.Botox.com. |
