Primary Care & Medical Aesthetics
BOTOX
BOTOX® Cosmetic is a prescription drug that, when injected, temporarily paralyzes muscles. It contains a purified and safe form of botulinum toxin A, which is produced by the microbe that causes botulism. Manufactured by Allergan, Inc., it is used to treat deep wrinkles in the skin that are formed by the continual contraction of facial muscles.
Botox is also used therapeutically to treat a number of medical problems including excessive sweating, overactive bladder, neck spasms, crossed eyes, chronic back and jaw pain, and migraines. Therapeutic Botox may be covered by some health insurances with prior authorization at a lower out of pocket costs.
Uses for BOTOX Cosmetic
Although originally approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration for the treatment of eye and muscle spasms, BOTOX Cosmetic was quickly recognized for its cosmetic value. Properly placed injections of BOTOX Cosmetic block nerve impulses sent to muscles, weakening them to the point where they cannot contract, and temporarily eliminating moderately severe furrows and lines. BOTOX Cosmetic is used to treat the following:
Forehead furrows
Frown lines
Crow's feet
Skin bands on the neck
According to Allergan, BOTOX Cosmetic has been "extensively researched, with approximately 2500 studies."
BOTOX Cosmetic Procedure and Results
Using a very fine needle, BOTOX Cosmetic is injected directly into facial muscles in an individualized pattern to soften or eliminate facial lines and wrinkles. Injections are typically uncomfortble and a mild, topical cream numbing agent can be used if needed.
Results can usually be seen within a few days of treatment (3 to 7 days), and typically lasts about 3 months and up to four months for some individuals.
All Injections should be asssed by and administered by a trained AND qualified healthcare professional.
Side Effects of BOTOX Cosmetic
Injection-site side effects of BOTOX Cosmetic are usually mild and temporary, and include the following:
Pain
Infection
Inflammation
Tenderness
Swelling
Redness
Bleeding
Bruising
Normal activities may be resumed immediately after receiving injections. We recommend avoiding exercise or anything that woud increase body temperature for 24 hours.