Botox is an FDA-approved injectable treatment that provides a smoother facial appearance by eliminating lines and wrinkles on the face and forehead, “crow’s feet” and wrinkles between the brows by relaxing the underlying facial muscles. Botox is made from botulinum toxin type A and is injected with a small needle directly into the muscles that cause the lines and wrinkles. The length of the treatment depends on the amount of areas being treated as well as the amount of Botox being administered. In general, a Botox treatment can be performed in as little as 10 minutes.
Botox normally involves no downtime following the procedure and patients can resume their normal activities immediately. The length of the results depends on the amount of Botox injected into a patient. However, Botox results usually last from 3-6 months.
Botox is approved for use on patients ages 18 to 65. Although it is often thought of as a cosmetic procedure for older patients with wrinkles and crow’s feet, younger patients are also making use of Botox as a “preventative measure”. Younger patients have the treatment in order to try and prevent wrinkles and fine lines from appearing in the first place on their skin. Anyone who wants to eliminate wrinkles and get a smoother and younger appearance should schedule a consultation appointment to see if he or she is an ideal candidate for the treatment.
Botox is used for more than simply eliminating wrinkles and facial lines. It can also be used in the treatment of:
- Migraines
- Excessive sweating
- Muscles spasms
- Jaw tension
Even though Botox provides a younger appearance, there are some side effects that could occur after having a treatment. Some of these side effects (which are usually temporary) include:
- Allergic reaction
- Muscle stiffness
- Difficulty swallowing
- Headache
- Bruising
- Bleeding
- Muscle weakness
- Swelling
- Redness
- Droopy eyelids
- Temporary paralysis of different muscle groups
- Headache
The cost of Botox varies depending on the amount being injected, fees charged by the physician and the area of the country in which the treatment is performed. The national average cost for Botox is anywhere from $350-$500. When searching for a physician to perform the treatment, patients should look for doctors who are board-certified by the American Board of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery and the American Board of Plastic Surgery. These boards require the highest standards from their members when it comes to quality care and treatment of patients.