Happier, More Youthful Look with BOTOX®

BOTOX Cosmetic is an injected substance which is used as a remedy for facial wrinkles and lines. The active ingredient in BOTOX (botulinum toxin type A) is diluted and modified for medical use, but accomplishes on a small scale the same thing as it does in its pure form: the blockage of nerve activity. But, while botulinum is deadly, BOTOX improves human life by preventing the muscles in the face from forming unsightly wrinkles.

The BOTOX treatment isn't for everyone. In many cases, cosmetic surgery is the best choice for improving the aesthetics of the patient's face. However, if a patient cannot tolerate facial surgery for medical reasons, or does not wish to undergo a surgical procedure, he or she may be a good candidate for BOTOX cosmetic treatment. The procedure is generally safe and effective for patients age 18 to 65 with no medical history of neurological disorders, drug or latex allergies, or other conditions that could affect outcome. (Pregnant patients cannot be treated with BOTOX due to potential side effects.)

Once the surgeon has affirmed the suitability of the patient for BOTOX treatment, the procedure can begin. First, the locations most in need of treatment are identified by having the patient contract the facial muscles in the problem areas; these are marked by the physician. Next, the doctor may apply cold compresses to the areas to be treated; this numbs the skin and reduces discomfort associated with the procedure. (Anesthesia is not used during the BOTOX treatment.) Finally, the surgeon injects BOTOX Cosmetic directly into the muscles beneath the skin in the specified areas, after which the patient is free to go. The entire procedure takes less than ten minutes to perform and does not restrict the patient's subsequent activities in any way.

The effect of the treatment can be dramatic. Upon injection, BOTOX Cosmetic deadens the muscles that create frown lines, crows' feet, wrinkles, and other signs of aging. The skin slackens and smoothes out, giving the face a more youthful appearance within minutes. A single BOTOX treatment can last up to four months.

BOTOX® Cosmetic treatment is an effective means of preserving the youthful appearance of the facial skin, but it is not suitable for use on all patients.Those interested in learning whether or not BOTOX is right in their particular case should consult with a local board-certified plastic surgeon.

BOTOX® Cosmetic is an effective treatment for those suffering from facial lines and wrinkles when administered by a board-certified plastic surgeon. For up-to-date information on cosmetic procedures, visit The Plastic Surgery Channel.