One of the most revolutionary breakthroughs in cosmetic medicine in the past several decades, BOTOX® Cosmetic addresses active facial wrinkling that was previously untreatable. Finally approved by the FDA for cosmetic use in 2002, BOTOX® Cosmetic has a long successful history of “off label use” for facial wrinkling since the 90’s.
When evaluating facial aging changes, one of the critical areas that must be considered is overactive facial expression lines. Primarily visible only when your face is expressive, these overactive movements can start to etch permanent lines in the skin in the forehead frown area (the “elevens”) and create crow’s feet lines. These lines can become visible even when your face is completely at rest. Many times patients report that others misinterpret their habitual frown as concern, anger or even distress. Softening these expressions can improve how you present yourself to the world, with more accurate expressions of how you really feel. BOTOX® Cosmetic is an excellent treatment for this over-activity and also can prevent those lines from becoming permanent.
BOTOX® Cosmetic is injected as a solution of onabotulinumtoxinA (a derivative of Botulism toxin) in minute amounts to weaken specific targeted facial muscles in order to reduce over-activity and to improve facial muscle balance. BOTOX® Cosmetic is FDA approved for the treatment of frown lines, forehead lines, and crow’s feet. In addition, other areas of the face can benefit from careful use of BOTOX® Cosmetic and “off label” use in these areas is common and extremely effective, such as a non-surgical brow lift
The procedure for BOTOX® Cosmetic involves a very quick procedure with a few injections performed with ultra-fine needles after applying a
topical anesthetic cream to numb the skin. Most patients enjoy reduced frowning up to three months after injection and after multiple treatments (usually every three months for the first year) may find that they can increase the time interval between treatments a bit because they have lost the habit of muscle overuse. Etched lines also soften over time as the area is no longer being re-creased over and over, and the area can take advantage of our natural healing and recovery processes.
The effects of BOTOX® Cosmetic usually last between three to six months. The duration can vary based on several factors, including muscle activity, the area treated, and the amount of product used. Over time, the treated muscles regain activity, leading to the gradual return of wrinkles and lines. Regular follow-up treatments are recommended to maintain the desired effects. With consistent use, some patients may find that the intervals between treatments can extend over time as the muscles adapt to reduced movement.
While BOTOX® Cosmetic injections can have side effects, they are generally mild and temporary. Common side effects include bruising, swelling, or redness at the injection sites. Some patients might experience headaches, temporary eyelid drooping, or facial asymmetry. It is important to have BOTOX® Cosmetic injections performed by a qualified provider to minimize risks and ensure proper technique.
Are you interested in learning more? We invite you to schedule an appointment with us at Zeeba Clinic and Medspa. When you have a consultation, we’ll talk about your aesthetic goals and help you decide which type of treatment is right for you. Contact us today to get started!
