How Does Botox Work?

Botox (Botulinum Toxin A) was invented to treat neurological disorders, but today, it has been very successfully used in the treatment of wrinkles, frown lines, and crow’s feet.

How Is the Procedure Performed?

Botox is injected into the muscle tissue surrounding a wrinkle via a small needle. The discomfort is minimal and usually lasts a few seconds. Botox relaxes the muscle tissue by blocking nerve impulses to it. Within a couple of days the results can be clearly seen but the full effect could take up to 10 days and will last for several months (typically 3-4), after which the procedure can be performed again.

Am I a Candidate for Botox Injections?

Women who are pregnant or nursing should wait to have the procedure done, since the side effects associated with pregnancy are unknown at this time. Medication such as antibiotics, anti-inflammatories, and aspirin will increase bruising so they should be avoided if possible for 5 days prior to treatment.

Anyone looking to minimize and improve facial wrinkles may be a candidate. Younger people who do not have wrinkles but would like to prevent them are also often good candidates. Botox can also be used to treat Hyperhydrosis or excessive sweating of the armpits. Before your initial treatment you will have a consultation to discuss the treatment in depth, your health history and any other pertinent information.

What Are the Side Effects of Botox?

Although Botox is relatively safe it does have some mild side effects. The most common side effects are temporary numbness, swelling, a tingling sensation and possibly temporary bruising.