botox

Botox Cosmetic is an injectable wrinkle muscle relaxer. It uses botulinum toxin type A, specifically OnabotulinumtoxinA, to temporarily paralyze muscle. This reduces the appearance of facial wrinkles. Botox treatment is minimally invasive. It’s considered a safe, effective treatment for fine lines and wrinkles around the eyes. It can also be used on the forehead between the eyes.

Learn more about botox

Botox was FDA-approved initially in 1989 for treating blepharospasm and other eye muscle problems. In 2002, the FDA approved the use of Botox for cosmetic treatment for moderate to severe frown lines between the eyebrows. The FDA approved it for treating wrinkles around the corners of the eyes (crow’s feet) in 2013. According to a 2016 clinical study, Botox is a simple, safe, and effective treatment for reducing forehead wrinkles. In 2016 over 4.5 million procedures were performed using Botox and similar medications to fight wrinkles. This procedure is the number one nonsurgical cosmetic procedure in the United States.

How to prepare for Botox Cosmetics?

Botox Cosmetic involves a nonsurgical In-office treatment. It requires minimal preparation. It would help to inform your treatment provider about your medical history, allergies, or medical conditions before your procedure. Your treatment provider should be a licensed physician, a physician assistant, or a nurse. You should remove all your makeup and cleanse the treatment area before the procedure. You may also need to avoid blood-thinning medicine like aspirin to reduce the risk of bruising.

Are there any risks or side effects?

Minor bruising or discomfort may occur but should improve within a few days. Other side effects may include:

  • Swelling or drooping in the eyelid area
  • Tiredness
  • Headache
  • Neck Pain
  • Double Vision
  • Dry Eves
  • Allergic reactions, such as rash, itching, or asthma symptoms
  • Contact your provider immediately if any of these side effects occur
What areas of the body can be treated with Botox Cosmetic?

Cosmetically, the injectable can be used in the following areas:

  • The area between the eyebrows (glabellar region), to treat moderate to severe frown lines
  • Around the eyes. Commonly known as crow’s feet lines.

Botox also received FDA approval to treat various medical problems. Including:

  • Overactive bladder
  • Excessive underarm sweating
  • Lower limb spasticity
  • Chronic migraines
What to expect after Botox Cosmetic?

Avoid rubbing, massaging, or applying any pressure to the treated area. These actions can cause Botox Cosmetic to spread to other areas of the body. This can negatively affect your results.
Do not lie down or bend over for three to four hours when injected between the brows. Doing so may cause the Botox to slip under the orbital rim. This could cause an eyelid drop.
There is little to no downtime expected after the treatment. You should be able to resume normal activities immediately in most cases.

How does Botox Cosmetic work?

Botox Cosmetic works by temporarily blocking nerve signals and muscle contractions. This improves the appearance of wrinkles around the eyes and between the eyebrows. It can also slow the formation of new lines by preventing the contraction of facial muscles. It’s a minimally invasive procedure. It doesn’t involve incisions or general anesthesia. A topical anesthetic or ice can numb the treatment area if you’re concerned about pain or discomfort.
During the procedure, your provider will use a thin needle to administer 3-5 botulinum toxin type A injections. They will inject the targeted area between the eyebrows. You will usually need three injections on the side of each eye to smooth out crow’s feet.
The entire procedure takes approximately 10 minutes.