What is a Botox Injection or botox shot?

Botox is the trade name for the neurotoxin, Botulinum toxin, which is produced by the bacteria Clostridia botulinum. Although the protein can cause the disease botulism in exceedingly large doses, in small doses, it is very commonly used to treat wrinkles of the central brow (glabella), forehead wrinkles and crow's feet. Botox is also being used with increasing frequency to treat excessive sweating and migraine headaches.

Who is the ideal candidate for BOTOX?

Ideal candidates for Botox show early signs of facial aging, and have wrinkles of the brow, forehead and eyes. Because Botox injections are performed relatively quickly, and there is relatively no down time associated with the procedure, patients can be busy professionals, active moms, or retirees!

How does BOTOX work?

Botox works by blocking the response of muscles to nerve impulses. More specifically, a few days after Botox injections, muscles that have been treated become paralyzed. Wrinkles are caused by contractions of the facial muscles. Wrinkles overlying paralyzed muscles soften and disappear while the Botox lasts, which is generally between 3-6 months.

What is the recovery period for BOTOX?

There is virtually no recovery period after Botox injections. I ask patients to refrain from strenuous activity for 6-12 hours after the procedure and to avoid direct trauma to the treated areas for the same period of time. It takes 5-10 days to see the full results after the injections.

How long do the results of BOTOX last?

Botox results are evident for 3 to 6 months.

How much does BOTOX cost?

The price of Botox injections vary depending on the amount of product used, geographic region and physician experience. In general, a patient can expect to pay around $450 to $700 for treatment of frown lines, forehead lines, and crow's feet.

Who should perform a BOTOX procedure?

It's imperative that the injector is experienced and has intimate knowledge of facial anatomy. The most experienced injectors tend to be plastic surgeons, facial plastic surgeons, oculoplastic surgeons and dermatologists. Other physicians and nurses can also perform with Botox injections.