1. What is Botox cosmetic?

Botox is a toxin that is made from the same bacteria that causes botulism. This toxin causes paralysis of muscles. Botox cosmetic is a highly purified form of the toxin that is specifically concentrated to be used to treat wrinkles. Botox Cosmetic is injected directly into overactive muscles that are causing wrinkles. When these muscles are paralyzed, the wrinkles that these overactive muscles caused are smoothed.


2. How safe is Botox?

Botox is extremely safe when used as directed. It should not be used in patients who are pregnant or breast feeding since it has not been tested in this population of patients. Botox should not also be used in patients who have myasthenia gravis. The most common side effects of treatment are headache or bruising. There is a 1-3% risk of a temporary drooping of the eyelid with treatment.


3. How many treatments will be needed for botox?

Most patients will have a nice improvement in their wrinkles with one treatment. Occasionally patients with very powerful muscles causing the wrinkles will need a higher dose than the average patient and this can be touched up a week or so after the initial treatment or the dose can just be adjusted the next time the patient is ready for treatment. The results of a Botox treatment can take up to a week for full effect and will last 3-6 months.


4. What is a Botox treatment or botox procedure?

Botox is injected into the overactive muscle in the office using a very small needle. The procedure does not require anesthesia and is associated with very minimal discomfort. There is no downtime required for recovery.


5. How are Botox ,Cosmetic and Dysport used cosmetically?

Botox Cosmetic and Dysport are two brands of the same toxin. They are prepared, concentrated, and dosed a little differently but used in a similar manner to treat the same types of wrinkles. The most common areas treated are frown lines between the eyebrows, forehead lines, and crow' s feet. Contrary to a common misperception, the use of Botox does not cause the face to look "frozen" or unnatural. When used for frown lines, the patient cannot frown but this does not appear unnatural. When used for crow' s feet, there is no facial expression that is affected. When used for forehead lines, the ability to raise the eyebrows is affected. This can be only partial or complete depending on the goals of the patient and the treatment plan developed with their physician.


6. What is a Botox party?

A Botox party is a gathering of patients for Botox treatments. Although this has been done in patient' s homes, the administration of medical treatment should be performed in a physician' s office. Many plastic surgeons and dermatologists will make special arrangements in their offices during evening hours to host a group of friends who are interested.


7. Where can I find Botox Doctors in my area?

Most plastic surgeons and dermatologists administer Botox. In the plastic surgery field, a great resource to find a qualified plastic surgeon is the American Society of Plastic Surgeons website at www.plasticsurgery.org. Another option is visiting www.botoxcosmetic.com, however this find a doctor site will also list other medical specialists who offer Botox. While any physician can administer Botox, I strongly advise using the services of a plastic surgeon or dermatologist as not all wrinkles are best treated with Botox and these specialists have other offerings to address other causes of facial wrinkles which may be better options for you.