What is BOTOX® Cosmetic?

BOTOX® Cosmetic is a purified protein produced by the Clostridium Botulinum bacteria. It has been used safely by ophthalmologists for over 10 years, and has been applied for wrinkle therapy since the early 1990's with no serious side effects documented.

New common uses for BOTOX® Cosmetic include reduction in sweating of hands and armpits (hyperhydrosis) and relief of chronic headaches.

How does it result in wrinkle reduction?

BOTOX® Cosmetic has a dual effect. It acts as a filler to fill in and hide your wrinkles. But more importantly, BOTOX® Cosmetic injections relax the muscles that create wrinkles, thereby immediately lessening the appearance of frown lines, laugh lines and crow's feet. This also prevents overuse of facial muscles that would lead to further wrinkles.

How is BOTOX® Cosmetic applied?

A small amount of BOTOX® Cosmetic is injected right into the muscles that are responsible for creating wrinkles. Some of the common areas treated include crow's feet, frown lines, laugh lines, and forehead wrinkles. It may take a few days to notice the wrinkle smoothing effect after receiving BOTOX® Cosmetic injections. Injection is quick and easy to do, and results usually last three to six months. After that you may return for a follow-up injection. Some doctors report that after several treatments, the effect of BOTOX® Cosmetic appears to last longer, often up to several months.

What are some possible complications?

The most common complication is a slight, temporary drooping of the eyelid. BOTOX® Cosmetic is used in extremely small amounts and does not spread throughout the body so you can return to full activity immediately. No anesthesia is required for your treatment, so other side effects that are associated with cosmetic procedures are completely avoided.

Is BOTOX® Cosmetic safe for me?

BOTOX® Cosmetic can safely be used by almost anyone; however patients who are pregnant, breastfeeding or who have a neurological disease should not use BOTOX® Cosmetic. During your consultation with Dr. Horton, he will discuss your options and whether BOTOX® Cosmetic is the right choice for you.