Botox Cosmetic® / Dysport Cosmetic®
Botox Cosmetic® is an FDA approved treatment to help relax wrinkles. It works as a neuromodulator, to help stop the local communication between nerves and muscles to help reduce the production of wrinkles. The most commonly treated areas include the:
- Glabella (the space between the eyebrows)
- Crow’s feet (around the eyes)
- Forehead
While over 11 million people have used either Botox®, or the related product Dysport®, for the treatment of wrinkles, some patients still worry that they are “toxins” that can have deleterious health effects. Botulinum toxin is the active ingredient in both of these medications. While it is true that an overdose can be harmful, the dose where this can become an issue is over 100 times the amount typically injected. One syringe cannot store enough of the medication to produce a harmful effect, which is why the use of Botox® is safe, effective and FDA-approved to help reduce wrinkles. Botulinum toxin is also used to treat cervical dystonia headaches, excessive sweating, blepharospasm, and strabismus.
As dual board-certified and fellowship-trained Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgeons, our physicians have mastered the anatomical relationships of the face and realize that safety is most important. Most patients want a natural and youthful appearance, not a “frozen” look which appears artificial. Our surgeons will carefully measure the amount of Botox® or Dysport® needed for you, and prior to treating your wrinkles, it will produce only the amount sufficient for treatment, and no more. This method helps our surgeons put safety first by making sure there is not excess medication injected, and also allows him to individually tailor each treatment based on your unique facial features.
This simple in-office procedure for the treatment of wrinkles via Botox® begins with the placement of ice or a numbing agent on the areas to be treated. Afterward, we will map out the location of the injections, after reviewing your individual muscle movement of the face. Then the injections are meticulously placed at the site of maximal muscle movement. A small amount of pressure is applied, and minimal bruising and swelling are seen. The results will typically take up to seven days to fully take effect and last anywhere from three to six months. On the day of the injection, it is important not to massage the area injected, and not exercise. However, the following day, you can resume your normal activities.