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Understanding BOTOX® Cosmetic
Many wrinkles originate from creases in the skin that are caused by making the same expression over and over. These "frown lines," "crow's feet," and "smile lines" result from the contraction of muscles under the skin. BOTOX® Cosmetic improves these wrinkles by blocking the electrical impulse from reaching the area. As a result, the muscle becomes less active, the skin over the muscle relaxes, and the wrinkle gradually softens and frequently disappears.
BOTOX® Cosmetic injections are used to improve wrinkles between the eyebrows, on the forehead and around the eyes. On occasion, other areas may also be treated with BOTOX® Cosmetic.
Understanding the procedure
A small amount of BOTOX® Cosmetic is injected into the facial muscle with a tiny needle. During the injection, there is a minor stinging sensation that lasts a few seconds. The relaxing effects on the muscle become more pronounced over the next few days and usually last three to six months. When injections are repeated, the effect may last longer than three to six months.
BOTOX® Cosmetic has been used safely for wrinkle therapy for over 8 years. The small amounts used for cosmetic purposes result in few side effects. Therefore, there are few restrictions regarding BOTOX® Cosmetic treatments. Women who are pregnant and persons who have a neurological disease, however, should not be treated. BOTOX® Cosmetic does not directly affect sensory facial nerves so there should be no numbness in the injected area. "Untreated" muscles are unaffected so facial expressions are not dramatically altered.
If you would like more information about these treatments, please call Diane at our office. She has been my injectionist for several years and she is also my sister. For those who have an aversion to "shots", we have topical anesthetics that will numb your skin during the treatments. Please call at your convenience.
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