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BOTOX®
(Botulinum Toxin A)
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Quick Facts about BOTOX®
Medical Names: Botulinum Toxin A, Botox®
Estimated Cost: $300 - $1,000 per injection
Type of Anesthesia: None
Total Recovery Time: None
Procedure Location: Plastic Surgery Center, Physician Office
Practitioner: Board Certified Plastic Surgeon or Dermatologist
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Botulinum Toxin A, the pharmaceutical serum name, is known commonly by the registered consumer market brand, Botox®. A highly popular non-surgical procedure, Botox® injections offer men and women a rejuvenated appearance by temporarily smoothing facial wrinkles, creases in the forehead, crow's feet around the eyes, frown lines and bands in the neck.
Botox® treatments take less than thirty minutes and result in smoother revitalized skin. In 2005, more than 3.2 million Botox® treatments were performed, according to the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery (ASAPS).
Did You Know?
As the most popular minimally invasive plastic surgery procedure, Botox® treatment is the fastest and safest way to remove frown lines and age wrinkles from the face. In addition, Botox® therapy is used to effectively treat various medical conditions such as facial ticks, severe underarm sweating and migraine headaches.
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THE BOTOX® PROCEDURE
Botox® treatment is performed in a plastic surgery center or a physician's office. An anesthetic is not required, although a numbing cream may be applied to the treatment area.
The location of the injection sites is the most important factor in the success of Botox® and these are chosen carefully by your physician. The injection points are marked with a special marker and the physician then injects Botox® filler into each marked site. As the Botox® enters the associated muscles, it blocks the release of acetylcholine, causing a cessation of muscular contractions. As a result, the area is relaxed and the skin becomes smoother.
Treatments generally take five to twenty-five minutes, depending upon the number of injection sites being treated. Following Botox® treatment, you can return to work immediately. Full results are evident within one week and typically last three to six months.
IS A BOTOX® RIGHT FOR YOU?
Ideal Candidate for Botox®
Botox® is a minimally invasive procedure and safe for most patients. You should not consider Botox® if you are pregnant or nursing or have an existing infection at a Botox® injection site. The ideal candidate for Botox® is under sixty-five years of age and seeking cosmetic enhancement or reduction in muscle spasms and migraine headaches.
Other Considerations for Botox®
People with neuromuscular disorders or cardiovascular disease should consult their plastic surgeon before having Botox® treatments, as cardiovascular problems may occur. If you are taking aminoglycoside antibiotics or similar medication, which interfere with neuromuscular transmission, let your physician know before treatment. Make sure you discuss all of your questions and specific health issues with your physician prior to any Botox® treatment.
BOTOX® PROCEDURE COST
The cost of Botox® treatment varies from state to state and from one physician to another. Plastic surgeons and dermatologists charge per injection, with total cost dependent upon the number of injections and areas treated. The average cost for a single injection treating one area is $376.
Note: A more expensive price does not necessarily ensure a more skilled practitioner. You should ask for referrals and review testimonials as well as before and after photos before choosing a practitioner for Botox®.
BOTOX® PROS & CONS
Pros
| Botox® results are significant and visible within two to three days after treatment |
| According to ASAPS, up to 80% of wrinkles, frown creases and lines will disappear within a week after Botox® treatment |
| Minimally invasive procedure with no surgery required and little or no recuperation time |
| Botox® therapy relieves migraine headaches |
| Time off from work is generally not required; most patients return to work immediately after treatment
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Cons
| Botox® treatments last approximately three to six months; additional injections are required to maintain results |
| Treatment can become expensive over the long-termm |
| Common side effects include mild to moderate headaches, flu symptoms, temporary eyelid drooping and nausea |
| Extensive treatment of Botox® within a single area can cause a frozen facial appearance
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ASK A PLASTIC SURGEON ABOUT BOTOX® - FAQ
Is Botox® safe?
Botox® is a relatively safe treatment when administered by an experienced plastic surgeon or licensed medical dermatologist. There are minimal side effects with Botox®. As with any treatment, there are potential risks. Botox® is not safe for women who are pregnant or nursing.
Is Botox® permanent?
Botox® treatment is not permanent. On average, a treatment will last three to six months, at which time you will need a new treatment to maintain cosmetic results.
Do I need an anesthetic for Botox®?
No anesthetic is required for this treatment although your doctor may apply a topical numbing cream to ease the discomfort from the injection.
What side effects should I anticipate following Botox® treatment?
Many patients experience no side effects at all. However, the most common side effects of Botox® include nausea, headache, flu symptoms and minor redness at the injection site. In rare cases, temporary drooping of the eyelid muscles or muscle weakness may occur which will usually dissipate in a few days.
Is it true that Botox® can relieve migraine headaches?
Yes, Botox® therapy has been safely and effectively used to reduce or prevent migraine attacks.
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