BOTOX 101
Botox or purified botulinum neurotoxin is a highly potent neurotoxic protein produced by the bacterium Clostridium botulinum. It prevents the release of the neurotransmitter acetylcholine from axon endings at the neuromuscular junction, thus causing flaccid paralysis. Simply stated, injections of Botox block the nerve signals to the muscle into which it was injected. Without a signal, the muscle is not able to contract.
Botox is FDA approved to treat a wide variety of medical conditions but for plastic surgeons it is used to treat facial wrinkles.
Use of Botox for facial wrinkles is the most frequently performed cosmetic procedure. The most common uses are to smooth lines and wrinkles in the forehead, crows’ feet, and frown lines but other cosmetic uses include lip lines, bunny lines, improve the appearance of skin dimpling of the chin, lift corners of the mouth, soften a square jawline, and correct a gummy smile.
Before receiving treatment is imperative that a complete evaluation of your medical history is obtained to avoid potential unwanted or dangerous side effects. The treatment generally takes 7-14 days to take full effect and will last 3-6 months.
While Botox is a non-surgical procedure, to achieve the best results and minimize risk it is important to give scrutiny and care to your decision. Knowledge and training matter. Board-certified plastic surgeons spend years gaining mastery of facial aging and the anatomy of the human face and are true experts in achieving your appearance goals.