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Botox Cosmetic® is a non-surgical method of treating facial wrinkles in the forehead, between the eyes and in the "crows feet" areas (upper third of the face). Botulinum toxin, or Botox Cosmetic®, works by weakening the muscles of facial expression. Once the resting tone of the treated muscles is weakened, the pull of the muscles relaxes and the overlying skin flattens. This approach is different than the other local treatments for the aging face. Hyaluronic Acid, collagen, autologous fat transfer, Alloderm, etc. all work by filling in wrinkles or depressions. These fillers are frequently not as effective as Botox Cosmetic® in removing wrinkles in the upper third of the face. By physiologically weakening the muscles, wrinkles are lessened naturally.
Injection of Botox Cosmetic® into the small muscles between the brows, in the forehead, and at the corners of the eyes causes those specific muscles to halt their function (be paralyzed), thereby improving the appearance of the wrinkles. This paralysis is temporary, and re injection is necessary within three to ten months. Options for alternative treatment include injection of either collagen or free fat, or the surgical excision of the muscles, usually through a brow lift incision. Complications are rare but may include paralysis of a nearby muscle, resulting in its temporary loss of function (e.g. a drooping eyelid).
Botox Cosmetic® is prepared fresh on the day of injection.
The specific risks and the suitability of Botox Cosmetic® for a given individual can be determined only at the time of consultation. All procedures have some degree of risk. Minor complications that do not affect the outcome occur occasionally. Major complications are rare.