As we age, our face begins to show the effects of gravity, sun exposure and years of facial muscle movement, such as smiling, chewing and squinting. The underlying tissues that keep our skin looking youthful and plumped up begin to break down, often leaving laugh lines, smile lines, crow’s feet or facial creases over the areas where this muscle movement occurs. BOTOX® is one of the most widely prevalent methods used for regaining smooth, younger-looking facial skin while helping to combat the signs of aging and wrinkles.

BOTOX® therapy is a simple, non-surgical procedure that softens facial wrinkles, creating a younger and more refreshed looking face. The best candidates for the procedure are those between ages of 25 and 65. This treatment works beneath the surface and temporarily reduces the underlying muscle activity that causes moderate to severe frown lines, crow’s feet and forehead lines in adults – to help them look better.

Tiny amounts of BOTOX® are injected into specific facial muscles to eliminate frown lines between the eyebrows; horizontal forehead wrinkles and crows feet around the eyes. The muscles in these areas are immobilized, the lines gradually smooth out from disuse, and new creases are prevented from forming. It is important to remember that BOTOX® affects only the specific treated muscles, leaving the surrounding muscles to function as usual.

After injection, it takes 3 to 5 days to begin taking effect and up to 7 days to see the full effect. BOTOX® therapy is temporary and usually lasts 2 to 4 months, depending on the individual. Eventually the effect gradually fades and muscle action returns.

BOTOX® was approved by the US FDA in 1989, and has the longest period of proven clinical testing and safety in the world. The safety profile of BOTOX® is considered to be excellent. It has been used for patients with various conditions for over 10 years in over 60 countries. Patients who are pregnant, nursing, allergic to albumin (eggs), taking certain antibiotics, affected by any neuromuscular or collagen vascular disease, or that have had any recent eye surgery may not use BOTOX®. For more information on the benefits of BOTOX®, schedule an appointment with Sabrina Johnson, BSN RN. We look forward to offering comprehensive services to enhance the youthfulness of our patient’s skin!