What is Botox Cosmetic and how does it work?

As we age, our faces begin 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 Cosmetic (onabotulinumtoxinA) is a prescription medicine that is injected into muscles to temporarily treat frown lines between the brows, the forehead and the smile lines around the eyes. It works by blocking nerve impulses to the injected muscles. This reduces muscle activity that causes those lines to form. Dysport (abobotulinumtoxinA) is a newer medication with a similar mechanism of action. It has been used in many countries for over twenty years.

The underlying tissues that keep our skin looking youthful and plumped up begin to break down often leaving facial creases. Injectable fillers can fill in these lines and creases, restoring a more youthful looking appearance. They can fill out deep facial wrinkles, creases and furrows, “sunken” cheeks, skin depressions and some types of scars. They can also be used to add a fuller, more sensuous look to the lips.

Is treatment with Botox and Dysport painful?

iscomfort is usually minimal and brief. Prior to injecting, your physician may numb the area with a cold pack or anesthetic cream. The entire procedure takes approximately 10 minutes. Many people are in and out of the physician’s office without downtime following treatment.

How quickly will I see a difference?

Within three to four days you may notice a softening in your appearance of your to frown lines and wrinkles. The area may continue to improve for at least a week. Dysport tends to work a little faster, starting within 24 to 48 hours of treatment.

Will I still be able to make facial expressions?

Although the results are visible, a treatment with Botox or Dysport will not radically change your facial appearance or make you look as if you’ve “had work done.” The muscle activity that causes frown lines is temporarily reduced, so you can still frown or look surprised without the wrinkles and creases between your brows, on your forehead and around your eyes.

How long can I expect my results to last?

Results have been shown to last up to 4 months or more. Your own results may vary-be sure to talk to your plastic surgeon about what you can expect and when to schedule your next appointment.