Post by TotalInformation on Jul 20, 2004 3:58:39 GMT
FAQ: Botox®
What causes frown lines and crow's feet?
Frown lines and crow's feet are what doctors refer to as "dynamic" wrinkles, meaning that they are caused by the repetitive movement of an underlying muscle. As we age, our skin becomes less tight, and this repetitive movement (caused by squinting, worrying, etc.) eventually causes our skin to crease or wrinkle.
How does Botox reduce the signs of aging?
Botox is a purified form of the botulinum toxin. It is injected in miniscule amounts into the appropriate muscle, causing the muscle to relax and thus diminish or eliminate the dynamic line or furrow. Botox has been used for more tha n ten yea rs to treat ophthalmological disorders, and is fast becoming the chosen non-surgical treatment to reverse signs of aging. After treatment, a patient treated with Botox can still frown and smile, but the expression wrinkles around the eyes and forehead are diminished when they do. Normal facial expression is unaffected. Correction with Botox is very natural, and patients who have been treated describe themselves as having a more "wide-eyed," "rested," and "less angry" look.
What areas can be treated with Botox?
Currently, Botox is used around the eyes (for crow's feet) and on the forehead (for frown lines) to reduce dynamic lines and furrows. It can also be used to treat prominent neck bands or cords.
How long does Botox correction last?
Botox correction lasts an average of four months. After repeated injections, the result s may be even longer-lasting.
What can I expect from the procedure?
Botox treatments are merely a simple injection. Most describe the injection sensation as feeling like a bug bite. The treatment is performed literally in a matter of minutes. No specific care is needed after the treatment.
Is Botox safe?
Yes, Botox is safe. It has been used for more than ten years to treat ophthalmological and neurological disorders.
Are there any side effects?
The most common side effect of Botox treatment is a temporary bruising at the injection site. This disappears within several days, and can be covered with makeup. In rare cases, Botox may travel and cause a droop in an eyelid; however, these effects are completely temporary. Your doctor can discuss any side ef fects that can be caused by Botox injections.
How soon after treatment will I see results?
The effects of Botox become apparent in the first three to five days after treatment.
Can Botox be combined with other facial rejuvenation procedures?
Botox can be an ideal adjunct treatment to other facial rejuvenation procedures such as laser skin resurfacing, collagen, etc. Ask your doctor to discuss all facial rejuvenation options with you.
DISCLAIMER: Information included in the LaserNews.net Patient FAQ contains the opinions of select members of the Editorial staff. LaserNews.net and the American Society for Laser Medicine and Surgery, Inc. do not intend to impart any medical advice, and the material included should not be read as such. Ple ase consult your local laser specialist with any questions specifically regarding your health or a particular procedure.
