Botox®

Learn more about the original injectable neurotoxin and what it can do for your skin.

Botox® is the FDA-approved brand name for Botulinum Toxin (type A). Botox® Cosmetic is a simple, nonsurgical, treatment that can temporarily smooth moderate to severe frown lines between the brows in people from 18 to 65 years of age. It is a purified protein produced by the Clostridium botulinum bacterium, which reduces the activity of the muscles that cause frown lines between the brows to form over time.

The injections are usually painless, work by blocking the nerve signals that allow muscles to contract, and the entire procedure is fairly quick. The result is a smoother more relaxed surface of the skin in the areas where muscle activity causes wrinkles. The most common areas of treatment are between the brows, on the sides of the eyes, and horizontal forehead creases, as these are some of the most important muscles of facial expression.

What can I expect from Botox®?

The injections are relatively painless. Additionally, a plastic surgeon who is board-certified has specific training in the musculature of the face and can use Botox® injections to create subtle changes that reveal a smoother, less tired-looking appearance.

How long will Botox® last?

Once Botox® has been injected, it will take several days to take full effect. Depending on your body’s ability to break down the product, the effects of the injections generally last 3-4 months.

Certain creases in the face that are caused by the depression of soft tissue, such as the folds that can extend from the nose to the corners of the mouth, are usually better treated with fillers or a fat transfer.

Please contact Garner Dermatology should you have questions about this very exciting procedure.