Cosmetic
BOTOX® Cosmetic
What is BOTOX® Cosmetic?
BOTOX® Cosmetic is a non-surgical way to diminish the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. It acts by temporarily weakening the muscles that cause wrinkles creating a smoother, more youthful appearance.
BOTOX® Cosmetic is approved by the FDA (Food and Drug Administration) for use in people ages 18 to 65. Over 3.3 million procedures were performed in 2005.
Drs. Merfeld, Larson and Raven will discuss what goals you have and create a plan for your treatment. The procedure itself takes approximately 10 minutes and involves several micro-injections to the areas where wrinkles are present. Most people see results within a few days and the effect can last up to 4 months.
Ophthalmologists performed some of the first treatments that utilized the protein of BOTOX® Cosmetic. It was used for treatment of blepharospasm, a painful and uncontrollable contraction of the muscles around the eyes. Besides helping the patients to feel better, it was found that the wrinkles decreased dramatically in the areas treated.
How does it work?
BOTOX® Cosmetic acts upon the muscles which cause wrinkles. It is a protein derived from the bacterium clostridium botulinum and interrupts the junction between the muscle and nerve which causes the muscle to relax. As the muscle relaxes, the skin becomes smoother and wrinkles dissipate.
Safety
BOTOX® Cosmetic is approved by the FDA (Food and Drug Administration) for use in people ages 18 to 65. Over 3.3 million procedures were performed in 2005. While large doses ingested orally can be dangerous, the amount given for cosmetic treatments is approximately 1/300 the dose allowed for safety.
