Botox and Xeomin injections

You see advertisements everywhere for Botox® injections:

Remove unwanted wrinkles. Banish unsightly neck bands. Clear away irksome crow's-feet.

Yes, it's true -- a large number of people are having Botox® injections to regain a more youthful appearance. In fact, some people are even hosting Botox® parties -- where several women and men (yes, men) gather together for cocktails and wrinkle-banishing injections.

A simple query on an Internet search engine will result in dozens of sites touting the cosmetic wonders of Botox®. Although Botox® has been used in this manner for years, it was only approved by the U.S.Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for cosmetic use in April 2002.

What is Botox?

Botox is a brand name of a toxin produced by the bacterium Clostridium botulinum. There are other brand names for botulinum, such as Xeomin. In large amounts, this toxin can causebotulism, which you probably associate with food poisoning. Despite the fact that one of the most serious complications of botulism is paralysis, scientists have discovered a way to use it to human advantage. Small, diluted amounts can be directly injected into specific muscles causing controlled weakening of the muscles.

The FDA approved such usage in the late 1980s upon the discovery that Botox could stop ailments like blepharospasm (uncontrolled blinking) and strabismus (lazy eye). Doctors have been using Botox for years to successfully treat wrinkles and facial creases. In April 2002, Botox gained FDA approval for treatment of moderate-to-severe frown lines between the eyebrows - called glabellar lines. However, Botox is often used for other areas of the face as well.

How Does Botox Work?

Botox blocks signals from the nerves to the muscles. The injected muscle can no longer contract, which causes the wrinkles to relax and soften. It is most often used on forehead lines, crow's feet (lines around the eye) and frown lines. Wrinkles caused by sun damage and gravity will not respond to Botox.

How Is a Botox Procedure Performed?

Getting Botox takes only a few minutes and no anesthesia is required. Botox is injected with a fine needle into specific muscles with only minor discomfort. It generally takes three to seven days to take full effect and it is best to avoid alcohol at least one week prior to treatment. Aspirin and anti-inflammatory medications should be stopped two weeks before treatment as well in order to reduce bruising.

How Long Does a Botox Injection Last?

The effects from Botox will last four to six months. As muscle action gradually returns, the lines and wrinkles begin to re-appear and wrinkles need to be re-treated. The lines and wrinkles often appear less severe with time because the muscles are being trained to relax.

What Are the Side Effects of Botox?

Temporary bruising is the most common side effect of Botox. Headaches, which resolve in 24-48 hours, can occur, but this is rare. A small percentage of patients may develop eyelid drooping. This usually resolves in three weeks. This usually happens when the Botox moves around so you shouldn't rub the treated area for 12 hours after injection or lay down for three to four hours.

How much does Botox it cost?

Currently we are offering botox injections at $10.00 per unit. Sales and specials may be promoted from time to time or if a large group wanted to have a botox party.

Before and After Photos
Botox Injections