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BOTOX

Botox is a new concept in treating facial wrinkles. Botulinum toxin works by weakening the muscles of facial expression. By physiologically weakening the muscles, the wrinkles are removed naturally. This is an entirely different approach to treating the aging face. Silicone, collagen and Autogolous Fat injections work by filling in the wrinkle. Botox takes three to five days to take effect and lasts for three to six months. The toxin is most effective for wrinkles in the upper third of the face; the forehead lines, "crow's feet" and the frown lines. It is not effective for wrinkles in the middle and lower portion of the face because paralyzing these muscles would distort the smile and facial expressions (although it would eliminate wrinkles!) You will feel a small amount of discomfort when Botox is injected. This will last for approximately five seconds. On rare occasions, the needle may puncture a blood vessel and you may have a black and blue area that lasts for up to seven days. There are no serious side effects associated with the use of Botox with the dosages that we employ. However, minor side effects can occur. Treating the forehead may rarely cause a small droop in the upper eyelid. This is temporary and lasts two to three weeks. Headache is rarely reported as a side effect. There have been no allergies or internal side effects associated with Botox at the dosages we employ. This has been used in a safe and effective manner at a much higher dosage for patients with neuro-muscular disorders for approximately 15 years. Botox is used to enhance your appearance and is not to take the place of standard facial plastic surgical procedures such as face lifting, blepharoplasty, dermabrasion, and chemical peeling. It has the ability to improve areas that are not addressed by these operations and is an effective adjuvant to these operations. Botox use also enhances the effect of collagen by relaxing the wrinkle lines and allowing the collagen to fill areas more completely. When Botox starts to wear off, you will notice a gradual return of your wrinkles. Frequently when they return they are not as deep. At that time, you may like to be retreated. It takes two or three injections a year to maintain the appearance that you have achieved from Botox. Botox works best in people aged 30-60 and is less effective in people in their 60's and 70's, as the wrinkles in older people tend not to be caused by muscle pull and are more likely caused by sun damaged skin. During your consultation, the areas that are amenable to improvement with Botox will be pointed out to you. The purpose of Botox is to make you look your best. Drs. Martin, Mark, and Gross can usually get the best results by carefully checking your skin and planning treatments that will attempt to restore your natural beauty. We will be glad to discuss all treatments in detail with you including benefits, side effects of treatment, and costs. We always try to answer your questions-please don't hesitate to ask them!