Common Questions

How does BOTOX® Cosmetic work?
BOTOX® Cosmetic causes the muscles in the face to relax so that wrinkles cannot form. The muscles that are not treated contract normally so that facial expression is preserved for a beautiful, natural look. Since wrinkles form over time with repeated muscle contraction, BOTOX® Cosmetic can also PREVENT wrinkles by training those muscles involved not to produce the movement that forms the lines.

Is BOTOX® Cosmetic safe?
BOTOX® Cosmetic has been used for decades to treat medical conditions such as facial spasms and other neurological disorders. Its safety has been well proven.

What can I expect during and after a treatment?
The skin is cleansed, then the BOTOX® Cosmetic is injected with a tiny needle. We use specially ordered needles that are smaller and more comfortable, so that the injection is virtually painless. No anesthetic is required, and you can return to normal activities immediately. Some patients may experience a mild headache that can last for a few hours. In 3-4 days you will notice a decrease movement of the muscle that was injected, and results will be fully appreciated in about 2 weeks. We usually have you return at that time to evaluate the changes and determine if more injections are needed into any resistant functioning muscles.

What are the possible side effects?
While infrequent, temporary mild bruising is the most common side effect. This is easily covered with makeup. Rarely, the product can migrate into nearby muscles and cause temporary mild dropping of an eyelid. This usually resolves within a few weeks.

How long does BOTOX® Cosmetic last?
The effects of BOTOX® Cosmetic last from 3-4 months. With repeated treatments the effects last longer, up to 6 months. Eventually it is possible to break the bad frowning habit and train some of the facial muscles to not be used so that retreatment is only necessary when the habit is relearned.