WHAT IS BOTOX?
Many wrinkles originate from creases in the skin that are caused by making the same expression over and over. These “frown lines,” “crow’s feet,” and “smile lines” result from the contraction of muscles under the skin. BOTOX® Cosmetic (commonly referred to as simply, "BOTOX") improves these wrinkles by blocking the electrical impulse from reaching the area. As a result, the muscle becomes less active, the skin over the muscle relaxes, and the wrinkle gradually softens and disappears.
BOTOX injections are used to improve wrinkles between the eyebrows, on the forehead and around the eyes. On occasion, other areas may also be treated with BOTOX.
AM I A GOOD CANDIDATE FOR BOTOX?
BOTOX has been used safely for wrinkle therapy for over 20 years. The small amounts used for cosmetic purposes result in few side effects. Therefore, there are few restrictions regarding BOTOX treatments. Women who are pregnant and people who have a neurological disease, however, should not be treated.
BOTOX does not directly affect sensory facial nerves so there should be no numbness in the injected area. “Untreated” muscles are unaffected so facial expressions are not dramatically altered.
HOW IS BOTOX ADMINISTERED?
During the BOTOX treatment, a small amount of BOTOX is injected into the facial muscle with a tiny needle. A topical numbing agent is used to anesthetize the area being treated. In some cases, our patients also used nitrous (similar to a dental procedure) during the injections. The relaxing effects on the muscle become more pronounced over the next few days and usually last three to six months.
I WANT TO LEARN MORE ABOUT BOTOX TREATMENTS. WHAT SHOULD I DO?
If you would like more information about these treatments, please call Diane at our Little Rock office at (501) 227-9556. She has been Dr. English’s injectionist for over 11 years, and she is also his sister. Diane will be happy to answer all questions and concerns you may have about BOTOX. Ask Diane to see BOTOX before and after photos. For those who have an aversion to “shots”, our office uses topical anesthetics that will numb your skin during BOTOX treatments, as well as nitrous oxide.
Botox is also FDA-approved to treat hyperhidrosis (excessive underarm sweating), usually providing results for up to 12 months.