BOTOX® (botulinum
toxin)
What is BOTOX®?
Who is a good candidate?
Risks
Recovery
What is BOTOX®?
BOTOX® (botulinum toxin) injections
can help reduce wrinkles in the upper areas
of the face, such as the eyes and forehead.
BOTOX injections require no special preparation
or follow-up care. The plastic surgeon simply
injects tiny amounts of BOTOX -- which weakens
the muscles and relaxes them -- in the selected
area. The skin flattens out, and wrinkles and
lines fade. Sometimes the surgeon uses BOTOX
in conjunction with other surgery, such as an
eyelid lift or facelift.
You'll feel some discomfort when the BOTOX
is injected, but it should pass quickly.
Who is a good candidate?
If you have deep lines between your eyes or
on your forehead, BOTOX injections may help
smooth these wrinkles. BOTOX injections aren't
nearly as effective as surgery for an aging
neck, but it can be an option for those who
are not good surgical candidates.
Risks
Every type of procedure has risks,
but you can usually help prevent complications
by carefully following your physician's instructions.
It's important to talk with your plastic surgeon
before a procedure to be sure you understand
the potential risks and complications. If you
don't understand something, ask!
There are a few specific risks associated with
BOTOX injections. Some patient have slight bruising
after the injections. Others experience a slight
drooping of the eyebrow or upper eyelid, but
that usually lasts only a few weeks. Temporary
weakness in nearby muscles can occur when the
BOTOX migrates from the original site, so be
careful to avoid rubbing the injection area
for at least 12 hours.
Recovery
After the injection, you can return immediately
to work or other activities. You may see the
full effects of the BOTOX in three to five days,
and you can expect these results to last for
three to six months.
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