BOTOX^® is a medication used to temporarily relax wrinkle inducing facial muscles. It was originally used to treat facial tics and spasms in patients with neurological disorders. Doctor and patients were pleasantly surprised to see wrinkles "disappear" when certain muscles were treated.

Cosmetic surgeons are now utilizing BOTOX^® to erase wrinkles and relax muscles in specific facial zones, such as the vertical and horizontal forehead creases, facial frown lines, and the wrinkles around the eyes. The main benefit of using this medication, however, is its ability to give younger looking skin without surgery.

BOTOX^® is injected directly into the problem muscle or the wrinkled area. Within several days, the muscles will relax and wrinkles will fade. Frown lines and creases relax, resulting in a younger looking patient with smoother skin.

It only takes few minutes to inject BOTOX® and the effects will last for a few months (2-6 months), depending on the patient. The treatment is repeated as the wrinkles and frown lines reappear. It has been reported that with repeated injections, the effects may last longer.

There have been no reports of permanent damage or lasting, negative effects caused by the injection of BOTOX^®.