II. ADJUNCTIVE PROCEDURES

II.A. Botox

Botulinum toxin, or Botox, is a neurotoxin produced by the bacteria clostridia botulinum. When small doses

of botox are injected into a muscle, it weakens or "paralyzes" that muscle. It has been used for many years in the treatment of muscle spasm disorders. Doctors and patients noticed early on in its use that it also caused lines and wrinkles to soften and even disappear for a period of time. As a result, the use of botox for the treatment of lines and wrinkles is now very common. Botox is now FDA approved for cosmetic use for specific facial wrinkles.

Botox works best on the wrinkles between the eyes, the crow's feet or "laugh lines" that form with aging, and the furrows or forehead wrinkles that may give one a frowning or worried look (Fig. 1).

When administered in appropriate doses, Botox does not make the face expressionless. It simply softens over-exaggerated furrows. Its effects typically last about 4-6 months, and after that patients can be retreated. If patients like the effect of Botox, they may wish to discuss with their facial plastic surgeon the surgical options that can provide a more lasting solution.

FIGURE 1. Botox works well on the furrows or forehead wrinkles that may give a patient a frowning or worried look. As illustrated in this patient (a) preoperative, (b) postoperative, Botox does not make the face expressionless. It simply softens over-exaggerated furrows.

FIGURE 2. Upper eyelid blepharoplasty (a,c) preoperative, (b,d) postoperative.

There may be some mild discomfort associated with a Botox injection that can be treated with Tylenol. There will be some temporary swelling that usually requires no treatment. However, if a patient wishes, they can apply ice in the first 24 hours. There is usually no bruising. If a patient should develop a small bruise, it should dissipate over a period of a few days.

[Previous] [Continue]

Ask Dr. Becker a question or arrange an appointment for a nose surgery consultation by calling 856-589-NOSE (6673) or emailing us at info@therhinoplastycenter.com.

NOTE: CLICK HERE for information regarding privacy of your medical information. Additionally, all website users must agree to the terms and conditions of this site. Please CLICK HERE to review terms of use.