BOTOX® Cosmetic

BOTOX® Cosmetic, formerly known simply as Botox®, is a non-surgical method of treating facial wrinkles in the forehead, between the eyes and in the "crows feet" areas (upper third of the face). Botulinum toxin, or BOTOX® Cosmetic, works by weakening the muscles of facial expression. Once the resting tone of the treated muscle is weakened, the pull of the muscle relaxes and the overlying skin flattens. This approach is different than the other local treatments for the aging face. Restylane®, Juvederm™, Radiesse®, Perlane, silicone, collagen, autologous fat transfer, Alloderm and Softform - these all work by “filling” in wrinkles or depressions. These fillers differ from BOTOX® Cosmetic in that Botox paralyzes the fine muscles where fillers “fill” the wrinkle. By physiologically weakening the muscles, wrinkles are lessened naturally. If both Botox Cosmetic and dermal skin filler’s are used in combination, there is a beautiful result.

Injection of BOTOX® Cosmetic into the small muscles between the brows, in the forehead, and at the corners of the eyes causes those specific muscles to halt their function (be paralyzed), thereby improving the appearance of the wrinkles. This paralysis is temporary, and re-injection is necessary within three to ten months. Options for alternative treatment include injection of either collagen or free fat, or the surgical excision of the muscles, usually through a brow lift incision. Complications are rare but may include paralysis of a nearby muscle if too much Botox is injected, resulting in its temporary loss of function (e.g., a drooping eyelid). The rule with Botox treatments is - after your injection, Dr. Gilmore recommends not laying down for at least 4 hours.

The specific risks and the suitability of BOTOX® Cosmetic for a given individual can be determined only at the time of consultation. All procedures have some degree of risk. Botox cometic can also be injected for the treatment of obsessive underarm sweating/perspiration.

Watch a video and learn more about BOTOX® Cosmetic -