BOTOX® Frequently Asked Questions

  1. What is Botox® Cosmetic?

    BOTOX® Cosmetic is a simple, non-surgical, physician-administered treatment that can temporarily smooth moderate to severe frown lines between the brows in people from 18 and older. It was approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in 2002, however, it has been used for over 15 years for treatment of certain medical problems. BOTOX® Cosmetic is a purified protein produced by the Clostridium botulinum bacterium, which reduces the activity of the muscles that cause those frown lines between the brows to form over time.

  2. How long does it take and how long will it last?

    Treatments can take between 10-30 minutes depending on the size and number of areas to be treated. Some people see results within days, which can last up to 4 months. Results may vary.

  3. Who performs the injections?

    All consultations and treatments are done by our physician medical director or certified physician assistant

  4. Is treatment with BOTOX® Cosmetic painful?

    Discomfort is usually minimal and brief. Prior to injecting, you may choose to numb the area with a cold pack or anesthetic cream. Many people return directly to work or normal activity following BOTOX® Cosmetic treatment.

  5. Who should not use BOTOX® Cosmetic?

    BOTOX® Cosmetic should not be used in the presence of infection at the proposed injection site(s) and in individuals with known hypersensitivity to any ingredient in the formulation. Patients with neurological disorders such as ALS, Myasthenia Gravis or Lambert-Eaton syndrome may be at increased risk of serious side effects.

  6. Will I experience any side effects?

    The most common side effects include headache, respiratory infection, flu syndrome, temporary eyelid droop, and nausea. Less frequently occurring (<3%) adverse reactions include pain in the face, erythema at the injection site, and muscle weakness. These events are thought to be associated with the injection and occurred within the first week. There is no chance of contracting botulism from BOTOX® injections and to date there have been no documented cases of disease transmission. The minute amount of toxin used is broken down and excreted by your body within 24-48 hours.

  7. Will my facial expressions continue to look natural?

    Although the results are visible, a treatment with BOTOX® Cosmetic will not radically change your facial appearance or make you look as if you “had work done.” The muscle activity that causes frown lines between the brows is simply reduced, so you can still frown or look surprised without the wrinkles and creases.

  8. What should I do after my treatment?

    Minimize exposure of the treated area to excessive sun and UV lamp exposure and extreme cold weather until any initial swelling and redness has resolved. It is not advised to have any other treatments such as laser or PhotoFacials™ in the area for about 2 weeks after the injection.

For additional general information about BOTOX®, visit www.botoxcosmetic.com.