Botox

Botox has been available on prescription in the U.S. since the FDA approved it in 2002, and since then it has gained popularity year on year as a method of cosmetic improvement. Our eyes the most noticeable feature on our face, but over time the skin around them can start to sag and become wrinkled – you have probably heard the expression ‘crow’s feet’. Many people, and women in particular, lose confidence when this begins to happen and an increasing number of them are choosing to use Botox to smooth out the lines, wrinkles and sagging, and restore a more youthful appearance to their eyes.

How does Botox work?

Botox works by blocking nerve impulses that cause muscles to contract and cause wrinkles. Without a contracting muscle underneath is, the skin has a hard time wrinkling and instead retains a smooth appearance.

The injections themselves take around 10 minutes to perform and there is absolutely no recovery time required. You will begin to notice a different in the skin around the injection site within a few days. This is because Botox requires two to four days for it to attach itself to the nerve ending that would normally stimulate the muscle to contract. Your optimum result will probably be available approximately two weeks after your procedure.

Does it hurt?

One of the biggest questions asked about Botox is whether or not it hurts. Well of course any type of injection pierces the skin which can hurt, but Botox needles are extremely small and thin so any pain in minimal. If necessary, the area can be numbed with a local anesthetic before your appointment.

Are there any side effects?

Botox is an extremely common cosmetic procedure, and the majority of people experience no adverse effects. However, as with all medical treatments, there is a risk of side effects. The most common side effects associated with Botox include:

- Pain at the injection site

- Inflammation

- Swelling

- Redness

- Infection

- Bleeding

- Bruising

However, in the majority of cases these side effects are mild and wear off relatively quickly.

Some people find that they are allergic to Botox. If this is the case you may experience symptoms such as itching, a skin rash, wheezing, dizziness, faintness or breathing difficulties. If any of these occur, you should seek immediate medical advice.

Am I a good candidate for Botox?

The FDA has approved Botox for people who are aged between 18 and 65 years of age. However, Botox is not suitable for everyone, and should be avoided if you:

- Are allergic to any of the ingredients

- Have a skin condition or infection in the injection area

- Have any disease that affects your muscles or nerves

- Have difficulty swallowing

- Have problems with bleeding

- Have breathing conditions or problems such as asthma

- Have had facial surgery

- Have any sort of weakness in your forehead muscles

- Have dropping eyelids

- Are on particular medications (your optometrist will be able to advise)

- Are pregnant or nursing

How much does Botox cost?

The cost of Botox varies from practitioner to practitioner, but typically costs anywhere from $200 to $400 per ‘zone’ of treatment, for example the crow’s feet may count as one zone, whereas the forehead would count as another zone. Contact Dr. Howard Kornstein for more information you deserve to know.