What is Botox?
Botox cosmetic is made from botulinum toxin, a bacterial product that temporarily paralyzes the muscles of the face.  In small quantities, Botox is a simple, non-surgical procedure that soothes wrinkles of the forehead, between the eyebrows and around the eyes.  It can also be used in small amounts around the mouth to soften wrinkles in this area.  Finally, Botox can be used to treat hyperhidrosis, a medical condition characterized by excessive sweating of the underarms, hands, or feet.

How long does Botox last?
Botox treatments on the face typically last 3 – 4 months and can last up to 6 months.  Treatments in the underarms, palms, or soles usually last 7 months and can remain up to 12 months.

Will I be able to express emotion after Botox treatment?
Yes.  While treated wrinkles will be lessened, “facial freezing” is not normal.  Most people report looking more natural and relaxed.

What can I expect?
Botox treatments take 5-10 minutes to complete.  A few injections with a very fine needle are placed into the area to be treated.  The patient is asked to use the muscles of facial expression after the treatment to help with the uptake of Botox.  After the initial treatment, results can take up to 7-10 days.  Subsequent injections take effect within 1-2 days.

What are the side effects of Botox injections?
While most people experience little or no difficulty with Botox injections, it is possible to experience one or more of the following:

• Slight, temporary bruising at injection site
• Mild, transient headache
  
• Mild pain with injection

Rare side effects include:

• Ptosis (drooping of the eyelid) – This occurs in less than 2 % of patients and can be reversed with eye drops that stimulate alternative muscles to lift the eyelid.
• Temporary difficulty pursing the lips in areas treated around the mouth