Botox is a prescription medication approved for several different uses. Although the drug is well known for its ability to improve the appearance of facial lines and wrinkles, it is also approved for treating other conditions.
Botox injections work by weakening or paralyzing certain muscles or by blocking certain nerves. The effects last about 3-12 months, depending on what you are treating. The most common side effects of Botox are pain, swelling or bruising at the injection site.
Botox injections are very simple to perform and usually take less than 5 minutes per facial area. A topical anesthetic is typically used to ensure comfort during the treatment. During Botox treatment in Phoenix, Dr. Holy uses a tiny micro-needle to very precisely inject the botulinum toxin type A serum into select facial muscles.
Some patients see results within a few days, while most see results by one week. Within 1-2 weeks of the Botox injections, the treated facial muscles become temporarily relaxed, causing the overlying skin to lay flat and unwrinkled. The untreated facial muscles contract in a normal fashion, allowing normal facial expression to be unaffected.
Although individual results vary, most patients can expect significant wrinkle reduction for about 4 months following the Botox injections. To maintain the desired wrinkle reduction effects, treatments can and should be repeated about every four or five months. The results tend to last longer with subsequent treatments.
When to Begin Botox Treatment
There is no legal age for Botox per se. Botox Cosmetic is FDA approved for use in patients 18 to 65 years.
Botox is one of the most popular wrinkle treatments available – among many different age groups. Middle-aged patients with existing facial lines use Botox to regain youthful skin. And younger patients (even some in their 20s) choose Botox to prevent wrinkles from ever forming. Depending on your aging concerns, taking an offensive approach to facial lines may be the ideal plan.
Botox is just one of several cosmetic procedures to reduce facial wrinkles. If you’re frustrated with lines on your face, contact THE CENTER for Advanced Dermatology at 602-867-7546 or website to schedule an appointment with Dr. Holy to determine the best wrinkle reducing option for you.