(619) 280.1609Many of my patients think that BOTOX® Cosmetic works right away to temporarily paralyze facial muscles. In order to help bust this myth and provide some solid medical information, I’ve put together this article.
What is BOTOX Made From?
@ natis76 – DepositPhotos
BOTOX and BOTOX Cosmetic contain a purified form of the toxin that comes from the bacteria Clostridium botulinum (onabotulinumtoxinA). This is the same toxin that causes botulism.
However, the difference between botulism and BOTOX is that when it is injected, the toxin goes straight into the muscle. There, it is contained from spreading throughout the body.
Where is BOTOX Cosmetic Used on the Face?
@ poznyakov – DepositPhotos – Model
BOTOX is used to temporarily paralyze facial muscles so that they can no longer move. This prevents wrinkles from forming in the treated areas because those muscles cannot move when certain facial expressions are made.
The FDA has approved BOTOX Cosmetic to be used in the following areas:
- Frown lines between the eyebrows
- Forehead lines
- Crow’s feet around the eyes
For patients with severe (deep) wrinkles and creases, BOTOX can be used in combination with dermal fillers to create a more youthful appearance. Allergan’s Juvederm® family of fillers is a top choice in my practice because they are versatile and extremely effective.
When BOTOX Starts Working
@ gstockstudio – DepositPhotos – Model
How long does it take for BOTOX to work? Every patient is different, so some people see it work faster than others. Usually, the effects of BOTOX start to become noticeable in as little as 3-4 days after injections. Patients will notice a lessening of movement in the treated areas, with some movement still occurring.
Once BOTOX has begun to fully work, the treated muscle(s) will no longer move when certain facial expressions are made. This results in an overall smoother and more youthful appearance.
It takes about 10-14 days after injection for BOTOX to fully paralyze facial muscles. Treatments last for about 3-4 months after injection.
Based on the treatment area, patients will notice changes at various times in the 10-14 day range. For example, if you have fine lines and wrinkles in the outer eye areas (crow’s feet), you may see optimal results in as little as 10 days.
In facial areas with larger muscle groups (deeper creases), the injected solution will take longer to penetrate the tissue. Forehead muscles and glabellar muscles (“elevens” in between the eyes) can take the longest to respond to treatment. In other words, this is where a 14-day time frame is more realistic.
Get BOTOX in San Diego with Dr. Aeria Chang | Beatitude Aesthetic Medicine
Dr. Aeria Chang has been safely injecting patients since 2008. She has the expertise and experience to deliver safe and beautiful results. Call our office today to schedule your consultation. Our practice is one of the few “medspas” in San Diego County to offer doctor-delivered cosmetic injectables and procedures.
With a doctor doing your treatments, you can be assured that you’re getting the very best…and that’s what you deserve. Dr. Chang is a Platinum Injection for Allergan – one of the top 5% of injectors in the country based on the number of BOTOX injections she does each year.
Call her today at (619) 280-1609.
