Botox®

Before and After Photos

BOTOX® COSMETIC (Botulinum Toxin Type A) Purified Neurotoxin Complex, often referred to by its product name Botox®, is a popular non-surgical injection that temporarily reduces or eliminates frown lines, forehead creases, crows feet near the eyes and thick bands in the neck. The toxin blocks the nerve impulses, temporarily paralyzing the muscles that cause wrinkles while giving the skin a smoother, more refreshed appearance.

BOTOX® COSMETIC blocks neuromuscular transmission by binding to acceptor sites on motor nerve terminals, entering the nerve terminals, and inhibiting the release of acetylcholine. This inhibition occurs as the neurotoxin cleaves SNAP-25, a protein integral to the successful docking and release of acetylcholine from vesicles situated within nerve endings. When injected intramuscularly at therapeutic doses, BOTOX® COSMETIC produces partial chemical denervation of the muscle resulting in a localized reduction in muscle activity.

This injection is directly into the muscle to be affected and is dose related so that larger muscles require larger volumes to achieve a similar effect. Studies have also suggested that Botox is effective in relieving migraine headaches, excessive sweating and muscle spasms in the neck and eyes.

Off label uses of the drug for crows feet and lip wrinkles may sometimes be utilized.