What is BOTOX® Cosmetic?
BOTOX® Cosmetic is an injectable agent used to temporarily diminish or eliminate lines and wrinkles on the face by relaxing underlying facial muscles. It is derived from botulinum toxin type A, a bacterium-produced neuromuscular toxin that can be deadly in a pure state. BOTOX® Cosmetic contains a highly diluted form of the toxin and has been proven safe. For this reason, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration has approved BOTOX® botulinum toxin treatment for alleviating eye-muscle disorders and smoothing frown lines. This exceptional treatment is often used in conjunction with facial plastic surgery procedures such as a face lift or eyelid lift to maximize its cosmetic benefit.
BOTOX® Cosmetic Candidates
Ideal BOTOX® Cosmetic candidates skin treatment are those who wish to see an improvement in their facial lines and wrinkles, but either do not wish to commit to a facial surgery, or simply cannot tolerate surgery. There are some minimal side effects that have been noted with BOTOX® treatment, but these usually go away very quickly. Pregnant women are advised to avoid treatment, as the effect on the fetus is not yet known, and patients with certain neurological disorders are not considered good candidates.
Risks and Benefits of BOTOX® Cosmetic
The main potential benefit of BOTOX® injectable skin treatments is the chance to take years off of your facial appearance by eliminating frown lines, crow’s feet, and other minor facial wrinkles. There have been very few potential risks of BOTOX® that have come to light thus far, though pregnant women, patients suffering from neurological disorders, and people taking certain medications and antibiotics are not considered good candidates for the procedure.