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BOTOX: A Shot To Turn Back the Years

Since 2000, BOTOX has been the most common cosmetic services procedure performed, according to the American Society for Plastic Surgery (ASAPS). In 2014, the ASAPS reported that nearly 4 million nonsurgical procedures using botulinum toxin were performed.

History of BOTOX

BOTOX was initially approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to treat two eye-related medical conditions. One was for uncontrolled blinking called blepharospasm, while the other was for misaligned eyes (commonly referred to as lazy eye), called strabismus.

While performing the injections for these two procedures and monitoring the results, doctors began to notice that the frown lines between the eyebrows appeared to be softened, which was a very desired side effect for people who look tired or older than than their real age. It was in this discovery that BOTOX cosmetic was born.

Today, in addition to other medical treatments for botulinum toxin, such as migraines, the cosmetic form is most commonly used moderate or severe frown lines that are often seen between the eyebrows – called glabellar lines. However, it is also used cosmetically for other problem areas on the facial region, including crow’s feet, which are lines around the eyes.

How it is Done

Getting the procedure is quick and relatively pain free. No anesthesia is used and the procedure takes all but a few minutes.  Dr. Dietzek injects the medication using a fine needle, where he targets specific muscles. Because a very fine needle is used, there is generally only minor discomfort.

How Long Does it Take to Notice a Difference and How Long Does it Last?

Botox

Most women notice a full effect of the injection within three to five days. These effects last up to a half a year, or six months. The effects will gradually lessen, and the fine lines and wrinkles will reappear. For many women, the reemergence of these fine lines and wrinkles are less severe, as their muscles are becoming trained to relax.Published in the journal JAMA Facial Plastic Surgery, a new study found the BOTOX may offer the benefits of elasticity and pliability of skin for up to four months. What’s more, the study revealed that the injection can temporarily reverse the signs of skin damage caused by UV exposure and aging. In other words, instead of hiding wrinkles, the drug may actually produce more skin elasticity and improve future resistance to wrinkles.

It is important to note, that this Canadian study was one of the first of its kind, and it was relatively small. Only 48 women were enrolled in the study, who received treatment to reduce the appearance of mild wrinkles both around their eyes and forehead. That said, the study shows promise of even more benefits of BOTOX than originally discovered.

To learn more about how BOTOX can help reduce the appearance of lines and wrinkles, call Dr. Dietzek at 856-309-8346 for a consultation.