BOTOX ® has become more and more popular as a quick and easy treatment for facial lines and wrinkles. This injectable treatment is particularly effective on "frown lines"--lines on the forehead or between the eyebrows caused by contracting the brow, as well as wrinkled around the mouth.
A derivative of the botulism virus, BOTOX ® actually paralyzes the muscles that contract areas of the face, making it impossible for them to draw in and create wrinkles. Both men and women have used BOTOX ® to reduce the signs of aging and increase self-esteem. Some reasons BOTOX ® has become such a popular choice include:
1. Lower Cost Option
Individual BOTOX ® treatments are fairly reasonably priced, particularly as compared to face lifts or other cosmetic facal surgery. Increase in competition among those administering the procedure has brought prices down even more, making BOTOX ® quite affordable in most cases. Some dermatologists even run specials on BOTOX ® treatments, reducing the price of individual sessions or providing lower prices per treatment for multiple treatments. As BOTOX ® treatments need to be repeated on a regular basis to maintain optimum results--usually about four to six months--these treatment packages can help save even more money in the long run.
2. Proven Track Record
BOTOX ® was approved by the FDA for certain medical applications in 1989, and has been approved for cosmetic purposes since 2002. Since then, many, many patients have received this procedure successfully. A large number of dermatologists and cosmetic surgeons are experienced in administering BOTOX ® , and have a proven record of successful treatments. Qualified, licensed professionals are easy to find, making treatment convenient and safe.
3. Painless and Easy
Before BOTOX ® shots are administered, a numbing agent is applied to the skin, making the actual injections virtually painless. A typical treatment takes less than an hour, and can be performed in the dermatologist's office with little necessary preparation or post-procedure care. Following the doctor's instructions can prevent the BOTOX ® from migrating to other areas of the face, but other than these precautions, very little aftercare is necessary.
4. Nearly Instantaneous Results
After a BOTOX ® treatment, results can be seen almost right away. While optimum results take a short amount of time to take full effect, a visible difference can be seen as soon as the treatment is finished. Wrinkles will appear softer, and after a short time, will virtually disappear. After about a week, the treatment will have reached its optimum effect, and will last several months, as the paralysis effect wears off, allowing the facial muscles to contract once again. At this point, wrinkles will again become visible.
5. No Downtime
After a treatment, patients can leave the office and go about a normal day without need for long-term recuperation. Some swelling, redness or bruising can occur sometimes after treatment, but these side effects are usually minimal. Patients should not lie flat for at least four hours after treatment, and should avoid rubbing the treated areas for at least twenty-four hours. As with any cosmetic procedure, following the doctor's instructions will increase the effectiveness of the treatment, as well as reduce recovery time.
