BOTOX® Therapy: Frown Lines, Crow's Feet, Neck Bands
Botox® Therapy is an FDA approved treatment method to smooth and eliminate forehead lines, frown lines, crow’s feet and neck bands. Frown lines are wrinkles which form between the eyebrows and crow’s feet form around the eyes. Overactive facial muscles around the eyes and lower forehead may give a person an angry, tired, or displeased appearance - even when they are not experiencing that emotion. Professional use of BOTOX® can lead to a more relaxed, yet expressive face. Neck bands are visible bands on the neck formed as a result of aging. The cords or bands that protrude from the neck tend to sag with the aging process and pull the neck down. Certain patients can get significant lift with BOTOX® injection into these neckbands. It works by relaxing the contracted muscles which cause these wrinkles. Botox® blocks signals sent from the nerves to the muscles that causes relaxation of muscles and treat these lines.
Procedure: It is a simple office procedure. The area to be treated is cleansed thoroughly. A topical anesthetic cream is applied to reduce discomfort and the BOTOX® toxin is injected with a fine needle directly into the muscle beneath the wrinkle. The muscle function becomes weakened, eliminating part or all of its function. Long standing skin creases will soften and may eventually disappear. The result is a softer, more relaxed and pleasant appearance.
The procedure takes about 10 minutes. You may return to work immediately. It is a painless procedure, though a slight stinging sensation may be felt.
Adverse Effects: Redness and bruising at the site of injection may be seen which will resolve in a day or two. You may experience mild headache also. Double vision, drooping or swollen eyelid, dry eyes, and reduced blinking are other side effects.
Precautions: To reduce bruising after treatment:
- Avoid alcohol consumption at least 1 week before treatment.
- Stop taking anti-inflammatory medicines and aspirin 2 weeks prior to treatment.
- Avoid rubbing the treated area or lying down after your treatment as the injected botulinum toxin can spread to other areas nearby and paralyze nerves.
Results: The outcomes of Botox® therapy usually last from four to six months. If you are dissatisfied with the benefits from a single injection, a second injection can be given after 1 week. Once you get a satisfactory result, the next visit is scheduled after 2-3 months.