+ How Do Botox Injections Work?

When injected into a muscle, Botox blocks the message that the muscle would normally receive from the brain. This message causes the muscle to relax. For example, the muscle action of squinting in the sun can be temporarily decreased or stopped with Botox injections.

+ How Long Will Botox Injections Last?

The effects of Botox usually last anywhere, from three to six months.

+ Do Botox Injections Hurt?

The discomfort associated with Botox is usually minimal. However, everybody feels pain differently. If needles bother you, then a product called EMLA cream can be used before the injections to take away any possible discomfort.

+ Are Botox Injections Safe?

Medical doctors have been injecting Botox since 1980. It was first used to treat “lazy eye” and Blepharospasm “uncontrollable blinking”.

+ What are Botox Injections Made From?

The Botox that is injected for wrinkles and other medical indications is purified of the toxin made from the bacteria, Clostridium Botulinum. It is important to know that the bacteria themselves are not injected, just the substance they make. Think of Botox and the bacteria that produce it as penicillin is to mold.

+ Are There Any Side Effects to Botox Injections?

Because Botox is injected into a specific area, if side effects occur, they tend to be localized to that area. There is a small chance of bruising at the site of injection – this bruising is the most common of the side effects, occurring less than 10% of the time. If there is bruising, it is generally small and easily covered with make-up. There have been no permanent side effects from Botox injections. Sometimes Botox can diffuse into surrounding muscles and produce weakness in areas which were not intended. This side effect is rare and only temporary.

+ Where Can Botox Be Injected?

The doctor can inject in the forehead area between the eyes to treat frown lines, across the forehead for the horizontal worry lines, at the side of the eyes for crow’s feet and in some cases, in the lower face. Botox can also be used to treat excessive sweating under the arms and in the palms of hands.