Botox is a neurotoxic protein which is produced by the bacterium Clostridium botulinum.
Clostridium botulinum is an organism found in the natural environment where it is largely inactive and non-toxic. Clostridium botulinum, the organism from which Botox is derived, is found in inactive form in the natural environment, including in the forest and cultivated soils, and in the sediment of lakes, streams, coastal and untreated waters.

Botox is formulated to treat moderate to severe crow’s feet (lines around the eyes), as well as frown lines between the eyes, also known as glabellar lines or “elevens.”

Botox is injected to treat certain muscular conditions and cosmetically remove wrinkles by temporarily paralyzing muscles. When injected in small amounts, Botox can weaken a muscle for up to 4 months.

Yes, Botox was approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for cosmetic use in April 2002. It has been approved for the treatment of several medical conditions since 1989.

Within a few hours to a couple of days after the Botox is injected into the affected muscle(s), the spasms or contractions are reduced or eliminated altogether.

A single Botox treatment can last anywhere from 3-8 months.  It is at your discretion as to whether you are satisfied with the results from your first treatment.

Botox should not be used in pregnant or lactating women, or by people who have had a previous allergic reaction to the drug or any of its ingredients. Some patients have experienced headaches, mild nausea, mild pain at the site of the injection, temporary weakness/paralysis of the area close to the site of injection, blurred vision, double vision, fatigue, rashes, wheezing and swelling. For a complete list of side effects and warnings, visit our office to read the Important Safety Information pamphlet from the manufacturer.

Botulinum Toxin is the official name but is also known as Botox, Botox Cosmetic, Myobloc and Dysport. It is important to know that these injectables are not compatible and should never be mixed.

Yes, there are several conditions in which Botox has been approved for treatment. Conditions such as:

• Focal Hyperhidrosis (excessive sweating)
• Blepharospasm (uncontrolled eye spasms and twitching)
• Strabismus (improper alignment of the eyes  “crossed eyes”)
• Chronic migraines
• Various muscular conditions
• Bladder weakness
• Bowel disorders