Botox has become one of the most popular cosmetic procedures

in the world. This is due in large part because it is so effective at restoring

a youthful appearance to the face. Botox or

botulinum toxin type A is derived from the bacteria clostridium botulinum.

It was first developed to treat facial spasms back in the early 1980s

and was discovered to improve the appearance of wrinkles on the face.

It is injected in very small doses mostly around the eyes,

brows, and forehead. Is also sometimes injected in very small quantities around

the lips. There are now 3 brands of Botox on the market

in the United States. Dysport and Xeomin are the newest brands,

however all three are equally effective and we use them interchangeably.

Botox works by blocking communication between

nerves and muscles. It attaches itself to the inside of the nerve ending

and doesn’t allow the nerve to stimulate the muscle to contract.

When muscles can’t contract they can’t form wrinkles in the face.

It is very important to choose a physician who understands facial anatomy

who can place the Botox in the right locations

to give you a relaxed appearance without causing droopy brows or eyelids,

or unusual facial expressions.

Botox lasts between 3 and 6 months in most of our patients. Usually by four months

the muscle contraction has returned to some degree. There are very few possible

complications or side effects with Botox, but when they happen they can be frustrating

It is possible to get Botox in the wrong place and cause a droopy eyelid

or sagging facial muscles. In most cases this improves after a few weeks

and symptoms will completely resolved by three months.

People who are allergic to eggs or albumin or have had bad reactions

to immunizations should avoid Botox. If you are pregnant or nursing

Botox is contraindicated. Getting Botox injected is fairly simple.

After a brief consultation the office where we discuss what bothers you about your face

and what we can do with Botox or filler we can make a plan

as to how much we will inject and what locations. I inject Botox with a very small

31 gauge needle. Very few patients even require any type of topical anesthetic because

of the size of the needle. After the injections

you have small bumps, and these go away after about an hour.

Bleeding from the injection sites is also very rare.

It is also uncommon to have any bruising, although this does occur from time to time.

In short, Botox is a very safe and effective way to reduce facial wrinkles.

It can’t be surprisingly effective at creating a more youthful and rested appearance.

Call our office today to schedule an appointment or a free consultation

for Botox or filler treatment. Thanks for choosing Utah Oculoplastic Consultants.

We look forward to helping you look and feel your best.