BOTOX® COSMETIC in Columbus, Ohio

What is BOTOX® COSMETIC and what can it do for me? 
BOTOX® Cosmetic (botulinum toxin) is a solution which can be injected under the skin surface to temporarily weaken the muscles. It is safe and has proven to deliver consistent and reliable results. BOTOX® Cosmetic has a number of helpful applications in medical practice including treating muscle spasticity, tremors, and voice disorders.  It is most widely known, of course, for its ability to treat wrinkles and fine lines in the face.  BOTOX® Cosmetic is injected with a very fine needle under the skin in the office setting.  The improvements in the wrinkles of the face begin to appear 3 days after the injection and achieve the maximal effect after 7 days.

BOTOX® Cosmetic is both a "treatment" and prevention for wrinkles that develop as a result of repetitive facial expression- especially those that have become habits. The BOTOX® Cosmetic solution will relax the muscles and smooth existing deep creases and wrinkles.  It also prevents the development of permanent architectural changes in the skin structure that will eventually develop into the deep creases that are evident even when your face is completely relaxed.

What areas of the face can be treated?
The forehead (worry lines), glabellar (vertical frown lines between the brows), and the periorbital areas (crow's feet or smile lines) are the most common areas treated with BOTOX® Cosmetic. Precise placement of the medicine in the brow will produce both relaxation and smoothing of wrinkles.  Many people develop a slight ptosis or "drop" of the brow line with age and BOTOX® Cosmetic can provide a gentle lift.  Treatment can be also focused on the outer aspect of the brow giving a gentle, natural "arch" to the outer brow.  BOTOX® Cosmetic is one of the few ways to smooth the periorbital "crow's feet" and is commonly used in this area as well.

In some cases, BOTOX® Cosmetic is injected into the areas of the upper lip or chin to treat vertical wrinkles that frequently appear in this area.  Special care is required here to avoid interfering with the movement of the upper lip that patients need for everyday life. It can also be used to relax the bands or cords that appear in the neck area.  If you have questions about this area, speak with your doctor.

How long does BOTOX® Cosmetic work? 
The injection begins to take effect in the days immediately following placement.  Patients should see the result about 5-7 days after the treatment.  Although patients vary in response, most see the improvements persist for at least 3 to 6 months and in some cases longer. Results last longer in the forehead and between the eyebrows but everyone has an individual response.

Will I still "natural facial expression" after my treatment?  
The careful placement of the BOTOX® Cosmetic injection will ensure that you achieve the smoothest skin surface but will maintain movement that is critical for a natural appearance and expression.  The most experienced physician understands the location and function of the muscles and will help you achieve your desired result.

How do I know when it's time for another injection?
Patients decide when the time is right.  In general, BOTOX® Cosmetic works well for 3-6 months and then the movement returns quite quickly.  This is the optimal time for a re-treatment.  There is no advantage in getting an injection before the muscle movement has returned.  Your doctor can help you assess the return of muscular function and will guide you on your decision.

Is BOTOX® Cosmetic safe and will I develop a resistance if I have repeated injections?BOTOX® Cosmetic is very safe and has been used in the United States for years to treat a number of medical problems.  Patients do not require allergic testing prior to treatment.  Repeated injections are very safe and patients will not develop a resistance over time. Patients can also decide to delay treatments or stop completely at any time.

What is the injection experience and how do I care for my face after my treatment?BOTOX® Cosmetic is injected in the office under sterile conditions.  Precision placement of the solution does require multiple injection sites as well as a good understanding of your anatomy.  Patients are given cool compresses, ice, or topical local cream as needed.  After the treatment, patients are asked to abstain from intense physical exercise until the following day. Otherwise, your normal routine can be resumed immediately.  Because the needles used are so small, cosmetics may be reapplied immediately after the injection.

Can other procedures be performed at the same time as my BOTOX® Cosmetic treatment?
BOTOX® Cosmetic can be placed in conjunction with most other facial plastic surgery procedures.  Commonly, patients will undergo the placement of a Filler Material at the same time to achieve the optimal result.  Please refer to the webpage on Filler Materials for more information.

How should I choose my doctor?  
There are so many options now for BOTOX ® Cosmetic injections and patients need to choose an experienced physician, one who has a good understanding of the facial anatomy. Proper injection requires not only good training on technique, but also a surgical anatomical knowledge of the exact location and function of the facial muscles.  Only then can you truly take advantage of the tissue sculpting potential of BOTOX ® Cosmetic. Our physicians at The Sullivan Centre for Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery will perform a careful medical examination and will tailor a treatment plan that is unique to your goals.  Our team is committed to providing you a truly exceptional experience.

BOTOX ® Cosmetic is a registered trademark of Allergan, Inc.