Surgical
Procedures
Facial Surgery
Botox
The use of Botox (botulinum toxin type A) is not new.
Botox has been used in the clinical setting for many years to
weaken or paralyze muscle groups. It has been used by ophthalmologists
to treat strabismus in children and neurologists to treat torticolis
and balance facial paralysis. Basically, there are many spastic
disorders that have been treated with Botox.
Concept - The application
of this tool to beautification has become most popular in the
last several years after experienced clinicians noted improvement
in facial wrinkles when used clinically. 
The more visible wrinkles we demonstrate are “dynamic lines”.
These are creases in the skin perpendicular to the direction of
the acting muscle group. If Botox is used to weaken these muscles,
the lines will be less obvious.
Frown lines are most commonly treated. However, crow’s
feet, peri-oral wrinkles, and neckbands may also be injected.
This is an easy way to see if you like the effect of a brow lift.
Procedure - The
procedure is done at our office on an out patient basis. A small,
30 gauge, needle is used to inject the agent into the skin (dermis)
above the desired muscle group.
Recovery - It may
take several days to take effect, and may last up to 3 months.
When muscle function starts to return, re-injection will be required
to maintain the result. The result seems to improve with each
injection.
Back to Work - Right
away - no recovery period is required
Complications -
Possible temporary eyelid ptosis (drooping) if too much
agent is placed near the levator muscle of the eyelid, allergic
reactions, and bruising from the injection.
