Millions of people worried about their aged appearances have benefited from botox therapy. By injecting purified forms of the toxin known as botox, cosmetic surgeons can use botox therapy to reduce the appearance of lines and wrinkles in the face, especially around the eyes, lips and forehead. Botox therapy, initially used to address spastic muscles, uses small amounts of toxins to temporarily immobilize the muscles that create wrinkles and lines in the face. During botox therapy, a surgeon injects botox into muscle tissue with a very fine needle. The temporary paralysis created by botox therapy causes the facial tissue to relax, creating a smoother, more youthful appearance.

One of the most appealing aspects of botox therapy is the speed of treatment and recovery: most patients complete their botox therapy in ten minutes or less, in the comfort of their doctor's office, and are immediately able to return to their regular activities (although heavy physical activity is discouraged for 4-6 hours following botox therapy). The results are visible within days, and depending upon the individual and the area treated, botox therapy lasts for four months or longer. Most patients are so pleased with their appearance that they schedule additional botox therapy sessions every four to six months in order to maintain their results.

Not everyone is a good candidate for botox therapy. Pregnant and nursing women should not receive botox injections, and botox therapy may not be advisable for patients with certain neuromuscular diseases. For approximately ten days prior to receiving botox therapy, patients should cease taking all daily multivitamins and vitamin E, St. John's Wort, and anti-inflammatory medications, as these may exacerbate certain botox therapy side effects such as bruising. To find out if you are a suitable candidate for botox therapy, and to learn more about the treatment, contact a board-certified plastic surgeon who has experience in performing botox therapy.