Adonis Maiquez, M.D.
BOTOX® Cosmetic - Frequent Asked Questions:
What is BOTOX® Cosmetic?
BOTOX® Cosmetic is a purified protein produced by the Clostridium botulinum bacterium. It
is a non-surgical, physician-administered treatment that can temporarily reduce moderate to
severe frown lines between the brows. During treatment, very low doses of BOTOX®
Cosmetic are administered via a few tiny injections directly into the muscles that cause
those stubborn lines. The treatment is usually done in about 10-20 minutes, and no
recovery time is needed. Within days, you may see an improvement that can last up to 4
months. Results may vary.
How does BOTOX® Cosmetic work?
Those moderate to severe frown lines between your brows form over time as the result of
muscle activity. BOTOX® Cosmetic is injected directly into the muscles between your brows.
It works by blocking the transmission of nerve impulses to the injected muscles; this reduces
the activity of the muscles that cause those persistent lines to form.
Is treatment with BOTOX® Cosmetic painful?
Discomfort is usually minimal and brief. Prior to injecting, your physician may choose to
numb the area with a cold pack or anesthetic cream. The entire procedure takes
approximately 10 minutes. Many people return directly to work or normal activity following
BOTOX® Cosmetic treatment.
Who should not use BOTOX® Cosmetic?
BOTOX® Cosmetic should not be used in the presence of infection at the proposed
injection site(s) and in individuals with known hypersensitivity to any ingredient in the
formulation. Patients with neurological disorders such as ALS, Myasthenia Gravis or
Lambert-Eaton syndrome may be at increased risk of serious side effects.
Are there any side effects?
The most common side effects include headache, respiratory infection, flu syndrome,
temporary eyelid droop, and nausea. Less frequently occurring (<3%) adverse reactions
include pain in the face, erythema at the injection site, and muscle weakness. These events
are thought to be associated with the injection and occurred within the first week.
Will my facial expressions continue to look natural?
Although the results are visible, a treatment with BOTOX® Cosmetic will not radically
change your facial appearance or make you look as if you "had work done." The muscle
activity that causes frown lines between the brows is simply reduced, so you can still frown
or look surprised without the wrinkles and creases between your brows.
What are the benefits of BOTOX® Cosmetic?
Reduce and diminish wrinkles. Stop progression of current wrinkles. Younger looking skin.
Look younger and fresh.
Pre-Botox Forehead Pre-Botox Post-Botox