Botox Specialist

How Do BOTOX® Injections Work to Smooth Wrinkles and Lines?

BOTOX® works on dynamic wrinkles, lines, and creases that form as a result of repeated facial motions like smiling and frowning. Over time, these motions cause the skin to form permanent lines. BOTOX® works by blocking the nerve signals that cause facial muscles to contract. When contractions are prevented, the muscles can't tug on skin so lines and wrinkles won't form. BOTOX® isn't designed to work on wrinkles due to sun damage, genetics or gravity (called static wrinkles). Instead, these wrinkles can be treated with fillers, dermabrasion or chemical peels. Many patients have both BOTOX® and cosmetic fillers to treat dynamic and static wrinkles.

Where is BOTOX® Used?

BOTOX® is used primarily to treat wrinkles in the upper third of the face, including wrinkles at the corners of the eyes, frown lines between the brows and horizontal forehead lines. It may also be used in some patients to treat tiny vertical lines that form around the lips.

What Happens During BOTOX® Treatment?

Prior to treatment, an evaluation of the face is performed to determine the best placements for the injections. Once these areas have been identified and gently cleansed, BOTOX® is injected using very fine needles. The number of injections will depend on the size of the area being treated and the extent and depth of the wrinkles. Most BOTOX® treatments take just a few minutes to perform. Once injections are complete, minor temporary bruising and redness can occur. Ice can be gently applied to the area to reduce bruising, but rubbing must be avoided to ensure the BOTOX® solution remains in the treatment area.

How Soon Will I See Results?

Initial results may be visible in a few days, with optimal benefits appearing in a few weeks.

How Long Do the Results Typically Last?

BOTOX® results usually last from four to six months. Having routine touch-up treatments can extend the results indefinitely. Many patients also report that having repeated treatments can help soften lines and wrinkles so that fewer treatments are needed to maintain the effects.