Frequently Asked Questions

  • What is Botox® Cosmetic?

    Botox® has been used therapeutically for more than 17yrs to treat a variety of medical conditions.  It is approved in more than 75 countries and remains the most studied botulinum toxin and one of the most widely researched medicines in the world.  In 2002, the same formulation-under the label Botox® Cosmetic- was approved by the US FDA for treatment of moderate to severe frown lines between the brows in people ages 18-65.

  • What causes frown lines between the brows?

    The lines that appear between your brows actually result from muscle movement and the passage of time.  When powerful muscles between the brows contract, they draw the brows together, causing the skin to fold or furrow.  As skin becomes less elastic with age, those folds or furrows result in stubborn lines.  Because frown lines are dynamic lines caused by overactive muscles, they can usually be treated with tiny injections of Botox® Cosmetic.  Static lines, on the other hand, are lines that are visible even when the muscles are at rest.  These lines are usually treated with a filler, such as Juvederm™ Injectable gel.

  • How does Botox® Cosmetic work?

    During treatment, very low doses of Botox® Cosmetic are administered via several tiny injections directly into the muscles responsible for frown lines between brows.  By blocking the release of a chemical that causes these muscles to contract, Botox® Cosmetic enables them to relax.  The effects are very localized and, when administered by an experienced physician, do not affect your ability to smile, laugh, or otherwise show expression. 

    It is quick and minimally invasive procedure.  No anesthesia is required, though you may choose to numb the area with a cold pack or anesthetic cream prior to injecting.  The procedure takes about 10 minutes, and there is no downtime.  Discomfort is minimal and brief.

  • What are the common side effects?

    The most common side effects following injection include temporary eyelid droop and nausea.  Localized pain, infection, inflammation, tenderness, swelling, redness, and/or bleeding/bruising may be associated with the injection. 

  • How soon will I see a difference?

    You can expect to see results within days after your treatment, and the appearance of the area between your brows may continue to improve for up to a week.  Visible results have shown to last up to 4mths; after that, many patients are ready to return for a follow-up treatment.  Your own results may vary--be sure to talk to your doctor about what you expect.