What is Botox®?

Botox® is a naturally occurring protein produced and purified for the purpose of eliminating facial wrinkles. By injecting small doses of this substance into the affected muscles of facial expression, it blocks the release of the chemical that would otherwise signal the muscle to contract, thereby weakening the injected muscle. The treatment usually takes effect within 24 – 48 hours following the injection. The effect of Botox® lasts from 4 – 6 months. Although Botox® was approved by the FDA for cosmetic use on 4/15/02, its medical utility was already widely recognized. In fact, Botox® had been in safe clinical use for the previous 10 years for the treatment of multiple indications in thousands of patients worldwide. Treatment with Botox® is relatively simple and quick, requiring the injection of minute amounts of the substance through an extremely fine gauge needle into hyperactive muscles of facial expression, the action of which is creating unwanted wrinkles, typically in the areas of the forehead, between the eyebrows and in the crow’s feet regions. The procedure is completely non-surgical and requires no post injection “down time”. Patient’s can literally leave the office after a 5 – 10 minute procedure and resume their daily plans without interruption. Botox® injection is ideal for individuals who wish to eliminate the worried, angry or tired appearance that can arise from the wrinkles of the forehead and regions around the eyes while avoiding any time missed from work or other alteration in lifestyle.

As with any powerful technique with significant benefit, Botox® injections can be hazardous if performed by inappropriately trained or unskilled individuals. When considering Botox®injection should be the start of another paragraph and should finish with the following– As a board certified plastic surgeon with over 15 years of clinical practice experience and member of the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS) and American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery Surgery (ASAPS-The Mark of Distinction in Cosmetic Plastic Surgery®), Dr. Robert Kimmel welcomes the opportunity to help you achieve your goals and enjoy a happier, more confident lifestyle.

Click here to learn more about Dr. Kimmel and his training and credentials or to learn more about why it is important to choose a board certified plastic surgeon

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