BOTOX: A Shot To Turn Back the Years

Since 2000, BOTOX has been the most common cosmetic services procedure performed, according to the American Society for Plastic Surgery (ASAPS). In 2014, the ASAPS reported that nearly 4 million nonsurgical procedures using botulinum toxin were performed.

History of BOTOX

BOTOX was initially approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to treat two eye-related medical conditions. One was for uncontrolled blinking called blepharospasm, while the other was for misaligned eyes (commonly referred to as lazy eye), called strabismus.

While performing the injections for these two procedures and monitoring the results, doctors began to notice that the frown lines between the eyebrows appeared to be softened, which was a very desired side effect for people who look tired or older than than their real age. It was in this discovery that BOTOX cosmetic was born.

Today, in addition to other medical treatments for botulinum toxin, such as migraines, the cosmetic form is most commonly used moderate or severe frown lines that are often seen between the eyebrows – called glabellar lines. However, it is also used cosmetically for other problem areas on the facial region, including crow’s feet, which are lines around the eyes.

How it is Done

Getting the procedure is quick and relatively pain free. No anesthesia is used and the procedure takes all but a few minutes.  Dr. Dietzek injects the medication using a fine needle, where he targets specific muscles. Because a very fine needle is used, there is generally only minor discomfort.

How Long Does it Take to Notice a Difference and How Long Does it Last?