Botox Cosmetic

Botox Cosmetic treatments are performed by Dr. Phyllis J. Smith and certified nurse practitioner Jill Brown for patients in our Huntington, NY office, so they can prevent the formation of dynamic wrinkles. Botox prevents and corrects those wrinkles that are caused by the contractions of the delicate underlying facial muscles every time you smile, laugh or frown. These lines caused by facial muscles can give a person an angry, tired or sad appearance – even when they are not experiencing that emotion. The more emotion you show, the deeper these wrinkles and lines are likely to be.

What is Botox?

It is a neuromodulator used to safely, simply and effectively improve the appearance of frown lines, forehead creases and “crow’s feet.” By relaxing the underlying muscles, it reduces wrinkles. Botox Cosmetic is a remarkable treatment for dynamic wrinkles resulting from repeated use of facial muscles.

Does it cause botulism?

No. The words “botulinum toxin” often bring to mind images of botulism and food poisoning. Botox is approved by the FDA as a safe and effective treatment for wrinkles and frown lines. Botulinum toxin has been used to treat neurological disorders for over 30 years. Additionally, the National Institutes of Health issued a consensus statement over a two decades ago about the safe use of botulinum toxin for therapeutic use.

How does it work?

Botox Cosmetic actually prevents wrinkles from appearing by relaxing the underlying muscles so they don’t contract. It blocks impulses from the nerve to the tiny facial muscles that are related to expression lines. After treatment, the overlying skin remains smooth and unwrinkled while the untreated facial muscles contract in a normal fashion, allowing your normal facial expression to be unaffected.

Does it have limitations?

Unfortunately, Botox is a temporary solution for the treatment of dynamic wrinkles. The effects of the treatments last from 3 – 6 months. You will need to have treatments about 2 – 3 times a year. Early clinical studies indicate that after receiving Botox over time, there appears to be a longer lasting effect. This could be due to the relaxing of the skin in that area and breaking the habit of certain facial expressions.

What if I take other medications?

Most patients can usually be treated regardless of other drugs used. However, some drugs that interfere with nerve impulses to muscles could alter the effect of Botox Cosmetic. It is important to let Dr. Smith know what drugs you are taking during your consultation before undergoing any medical procedure.

Your Consultation

During your consultation with Dr. Smith you will discuss your concerns and the changes that you’d like to make in your appearance. She will explain the Botox treatments and wrinkle fillers to you, review the procedures, and point out their risks and limitations. Together you will decide what is most appropriate for you.

What is a treatment like?

Treating wrinkles is a simple and safe procedure and the entire treatment takes about 10 minutes.

Dr. Smith performs these treatments using a tiny micro-needle. A very small amount of Botox is injected, very precisely, into several locations on your face. Because the needle is so fine and only a small amount of liquid is used, the pain associated with the treatment is minimal. Most patients compare the sensation to a bug bite. No sedation or local anesthetic is required, and you can resume normal activities immediately.

You can even drive yourself home or back to work. You may experience some slight temporary bruising at the treatment site. This can be covered with make-up.