BOTOX® Cosmetic

BOTOX treatments are unique in that they can be used to remove dynamic wrinkles -- the wrinkles that are produced by facial movement.

During the consultation, you will have the opportunity to talk to your surgeon about the changes that you'd like to make in your appearance. He/she will explain the different options available to you, the procedure itself, and the risks and limitations involved. He/she will also explain the kind of anesthesia required, surgical facility, and costs.

BOTOX treatments are brief and simple. First, the skin is treated with a topical numbing agent, and you may be given a sedative as well. Next, very small amounts of BOTOX are strategically injected in different parts of the face. This is accomplished with thin needles that cause very little pain.

Depending on the number of BOTOX injections needed, the treatment may take 10 to 30 minutes.

BOTOX treatments can be performed in the doctor's office or in a surgical suite. Anesthesia is rarely needed, but sedatives and numbing agents may be used.

There is some discomfort involved with the Botox injections, but the discomfort is slight. The feeling has been likened to an insect bite. After the procedure, there is virtually no pain.

The results produced by BOTOX are generally visible within 3 to 5 days. Although results vary, the results of an individual treatment last for about 4 to 6 months. The procedure may be repeated and, with each new treatment, the results tend to last longer.

You'll probably be able to return to work or home immediately after the procedure. However, care must be taken to keep the head upright and avoid massaging the treated area, so that the BOTOX affects only the desired areas.

Most people are very pleased with the results. For long-term results, the procedure will most likely need to be repeated.

Although BOTOX results vary, the outcome of an individual treatment lasts for about 4 to 6 months. With each new treatment, the results tend to last longer.

In general, the best candidates for BOTOX treatments are those:

• With wrinkles in the face or neck
• Who are knowledgeable about the procedure
• In good physical and psychological health
• Wanting to improve their appearance
• Realistic in their expectations
• Not using marijuana or anabolic steroids
• Not a heavy user of alcohol

The above is only a partial list of the criteria that your surgeon will consider in determining whether or not Botox injections are appropriate for you. Be sure to ask your surgeon if he/she considers you an ideal candidate for this procedure.

This procedure can remove or deter wrinkles by preventing the repeated facial expressions that contribute to their formation. It cannot improve the overall texture of the skin, but procedures such as laser skin resurfacing and dermabrasion can be used to accomplish this. It cannot tighten the facial skin either. Look for face lift and forehead lift for ways to accomplish this.

Mild bruising or swelling may occur at the site of the injection. The treatment may also cause a brief headache. In rare cases, the side effects of Botox can include the eyebrow or upper eyelid to droop, but this condition is temporary and corrects itself without treatment within 2 to 3 weeks.

The national average cost of Botox for 2007 was $501 (Source: American Society of Plastic Surgeons). Regional averages: New England states: $510 Middle Atlantic states: $502 North Central states: $377 South Central states: $375 and Mountain/Pacific states: $470. These fees do not include operating room facility, hospital stay, and other related expenses. You should ask your surgeon if your needs are medically indicated, in which case the costs may be covered by medical insurance.

It is very important that you select a physician adequately trained and experienced in Botox injections. See our Physician Locator feature to find a surgeon in your area, including detailed profile information for many of the listed doctors. Also, read How to Select a Plastic Surgeon for a more detailed discussion on choosing the right doctor.

1. Are the desired results I described realistic?
2. Is there an alternative remedy that I should consider as well?
3. How long will the procedure take?
4. What kind of anesthesia will be used, if any?
5. How much does Botox cost?
6. What is your experience in performing this procedure? (How long has he/she performed this procedure, and how many he/she has performed in the past year?)
7. What percentage of patients have had significant complications? (The physician should disclose this information to you.)
8. Will you repeat or correct procedures if it does not meet agreed upon goals? And if the procedure must be repeated / corrected, will I be charged again? (The physician should provide you with his/her policy on this issue.)
9. May I see "before and after" photos of recent patients? The physician should provide many photos of recent patients.
10. Could I observe the exact procedure I am considering before I decide to have the surgery? (Either on videotape or live.)
11. What should I expect after the procedure in terms of soreness, what to watch for, medication, bathing, and level of activity?
12. Have you ever had your malpractice insurance coverage denied, revoked, suspended?
13. Do you offer patient financing?

• Tell your doctor about any allergies you have (to foods, drugs, environmental elements)
• Tell your doctor about all medications, herbal supplements or natural supplements you are taking (both prescription and non-prescription), including such natural remedies as Echinacea and St. John's Wort.
• Carefully follow any instructions the doctor gives you.

The information on this web site is only intended as an introduction to BOTOX Ć Cosmetic. This information should not be used to determine whether you will have the procedure performed nor as a guarantee of the results. The best method of determining your options is to consult qualified dermatologists who are able to answer specific questions related to your situation.

Did you know that 29% of all Americans have considered having an elective procedure? Of those, 60% would schedule a procedure immediately if financing was available. With iEnhance's patient financing options, money no longer has to be the barrier between you and your new image. By filling out our on-line application you can qualify for a loan in as little as 30 seconds.

• Dr. Pontell - Media, PA

At iEnhance, find information on top plastic surgery procedures such as breast augmentation, liposuction, facelift, tummy tuck, BOTOX ® Cosmetic, eyelid surgery, thermage, rhinoplasty; as well as teeth whitening, porcelain veneers, and other cosmetic dentistry procedures. Locate a plastic surgeon, cosmetic surgeon, cosmetic dentist, or specialist today!