Questions about BOTOX®

San Francisco, Bay Area and San Jose, California

What is BOTOX®?

BOTOX® is actually a diluted form of botulism, but in a more pure form. For individuals with noticeable crow’s feet (wrinkles at the edge of the eyes) or frown lines between the eyebrows and forehead, BOTOX® Cosmetic can offer a younger look when this prescription medicine is injected into the facial muscles. This is a temporary solution for adults who are age 65 or younger.

How does BOTOX® work?

Basically BOTOX® is a muscle relaxer. Whenever you laugh, smile or frown, your facial muscles contract. Wrinkles form when the underlying muscle contracts; over years, these lines become wrinkles and then later, permanent wrinkles. When BOTOX® is injected into the muscle, the muscle can no longer retract and starts relaxing. Consequently, the wrinkled area begins to smooth out. The injected medication wears off after 3 to 6 months and the muscle once again starts receiving signals to contract; another round of BOTOX® will be necessary at that point to reduce the aged appearance.

Who should administer BOTOX®?

Several different types of physicians administer BOTOX® treatments: ophthalmologists, dermatologists and plastic surgeons are the most common. Having a doctor who is intimately familiar with the eyelid, brow and facial regions is imperative for sensitive areas around your vision. Protecting your vision and aesthetic appeal by choosing a cosmetic surgeon like Dr. Craig Bindi is important for your vision protection.

Are there any BOTOX® side effects?

Two side effects can occur with BOTOX® injections – one that is fairly common and another that is only rarely experienced. A mild localized swelling is expected in the injected area and in some instances, bruising may occur at the injection site.

Am I a good candidate for BOTOX®?

BOTOX® is safe for most individuals, but those with muscular disorders like ALS, myasthenia gravis and Eaton-Lambert syndrome should not consider the treatment. Women who are pregnant, nursing or those with an allergy to any of the BOTOX® ingredients are not good candidates.

What do BOTOX® injections cost?

Compared to a facelift and other cosmetic surgery procedures, BOTOX® is quite affordable and is the reason that individuals choose the procedure over a having facial surgery. The rate for BOTOX® injections varies slightly from doctor to doctor and region to region, but you can typically expect to pay a couple hundred dollars for the treatment.
If you, or someone you know, is considering a temporary solution to a problem with wrinkles and frown lines, please schedule an appointment with the eye surgeons at Laser Eye Center of Silicon Valley who have been providing the highest quality eye care since 1996. Our surgeons can advise you if BOTOX® is right for you.

1.800.725.0740