BOTOX® Cosmetics is a highly purified toxin derived from the bacteria clostridium botulinum. It works by blocking receptor sites on muscles and preventing acetyl choline, released by nerves, from stimulating muscles to contract. BOTOX® Cosmetic is injected into the skin in very small and safe amounts to selectively block the function of certain facial muscles that are involved in wrinkle formation.

Restylane® is a natural, non-animal cosmetic filler, whereas Botox® is a drug that blocks nerve transmission and relaxes the underlying muscle. Many patients are very happy with the combination therapy of Botox® for the upper facial wrinkles (crow's feet, forehead lines, and frown lines) and Restylane® to fill in the wrinkles/folds of the lower face, as well as lip enhancement.

Although BOTOX® Cosmetic treatment for cosmetic enhancement is relatively new, the substance has been used for nearly two decades to treat neurological and ophthalmologic disorders from squinting and cross eyes to muscle twitching.

BOTOX® Cosmetic Treatments are very simple to perform and usually take less than five minutes per area treated. Using a tiny micro-needle, a minuscule amount of BOTOX® Cosmetic is injected, very precisely, into select locations on the face. Because the needle is so fine and only a small amount of the substance is used, the pain associated with the injections is minimal.

Wrinkles occur when there is tension in the facial muscles due to the nerves releasing too much acetylcholine. When BOTOX® Cosmetic is introduced directly into these facial muscles, it blocks the nerves from releasing this substance. As a result, the muscles relax, thereby reducing wrinkles and diminishing the lines.

You may experience minimal discomfort from the injections. However, a very fine needle is used at TIA, and most patients report only feeling a slight pinch upon insertion.

Any authorized health care professional can administer BOTOX® Cosmetic,however ophthalmologists, plastic surgeons, dermatologists, otolaryngologists, or other cosmetic physicians are generally more experienced.

Your doctor will determine exactly where to administer several tiny injections to achieve the best results. No anesthesia is required, although some doctors may choose to numb the area with a cold pack or anesthetic cream prior to injecting. The entire procedure takes approximately 10 minutes. Discomfort is minimal and brief -- most patients compare the sensation to a bug bite.