Medical doctors have been using Botox for years to successfully treat wrinkles and facial creases. Botox blocks signals from the nerves to the muscles. The injected muscle can't contract. That makes the wrinkles relax and soften.Botox is most often used on forehead lines, crow's feet (lines around the eye), and frown lines.

Wrinkles caused by sun damage and gravity will not respond to Botox.

Getting Botox takes only a few minutes and doesn't require anesthesia. Botox is injected with a fine needle into specific muscles with only minor discomfort. It generally takes three to seven days to take full effect, and it is best to avoid alcohol starting at least one week before the procedure. You should also stop taking aspirin and anti-inflammatory medications two weeks before treatment to reduce bruising.

 

The effects from Botox will last four to six months. As muscle action gradually returns, the lines and wrinkles begin to reappear and need to be treated again. The lines and wrinkles often appear less severe with time because the muscles are being trained to relax.

 

Side Effects

Temporary bruising is the most common side effect of Botox. Headaches, which end in 24 to 48 hours, can happen, but this is rare. A small percentage of patients may develop eyelid drooping. This usually ends within three weeks. Drooping usually happens when the Botox moves around, so don't rub the treated area for 12 hours after injection or lie down for three to four hours.