Botulinum rejuvenation is a procedure that can erase years from the face or neck by reducing the appearance of lines and wrinkles. Because the injections are quick, side effects minimal, and the procedure does not generally require downtime, this is one of the most popular cosmetic procedures in the United States.

Also Called

• Botox®

• Botulinum toxin

• Botulinum toxin type A

• Botulinum toxin type B

Signs of Aging Treated

• Crow’s feet

• Forehead lines

• Frown lines between the eyebrows

• Neck bands and lines

In some cases, a dermatologist may inject botulinum toxin into another area to help diminish signs of aging. Botulinum rejuvenation also may be used along with another cosmetic procedure to give you a more youthful appearance.

What to Expect During the Procedure
Small amounts of botulinum toxin are injected into the targeted muscles. The botulinum toxin blocks nerve signals to these muscles, which temporarily relaxes the muscle and diminishes the unwanted lines. Each injection takes just a few seconds.

What to Expect After the Procedure
This procedure has virtually no downtime. Makeup may be applied after the treatment, but avoid massaging or pressing on the area for several hours.

When See Results from Botulinum Rejuvenation
Results are not immediate. You can expect to see the effects about 3 to 7 days after treatment.

Effectiveness
This procedure effectively diminishes the appearance of lines on the face such as crow’s feet as well as bands and lines on the neck.

Possible Side Effects
Botulinum rejuvenation is well-tolerated. Some patients may have a temporary headache after injections in the forehead area, especially after the first treatment. Soreness or mild bruising, while uncommon, may occur around the injection site. In rare cases, a patient may develop weakness in nearby muscles, leading to a temporarily droopy brow or eyelid. All of these effects are mild, reversible, and fade with time.

How Long Results Lasts
Generally, the results last about 3 to 4 months. As the effects gradually fade, the muscle action returns and lines are seen. Treatment can usually be repeated as the effects wear off.

What to Avoid Before Treatment
The following can increase your tendency to bruise:

• Alcohol (not be consumed for 48 hours before treatment)

• Aspirin and products that contain aspirin (1 to 2 weeks before treatment)

• NSAIDs (Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs) These medications reduce pain, fever, and inflammation. If you are taking a NSAID, do not stop taking it without consulting with your doctor. But before receiving an injection of botulinum toxin, be sure to tell your dermatologist if you are taking a NSAID.

Other Key Facts You Should Know

• During your initial consultation with a dermatologist, be sure to mention all of the medications, vitamins, and herbal remedies that you are taking.

• While botulinum toxin causes botulism food poisoning, you cannot get food poisoning from these injections.

All content solely developed by the American Academy of Dermatology