Botox has been used medically for 20 years. As a cosmetic procedure it is used to smooth wrinkles caused by the contraction of facial muscles, notably horizontal lines on the forehead, lines between the eyebrows, crows feet, and the wrinkles often found on the upper part of the nose. It can also sometimes be used around the mouth, to ease out lines over the upper lip, or to boost the folds on the sides of the mouth. It can be used on the neck to relax the muscles that go from chin to clavicle and prevent them from becoming ropey. On crow’s feet, Botox helps prevent sagging of the lateral part of the eyebrow, which, in turn, prevents the lower eyelid from crinkling. It may even be used to lift the eyebrows.
Contrary to other filling agents, Botox is not injected directly into the wrinkle but rather, into the muscle that causes the wrinkle. By relaxing the muscles, it helps prevent the wrinkles from becoming deeper.
Treatments take only a few minutes,. The effect is visible 7 to 14 days later and usually lasts 3 to 4 months.. So factor in regular follow-up treatments.
Any kind of treatment carries a certain amount of risk. Bruising can appear in the days following treatment. Some cases of drooping eyelids have been reported after forehead and eyebrow treatments. Fortunately, the effect is not permanent.
