Botox

Botox® and other neuromodulators such as Dysport® and Xeomin® can be injected into the upper face and neck to reduce the activity of muscles of facial expression. This can reduce the appearance of dynamic wrinkles, or wrinkles that appear when the face moves. Common areas to inject are the glabella (between the eyes), forehead, periorbital area (crow’s feet), and platysma (the muscle causing vertical neck bands). In addition to immediate wrinkle improvement, these treatments slow new wrinkle formation by reducing or eliminating certain facial movements. Neuromodulators are temporary and their effect generally wears off by 3 to 4 months. Some patients have expressed concern that once they start treatment, they cannot stop. In fact, Botox®, Dysport®, or Xeomin® injections do not need to be continued indefinitely. Even an occasional injection, such as once a year, will provide some anti-aging benefit and help to prevent new wrinkles from forming and deepening.