Cosmetic Botulinum Toxin Injection

Christopher Smith, DO

Content Contributor

Evolution of Cosmetic Botulinum Toxin Injection

The use of botulinum toxin on humans was pioneered in the 1980s. It’s use to treat wrinkles, rhytids, is now widespread and it is by far the most commonly performed cosmetic procedure. Botulinum toxin injections are not only used to approve cosmetic appearance but also to treat conditions of muscle spasticity. The toxin injected is taken from bacteria Clostridium Botulinum, the cause of medical condition Botulism, still seen in the developing world.

When processed for medical use, a small amount of botulinum toxin is injected directly into the muscle, blocking the release of neurotransmitters from the nerve endings, and prohibiting the treated muscle from contracting. For application in the treatment of facial aging, this causes relaxation of the desired muscle, keeping it from contracting and causing dynamic wrinkles. Almost any wrinkling of the face can be at least partially treated by botulinum toxin injection. After injection, it may several days to see the maximum effect, and results can last from 3 to 6 months.

Technology Spotlight

BOTOX Injection

BOTOX is derived from the toxin of the Clostridium Botulinum bacteria and results in muscle paralysis at the site of injection. It was initially approved in the United States for injection in 1989. It is the most common cosmetic procedure performed in the United States. In addition to cosmetic applications, it is also approved to treat conditions such as muscle spasticity, overactive bladder, and migraine headache. It is packaged in a vacuum dried vial containing the toxin, and must be mixed with a small amount of saline before injection.

For treatment of wrinkles, a small syringe is used along with a very fine needle. BOTOX is then injected into the muscle underlaying the wrinkles, typically the frontalis (forehead), procerus and corregators (frown lines), and/ or the orbicularis oculi (crows feet). Multiple areas may be treated at the same time. There is minimal pain or bruising with the procedure. Afterwards, full effect will be seen in about 7 days and will last for 3-6 months. Most effect will be seen on dynamic wrinkles, though there is typically improvement in deep, static wrinkles as well.