BOTOX®

BOTOX® Cosmetic, or botulinum toxin type A, is a protein commonly used to non-surgically reduce or eliminate the appearance of facial wrinkles. It is injected under the skin into areas surrounding the eyes, forehead and mouth to smooth crow's feet, frown and worry lines, and lines on the neck. The injections work by blocking nerve impulses, thus weakening muscles to relax wrinkles and give the skin a rejuvenated look. BOTOX® Cosmetic may also be useful for migraine headaches, excessive sweating, and eye and neck muscle spasms. The procedure is quick and usually performed in an examination room.

Collagen

Collagen is a naturally occurring protein found in the second layer of skin (the dermis) which “plumps up” the skin, joints, bones and ligaments. Injections counteract the effects of gravity, sun exposure and years of facial muscle movement (smiling, chewing and squinting, which produce lines and creases) by filling out sunken areas and smoothing lines for a temporarily rejuvenated look. Results may begin to fade in a few months or may last indefinitely, depending on the patient’s age, genetic backgroun, skin quality, lifestyle and body site. Because of this, and because injections cannot improve severe wrinkles or deep folds, the procedure is often combined with facial resurfacing or plastic surgery (i.e. browlift or facelift) for more a satisfying and longer-lasting outcome.

 

Restylane

Recently FDA approved for use in the United States, Restylane is an injectable material like Collagen. Used in Europe and Canada for nearly a decade, it appears that it is both longer lasting than other materials and causes less hypersensitivity reactions. Restylane, a naturally occurring biodegradable polysaccharide, is a hyaluronic acid produced by fermentation and metabolized by the body. Restylane is used to smoothen skin in the lower face, particularly around the mouth, cheeks and lips. Restylane requires no prior skin testing and lasts between 6-12 months.