BOTOX® in Scottsdale and Phoenix, AZ
BOTOX® is the trade name given to Botulinum Toxin-A, a protein, and neurotoxin produced by the bacterium Clostridium botulinum. Although botulinum toxin is a lethal, naturally occurring substance, it can be used as an effective and powerful medication. In cosmetic applications, a small dose of botulinum toxin, can be used to prevent the development of wrinkles by paralyzing facial muscles. In addition to its cosmetic applications, it is currently used in the treatment of spasms and dystonias, by weakening involved muscles. Qualifications for injectors vary by county, state, and country. BOTOX® cosmetic providers include dermatologists, aesthetic spa physicians, dentists, nurse practitioners, nurses and physician assistants, and in Dr. Devito’s case: board certified plastic surgeons.
How does BOTOX® Work?
Researchers discovered in the 1950s that injecting overactive muscles with very small amounts of botulinum toxin type-A would result in decreased muscle activity and effectively weaken the muscle for a period of three to four months. In cosmetic applications, a BOTOX® injection, consisting of a small dose of botulinum toxin, can be used to prevent the development of wrinkles by paralyzing facial muscles. Usually, the procedure takes 10 to 15 minutes and the wrinkle-preventing effects normally last three to four months but can last up to six months.
Is BOTOX® Right For Me?
Since 2007, neuromodulators have become the most commonly performed cosmetic procedure, with 4.6 million procedures in the United States, according to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons. The global botox market is forecast to reach $2.9 billion by 2018, of which the US is expected to contribute nearly $2 billion. BOTOX® is used for fine to deep wrinkles around the eyes, also known as Crows Feet. A lot of people use it to smooth over wrinkles that are in the forehead and in between the nose. If you are a healthy individual in the Phoenix area that is interested in BOTOX® injections, schedule an initial consultation with Dr. DeVito at her Scottsdale facility to see if the procedure can help you get your desired results.
Does BOTOX® have any Side Effects?
BOTOX® has proven to be very clinically safe when administered by a qualified physician or assistant. In cosmetic use, side effects, which are generally minor and temporary, are rare if performed by an experienced board-certified plastic surgeon such as Dr. DeVito. Bruising can be prevented by the clinician applying pressure to the injection site, but may still occur, and last around three to seven days. At the extremely low doses used medicinally, botulinum toxin has a very low degree of human and animal toxicity. Anyone who is pregnant has egg allergies or a neuromuscular disorder is advised by the FDA to avoid BOTOX®.
