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Botox Injections for Forehead Wrinkles

Dr. Gregory Branham treats patients at

Washington University Facial Plastic Center
West County Office
605 Old Ballas Road, Suite 100
St. Louis, MO 63141

Phone:  314-432-7760     Fax: 314-432-5410
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Question: My friends are talking about getting injections of Botox for their forehead wrinkles. Is it safe and how long will it last?

Answer:  Botulinum toxin is a neurotoxin protein produced by the bacterium Clostridium botulinum. There are several forms that are available throughout the world, with two subtypes currently in clinical use. Botulinum toxin A is manufactured as Botox, Dysport and Neuronox. By far, the most widely used form in the U.S. is Botox, which is produced by Allergan, Inc.

BTX-A exerts its influence at the nerve ending as it enters the muscle by blocking the release of the neurotransmitter acetylcholine.  In doing so, it weakens the muscle that creates the wrinkle and thus smoothes the skin. The nerve ending repairs itself over a period of three months which corresponds to a return of full muscle function.

Because of this, retreatment at three months is necessary. Botox is used for both medical and cosmetic purposes and was approved by the FDA for cosmetic use in the glabellar region (the area between the eyebrows) in 2002. While its uses have been expanded beyond the official FDA approved glabellar region, this remains its only FDA approved indication.

It is most commonly used in the forehead, glabella and the crow’s feet area. It is used less frequently to turn up the corners of the mouth and to treat fine lines in the upper lip.

Botox can have a remarkable rejuvenating effect, particularly around the eye. It can be used to lift the eyebrow and smooth the lines around the eye. When surgery is not an option, Botox can be a refreshing alternative.
 
Based on average costs for the treatment, Botox costs less over three months than a daily premium coffee drink. With continued treatment, some patients have been able to extend the interval between treatments for up to six months. However, not all patients experience this effect.

Every patient’s face is unique and the amount of Botox needed depends on how active the muscle is and how much muscle bulk is present. It is important that the dosing should be individualized to achieve the desired effect.

Additionally, the result should permit some muscle function and allow the patient to express emotion while having smooth skin at rest. This will provide a natural appearing rejuvenation without a frozen appearance. To achieve this, it is essential that the neurotoxin is injected by a well-trained injector who is licensed to perform intramuscular injections, preferably an experienced physician.
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Copyright 2013 Washington University School of Medicine