Botulinum is an FDA-approved injectable muscle-relaxing agent widely used to reduce deep dynamic wrinkles. It was first developed in the 1940's to treat eye muscle disorders. A few decades later it found its use for cosmetic purposes.

Many people associate cosmetic injections with a "frozen" look due it its overuse in Hollywood, but a majority of people who get cosmetic injections have completely natural looking results. In fact, you may be surprised at just how common it is!

How does it work?

Repetitive facial movements, such as smiling, squinting, and frowning, cause facial wrinkles to deepen over time. Botulinum injections work by blocking the signal between the nerve and the muscle. This not only reduces the appearance of deep lines but has also been known to prevent future wrinkles from forming with regular treatments.

How is it administered?

Botulinum only takes a few minutes to inject. After determining which areas to treat, the injection sites are cleansed and numbed with a combination of numbing cream and ice. The botulinum is then injected using a very small needle.

What areas can it treat?

Botulinum is most commonly used to soften dynamic lines in the upper face, such as forehead lines, bunny lines, the 11's (frown lines between the eyes), and crows feet as well as improve lip lines and chin dimpling.

How long does it take to see results?

Results are noticeable within a week. On average, most patients see the effects in 3-4 days, though some have noticed it within 24 hours after the injection.

How long do the effects last?

The results last approximately 3 to 4 months. Some patients see results last up to 6 months.

What are the benefits?

Botulinum injections not only treat existing wrinkles but has been shown to delay the formation of new ones with regular treatments. It also can be beneficial for those who suffer from tension headaches.

What are the side effects?

Temporary redness and/or swelling at the injection site is common but resolves quickly. As with any injection, bruising is also a possibility.

Is it safe?

In over 20 years we have not seen any long-term side effects. The risk of cosmetically disturbing results like a “frozen” face, droopy eyelid, or unnatural look is minimized with a skilled injector who has extensive knowledge of facial anatomy. Most people have little-to-no downtime after their injections.

Interested in botulinum injections in the Greater Milwaukee area?

View our before and after photos in our photo gallery. To schedule your injections at Visage Facial Plastic Surgery, call (262) 701-7040.