BOTOX® Cosmetic in Cleveland, OH

Tried and True Cosmetic Procedure

First tested in 1978 to treat spasms of the eyelid (blepharospasm), botulinum toxin type A received approval from the FDA in 1989, and its use soon began expanding into a wider medical arena that now includes treatment for chronic migraines, neck spasms (cervical dystonia), overactive bladder, excessive sweating (hyperhidrosis), and lazy eye.

In 2002, the FDA approved the use of the neuromuscular toxin, botulinum toxin type A, as BOTOX® to temporarily diminish frown lines and asked that the product be marketed under the brand name BOTOX® Cosmetic to avoid confusion with its therapeutic use.

In 2022, BOTOX® Cosmetic reached its 20th anniversary, and today, the demand for BOTOX® Cosmetic has never been higher.

Is BOTOX® Cosmetic Right for Me?

Unwanted wrinkles and fine lines lead many men and women to consider BOTOX® Cosmetic. Individuals who are interested in BOTOX® Cosmetic are dissatisfied with the appearance of fine and deep lines in their face, such as wrinkles that form around the eyes, across the forehead, and between the eyebrows.

To distinguish further, BOTOX® Cosmetic treats dynamic wrinkles and lines (those caused by muscle movement) rather than static wrinkles and lines, which are caused by the sun, time, and gravity.

Women and men interested in BOTOX® Cosmetic should be in good general health and have realistic expectations.

How Does BOTOX® Cosmetic Work?

BOTOX® Cosmetic temporarily stops and reduces the muscles that can cause frown lines, crow’s feet, and forehead lines. It is derived from a safe, diluted form of botulinum toxin type A. This neurotoxin is injected under the skin to block the transmission of neural signals to freeze the muscles that cause dynamic wrinkles and lines, which are created from excessive movement.

BOTOX® Cosmetic may not be as effective for a patient if they have deep wrinkles and folds caused by age, environment, or gravity. Dr. Goldschmidt recommends scheduling a consultation at our office in Independence, Ohio, to discuss whether BOTOX® Cosmetic or another treatment would best address your concerns.

What Can I Expect From My BOTOX® Cosmetic Injection?

During this treatment, your provider injects a small amount of the toxin directly into the targeted area to relax the facial muscles. When the muscles are relaxed, wrinkles are smoothed out, and additional wrinkles are unable to form.

BOTOX® Cosmetic is injected to temporarily reduce muscle activity. You will begin to notice a visible smoothing of the lines between your brows, crow’s feet, forehead lines, or any lines in your designated treatment areas.

How Long Is Recovery After BOTOX® Cosmetic Injections?

BOTOX® Cosmetic is not a surgical or invasive procedure. There is no downtime or recovery period associated with these injections. You will be able to resume all normal activities right away. You may experience some temporary bruising, swelling, and numbness at the injection site, but these should dissipate quickly.

How Long Will My BOTOX® Cosmetic Results Last?

BOTOX® Cosmetic will start to work its magic 24 to 48 hours after the initial injection. Most patients enjoy their wrinkle-free results after one week, but it may take up to one month for full effect. BOTOX® Cosmetic treatments are usually scheduled every three to four months, but each patient metabolizes the product differently, and some may go even further between their treatments.

In some cases, repeated use of BOTOX® Cosmetic can lead to a tolerance build-up; in other cases, the muscles associated with the dynamic wrinkles atrophy, causing the results to last longer.

Combining BOTOX® Cosmetic With Other Treatments

While BOTOX® Cosmetic was designed to treat dynamic lines, injectable dermal fillers can address the wrinkles that form from time, gravity, and sun exposure. Dermal fillers add and restore volume to the face, which can help patients who have deeper wrinkles and folds that BOTOX® Cosmetic cannot treat.

If you have skin any scarring, discoloration, tone, or overall complexion issues, the following treatments are available and can be added to your personal treatment plan:

• Advanced acne treatment
• Dermaplaning treatment
• Skin resurfacing treatment
• Salt facial treatment

BOTOX® Cosmetic FAQ

Are There Risks With BOTOX® Cosmetic?

Complications with BOTOX® Cosmetic are rare, and when they occur, are typically temporary. These complications can include minor swelling and bruising in the injection area, mild numbness or tingling in the injection site, allergic reaction, headache, and nausea.

The Cosmetic Surgery Center is overseen by Matt Goldschmidt MD, FACS, an experienced cosmetic surgeon who is board certified by two surgical boards, including the American Board of Cosmetic Surgery and the Board of Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery.

What are the side effects of BOTOX® Cosmetic?

BOTOX® Cosmetic is generally safe to use. However, some patients may experience mild side effects like injection site swelling or bruising, tingling or numbness, headache, or nausea. These side effects are temporary and should subside in a day or two.

Allergic reaction to BOTOX® Cosmetic is rare. Dr. Goldschmidt is an experienced cosmetic surgeon who understands the anatomy of the facial muscles and utilizes his expert skill to minimize side effects.

Will my face look unnatural after BOTOX® Cosmetic?

When you get BOTOX® Cosmetic injected properly by an experienced licensed healthcare provider, it will help refresh your appearance without looking too “frozen.” A responsible and good injector will use a suitable amount of BOTOX® Cosmetic in the correct areas of concern and adjust as needed. At your consultation, Dr. Goldschmidt will discuss your aesthetic goals and help you decide on a treatment plan to help you achieve them.

Can BOTOX® be used for medical conditions?

BOTOX® is FDA-approved for many medical conditions. Patients may find relief for their symptoms from chronic migraines, neck spasms, overactive bladder, excessive sweating, TMJ, lazy eye, and spasticity. If you have any of these conditions, please speak with your physician to see if BOTOX® may be an option for you.

At what age should I start getting BOTOX® Cosmetic?

BOTOX® Cosmetic is FDA-approved for use in patients over the age of 18. However, there isn’t an exact age when you should start. Each patient is different and will develop fine lines and wrinkles at different rates due to genetic, environmental, or lifestyle factors.

Is BOTOX® addictive?

BOTOX®, the substance itself, is not physically addictive. However, patients may prefer their appearance after BOTOX® Cosmetic and want to come in for more and more. It is important to follow the recommendations of your injector regarding the amount of BOTOX® Cosmetic used, the duration between your appointments, and the areas in need of treatment to establish a healthy relationship with BOTOX® Cosmetic.