How BOTOX Cosmetic Works

    MCLEAN, VA, June 02, 2012 /24-7PressRelease/ -- BOTOX Cosmetic injections are the most popular nonsurgical cosmetic procedure performed in the United States. Despite its popularity, there is still much myth and misinformation about what BOTOX Cosmetic is, what it does, and how, exactly, it works.

What is BOTOX Cosmetic?

BOTOX Cosmetic is a solution containing a strain of bacteria called Clostridium botulinum. This bacterial strain contains 7 different serological types. BOTOX Cosmetic is derived from Type A.

BOTOX Cosmetic is not botulism. While botulism comes from Clostridium botulinum, it is not the same serological type as that used in BOTOX Cosmetic. The FDA approved the use of Type A in 1989 and it has been used successfully with very few risks and minimal side effects since that time.

What does BOTOX Cosmetic Do?

BOTOX Cosmetic eliminates wrinkles by temporarily paralyzing the underlying muscle. The word "paralyzing" may seem frightening, but it is no cause for alarm. Though selective paralysis of these muscles will eliminate fine lines and deep wrinkles from various areas of the face, it will not inhibit facial expressions or proper movement. The most common side effect of BOTOX Cosmetic is slight redness around the injection site. This remains the biggest risk factor associated with the use of BOTOX Cosmetic.

How does BOTOX Cosmetic Work?

BOTOX Cosmetic injections perform an action known as selective muscle denervation. This is a fancy way of saying that BOTOX Cosmetic injections block acetylcholine receptors at the junction where your muscles and nerve ending meet. By blocking acetylcholine receptors, released acetylcholine cannot bind to your muscles, forcing them to contract. This results in smooth skin over a relaxed muscle. BOTOX Cosmetic is safe to use because it relaxes the muscles without damaging the nerve. Simply interrupting nerve signals that cause muscle contraction is sufficient to provide noticeably smoother, more youthful looking skin.

BOTOX Cosmetic does not damage the nerves. This makes it a temporary solution. Over a period of 3 to 4 months, the acetylcholine receptors will begin to repair themselves, resulting in a reappearance of wrinkles. To maintain a soft, youthful appearance, you will need to receive new injections 2 to 3 times a year. If you decide to discontinue BOTOX Cosmetic injections, your skin will simply return to its natural state. If you require a longer lasting solution, your cosmetic surgeon can discuss options such as facial fillers or surgical procedures during your initial consultation.

If you live in or around Northern Virginia and are interested in learning more about BOTOX Cosmetic, please visit the website of Nova Surgicare for additional information at www.novasurgicare.com.

# # #