Botulinum Toxin Type A—or BOTOX®—is used to relax the muscles in the face. The result is fewer facial frown wrinkles. It works by blocking the release of the neurotransmitter acetylcholine. The FDA-approved injectable has been used since 2002 for aesthetic purposes.
For those who may still have questions, the answers are straightforward. Yes, it is the same as the botulinum that causes food poisoning. The difference is that it has been purified and is used in a sterile setting. You can’t get botulism from an injection.
Is It Worth the Cost?
Since 2002, approximately 10.9 million people have had onabotulinum toxinA injections. Most are extremely satisfied. Some believe the cost is a bit high, but it’s not as exorbitant as cosmetic surgery.
On average, an aesthetic injector will charge a patient an average of about $300 for each small area treated. Yes, it adds up. Still, they are affordable when viewed on a per-treatment basis, and they’re perfect for those who don’t want to go under the knife.
The Longevity of the Results
According to a recent report, the impact on the nerve terminals is irreversible. This means new nerve terminals must grow in order for the muscles to recover their functionality. Age and genetics both play roles in the longevity of the treatment.
For example, since older people don’t recover as quickly overall, it takes even longer for their new nerve terminals to grow and for their muscles to recover. The longer a patient has undergone treatments, the longer each one lasts. However, if a higher dosage is used in each treatment, it only slightly extends the lasting effect.
Treatment is designed between three and four months, and on average this holds true. Consistent use of this injectable can extend the lasting effect to six months at most. Older people who have had treatments last nearly that long as well.
Is there anything patients or doctors can do to make it last longer than the expected three to four months? Sadly, no.
Michael Sullivan, M.D. practices cosmetic surgery in Columbus, OH. When asked this specific question, he had the following to say:
“I am not aware of any activities you can do or avoid to prolong the effects of BOTOX Cosmetic. Most patients will have the benefits of BOTOX for three-four months,” he stated.
Patients who can afford the injections should give a treatment or two a try. The benefit far outweighs any drawbacks, and it’s far less expensive or dangerous than cosmetic surgery—even if it doesn’t last nearly as long.
Get BOTOX in Long Island and NYC
Contact James Christian Cosmetics for all your aesthetic needs. James Christian Sardelli, RPA-C has many years of experience providing clients with the best products and services to help them improve their beauty. No-cost consultations are available by calling 844-iBOTOX-NOW during normal business hours, or text/call 917-860-3113 during nights and weekends.
Find his cosmetic services in Suffolk County, Long Island, and beyond including East Setauket, Islip, West Hampton Beach, Commack, Manhattan, Brooklyn, Rockville Centre, Farmington, Babylon Village, and Huntington Bay, New York.
*BOTOX® Cosmetic is a registered trademark of Allergan, Inc.
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*Information in this article is not medical advice and may not be factually accurate. It is intended for entertainment purposes only. Consult with a physician before attempting any tips in this blog post and to get the most up to date factual data about any procedure or treatment.