The Age of Botox

Written by Dr. Murray Riggins
July 2008

For the baby boom generation this is the age of BOTOX®. In this age of beauty treatments designed to soften the signs of age, BOTOX® has emerged as one of the safest and best ways to keep time at bay. Over one million people have been treated with BOTOX® safely over the past 20 years and it has often been referred to as the "penicillin of the 21st Century."

BOTOX® is a purified protein that works by blocking overactive nerve impulses that trigger excessive muscle contractions or glandular activity which can lead to wrinkle formation and excessive sweating. It is most effective when injected into the forehead, and the areas between and around the eyes. Results vary, but within a few days those tell- tale age reminders soften and usually stay that way for up to six months. For people who maintain a regular schedule of injections the effects last longer and longer – sometimes up to eight months.

BOTOX® therapy is not without controversy. There have been bad outcomes, allergic reactions and complications. But in the hands of a trained and licensed physician, these outcomes can be minimized if not eliminated. It is injected by a tiny needle into specific locations on the face, and the discomfort is minimal. Most patients compare the sensation to a bug bit and no sedation or anesthetic is required.

While BOTOX® is relatively new to the beauty industry is not new to the medical profession. In 2004 the FDA approved it for use in Hyperhidrosis, a medical term for excessive sweating. This chronic condition affects an estimated 7.8 million people in the United State , and when administered BOTOX® blocks the signals that stimulate the sweat glands to produce sweat.

Botox® Patient 3: Botox to Crow's Feet.

Overall BOTOX® is an excellent therapeutic choice if you are interested in giving your face a more youthful appearance without having to resort to plastic surgery. Treatment costs can vary according to the treatment results you want and the area of the country in which you live. Charges can range from $300 to $1050 depending on the area(s) being treated.

If you are interested in a BOTOX Cosmetic Treatment, please click here to watch our video and receive more information.

Dr. Murray Riggins is a General Practice Aesthetic physician with 25 years of medical experience, who graduated from Meharry Medical College and did his post graduate work at Miami Valley Hospital in Dayton, OH. He is the founder and Medical Director of Dr. Riggins MASC (Medical Aesthetic Skin Care) LLC located at 1205 Fern Street NW, Washington, DC 20012. Please call 202-391-0295 for more information. Click here to email Dr. Riggins