| Dr. James Carraway is a plastic surgeon certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery. Here the Doctor has answered some of the common questions bizymoms visitors have about Botox.
Q. What is Botox?
A. Botox is the toxin of Clostridium botulinum which paralyzes muscles and reduces or eliminates wrinkles caused by these muscles. If a large dose is given to a human, it can paralyze the body and cause the bleeding muscles to stop working. In the doses used, it is only in a small local area and has no potential for a dangerous situation overall.
Q. Who is the ideal candidate for BOTOX?
A. The ideal candidate for Botox is one who has hyperactive muscles in any area of the body. For example, wrinkles around the eyes and the middle of the forehead are excellent areas for Botox to be used. In children with cerebral palsy, some of the leg muscles which are in spasm can be treated with Botox to improve walking.
Q. How does BOTOX work?
A. Botox paralyzes the motor endplate where the nerve attaches to the muscle. This prevents the muscle from working for about 3 months.
Q. What is the recovery period for BOTOX?
A. The recovery period for Botox is about 3 months, but it may last up to 4. Recovery period after injection is nil, as one may put on a little makeup and go about their usual activities.
Q. How long do the results of BOTOX last?
A. Botox lasts 3-4 months.
Q. How much does BOTOX cost?
A. Botox’s cost depends on how many units are used or how much actual material is consumed during the procedure. For example, Botox of the eyes and forehead is about $300-$400, but may be less or more depending upon the doctor’s office.
Q. Who should perform a BOTOX procedure?
A. Botox should be performed by qualified personnel. This may be nurses, skin care technicians, or physicians. The first two categories would be under the supervision of a physician.
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