BOTOX is the most popular non-invasive cosmetic surgery procedure, according to the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery (ASAPS). They have not issued any figures yet for 2008, but in 2007 there were 2,775,176 BOTOX procedures done.

Another injectable is currently in FDA testing and is expected to be approved for cosmetic use shortly. Its name is Reloxin and it is based on the same substance that BOTOX is based on: the botulinum toxin, produced by the bacteria which cause food poisoning. Although that may sound like a questionable recommendation for a cosmetic injectable, BOTOX is very effective, quick, and painless and smoothes out wrinkles for three to four months before a repeat treatment is needed.

How BOTOX and Reloxin Work

Both BOTOX and Reloxin work by temporarily paralyzing the muscle where they are injected. BOTOX injections are usually made around the forehead to smooth out frown lines and horizontal wrinkles, or around the mouth to smooth lip lines. By preventing the muscles from contracting, they prevent the wrinkles from forming and the skin relaxes.

BOTOX has had medical use for about 30 years, being very effective in treating muscle spasms which may happen after a burn injury, or involuntary muscle movements as happen with cerebral palsy, for example.

Reloxin has been used for several years in European countries with the brand name of Dysport. It is reputed to start acting more quickly than BOTOX — in one or two days, whereas BOTOX takes three or four days to show effects. The clinical trials are suggesting that it may give longer-lasting results also — five or six months as opposed to the three months for BOTOX.

Allergan, the manufacturer of BOTOX, is reminding physicians that a new drug will not have the established safety record of BOTOX.

At the Cosmetic Surgical Center, we offer BOTOX as well as several effective dermal fillers for facial rejuvenation. If you would like to know more about BOTOX or dermal fillers and how they might help you, please contact our cosmetic surgery office today for a personal consultation.