Botulinum Toxin Type A, "Botox"
What Is Botulinum Toxin Type A
Often referred to colloquially as "Botox", the cosmetic form of botulinum toxin is an injectable that temporarily reduces the appearance of facial fine lines and wrinkles. Injections of botulinum toxin block the nerve signals to the muscle injected, limiting its movements and reduce unwanted facial fine lines. The most commonly treated areas are frown lines, forehead creases, crow's feet near the eyes.
Pricing
Botulinum toxin injections are typically charged by "unit". For reference, the FDA approved unit for glabellar lines (aka frown lines) is 50 units for Dysport®, 40 units for Daxi, 20 units for BOTOX®, Jeuveau®, and Xeomin®. Additional units are needed for additional treatment sites such as the forehead. The actual units used will vary by the extent of facial lines and desired treatment aggressiveness. As a reference point, a premium clinic in Chicago is charging $14 for BOTOX and $6 for Dysport per unit.
In addition to the total products used, the cost of botulinum toxins also varies based on provider experience, qualifications, and geographic location.
Recovery & Downtime
There is no down time and you may resume normal activities immediately. Alcohol consumption and heavy exercise are generally discouraged. Additionally, avoid rubbing the treated areas or laying flat because it can cause the botulinum toxin to migrate to another area of your face. If this happens, you could have temporary facial weakness or drooping.
Best For
Botulinum toxin type A is considered one of the quickest and safest remedies to reduce appearance of facial fine lines and wrinkles. Discuss with your provider your general health status, pre-existing health conditions, and current lifestyle choices for likely outcomes and any risks or potential complications.
Potential Side Effects
Although generally safe, botulinum toxin side effects and complications can include: bruising and pain at the injection site, flu-like symptoms, headache, nausea, redness, temporary facial weakness or drooping. It is very unlikely that the toxin might spread beyond the treatment area, causing botulism-like signs and symptoms such as breathing problems, trouble swallowing, muscle weakness and slurred speech.
Brands
BOTOX Cosmetic®, Dysport®, Xeomin®, Jeuveau®, DAXXIFY™.