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Forms and Instructions
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What is BOTOX?
Botulinum toxin (BOTOX) is a protein that inactivates muscle contraction by blocking the nerve impulse to the muscle. It was first used in humans to treat problems with the spasms of the eyelid in the 1980’s. BOTOX is FDA-approved for the treatment of several muscle spasm disorders, and recently became FDA-approved for the treatment of dynamic wrinkles between the eyebrows. It is not FDA-approved for dynamic wrinkles in the other areas of the face, but experience and time have shown that is safe and effective.
How is BOTOX administered?
After application of a numbing cream, BOTOX is injected into the muscle with a very small needle. The procedure feels similar to a blood draw. The effects of BOTOX are not immediate and they are temporary. Patients usually experience some benefit of BOTOX within 3-7 days of the injection, with the peak effect occurring up to one month later.
How long does the BOTOX effect last?
The benefits from BOTOX will vary from patient to patient. The average length of benefit is three to four months. Some patients will return to the pre-injection status sooner while others will realize benefits longer. Repeated injections may result in longer effects due to atrophy of the muscle.
Are there any known side effects?
There are no known long term side effects from BOTOX injections. Side effects are generally transitory and well tolerated. Possible side effects include bleeding, swelling, bruising, infection, and headache. Eyelid and eyebrow droop are uncommon side effects.
Who should not get BOTOX?
Patients with an allergy to the drug should not get BOTOX. Safety for use during pregnancy or lactation has not been established. Additionally, use in individuals with neuromuscular diseases or bleeding disorders (including therapeutic anticoagulation) is contraindicated.
Are there any limitations after the BOTOX treatment?
Yes. For 24 hours after the treatment, do not exercise or rub the treated areas to prevent spread of BOTOX to the upper eyelids. Gently wash your face during the first 24 hours. I DO recommend contracting the treated muscles (e.g. frowning, smiling, raising your eyebrows) to work the BOTOX into the muscle.
Are there other treatments available for my problem?
Other surgical options may be available for facial rejuvenation and the treatment of facial wrinkles. Please be aware that BOTOX only treats the part of the wrinkle that is caused by muscle contraction. If you have a permanent crease embedded in the skin, this will need to be treated with additional methods such as Collagen injections or laser resurfacing. Please ask Dr. TerKonda for details regarding specific areas of concern.
Who do I call if I have questions?
Routine BOTOX clinics are held every Wednesday of the month. If you are unable to make one of these days, the receptionists will do their best to accommodate your schedule. Scheduling questions should be directed to the Longmont Clinic at 720-494-3120. Medical questions should be directed to Dr. TerKonda or his nurse.
The Longmont Clinic advantage.
The advantage of having your treatments performed at the Longmont Clinic is that Dr. TerKonda, not a nurse, will perform all evaluations and injections. Dr. TerKonda will individualize the treatment for you to give you the best result possible. FREE touchups are included in the fee up to one month after the treatment.
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