Botox Injections

Our office is offering free Botox injections on Wednesdays in our Northern Virginia offices, all the way through June! If youve been curious about the procedure or have considered getting Botox in the past, check out the post below for more information on the subject! Botox is the trade name for a cosmetic substance that includes the neurotoxin botulinum. In large and uncontrolled amounts, this toxin can cause botulism, a form of food poisoning. However, in small and controlled doses used by cosmetic surgeons, it can soften the appearance of moderate to severe wrinkles, and prevent them from worsening. Along with being used for cosmetic issues, Botox can be used to treat medical conditions like uncontrolled blinking, excessive body sweat, migraine headaches, writers cramp, dystonia, and lazy eye. It can also be used to treat bladder overactivity and some prostate problems.   The way Botox works is by blocking nerve impulses to the affected muscles. The muscles that are no longer receiving the impulses will stop contracting, causing the wrinkles above to relax and eventually soften. And since the muscles are no longer contracting, the skin above will not develop deeper and more pronounced wrinkling (and dont worry- correctly administered Botox will still allow you to make normal facial expressions).   Botox is an excellent alternative to a traditional facelift for patients in their 30s. Patients around that age have usually just started developing signs of aging around the eyes (usually due to sun exposure and squinting), but not around the cheek or mid-face area. The injections will treat the wrinkles that are presenting, without the stress and recovery of a full surgery.   Patients can also combine the treatment with other treatments, like laser facials, chemical peels, dermal fillers, and various plastic surgeries. Botox itself consists of a block of injections done with a very fine needle. The injections can usually be done in a few minutes, and dont require you to get anesthesia (though you can speak to your surgeon about a topical option, if desired).   Please call our office to schedule your free Botox consultation in Northern Virginia at (703) 574-2588. Follow us on Twitter and Facebook!

Frequently Asked Questions

What is BOTOX and how does it reduce wrinkles?

BOTOX is a diluted, controlled injectable form of botulinum toxin approved for cosmetic use. It works by blocking the nerve signals that cause targeted facial muscles to contract. With those muscles relaxed, the overlying skin stops creasing, existing wrinkles soften, and new wrinkle formation is prevented as long as treatments are maintained.

What cosmetic areas can BOTOX treat?

BOTOX is most commonly used to soften wrinkles on the forehead, the vertical frown lines between the eyebrows (called the 11s), and crow's feet around the eyes. It is not effective for wrinkles caused by gravity or sun damage, which involve the skin itself rather than muscle movement.

Does BOTOX have any medical uses beyond cosmetics?

Yes. BOTOX has several FDA-approved medical applications including treating excessive sweating (hyperhidrosis), chronic migraine headaches, writer's cramp, cervical dystonia, uncontrolled blinking, and bladder overactivity. In some cases, it can also be used to treat prostate-related symptoms.

How long do BOTOX results last?

Results from a BOTOX treatment typically last three to four months. Over time, the muscle gradually reactivates as the body metabolizes the toxin, and the wrinkles begin to return to their pre-treatment appearance. Scheduling regular maintenance treatments keeps results consistent and can help the muscle remain relaxed for longer with repeated use.

Is BOTOX safe for long-term use?

Yes. BOTOX has been used safely for cosmetic and medical purposes for decades and has an excellent long-term safety record. Repeated treatments do not cause harm when administered by a trained, board-certified provider. Over time, patients often find they need slightly less product to achieve the same effect as the muscle gradually weakens from repeated relaxation.