Botox

The periorbital region (the area around the eyes) is often times the first area of the face to demonstrate signs of aging. Wrinkles in the area surrounding the eyes, within the forehead, and between the eyebrows may also give the appearance of fatigue or convey certain unwanted emotions. One common misconception is that the only way to eradicate these wrinkles is to perform surgery to remove excess skin from the eyelids or elevate the brows. Although indicated in many situations, this fails to address the wrinkles which occurs to the sides, above, and between the eyes. Several alternatives are available for improving these lines of aging. The good news is that many of these procedures are performed in an office setting with minimal discomfort.

Before surgery

Before

After surgery

After

One such office-based procedure is the injection of Botox into the muscles underlying these periorbital wrinkles. Botox is the trade name for botulinum toxin type A, a protein produced by the bacteria Clostridium Botulinum. The toxin produces temporary muscle paralysis. In large systemic doses this toxin is responsible for the disease botulism. However, when injected in very small amounts this toxin can be used in an extremely precise manner to treat several ailments.

Another misconception is that the wrinkles surrounding the eyes and forehead are entirely the result of excess, aged, or sun damaged skin. Although each of these factors plays a role in the overall appearance of your eyes and periorbital skin, those “crows feet” and forehead “frown lines” are actually the result of overactive muscles beneath facial skin which has lost some of its ability to stretch and return to its original smoothness.

Botox injections into these underlying muscles produces a microparalysis, which prevents these muscles from over contracting, thus, preventing the skin from wrinkling. The wrinkles around the eyes and forehead respond extremely well to Botox injections because of the overwhelming influence the underlying muscles exert on the skin at these locations. Additionally, the facial expressions that are weakened or eliminated by injection into these areas are generally not missed.

The benefits realized from Botox injections generally persist for approximately 3-5 months. At about that time you will notice muscle contractions in previously paralyzed sites. The procedure may be repeated as often as you desire. Unfortunately, the effects are not cumulative and repeat injections will be necessary.