Botox is the most popular cosmetic treatment procedure in the entire state. The drug is inexpensive, requires little physical investment, isn't permanent and is relatively subtle - making it extremely popular, especially among individuals who have traditionally shunned plastic surgery.

For more information on Botox, and the treatment process, read on.

What the Drug Actually Does

Essentially, your muscles need to make a chemical called acetylcholine to contract and make facial expressions. So, every time you frown, furrow your brow or purse your lips, your muscles are using acetylcholine to create that wrinkle-causing facial appearance.

It stops your muscles from producing and releasing acetylcholine, essentially paralyzing the treated area, preventing the contractions that deepen the appearance of existing wrinkles and preventing the formation of new ones.

Efficacy of Treatment

Not only has Botox been proven to give patients an 80 percent reduction in the appearance of treated wrinkles, it's also been independently tested and approved by the FDA as a certified anti-wrinkle treatment. Unfortunately, the drug does not produce permanent results and must be re-administered every 3 to 6 months.

Step-By-Step About the Injections

The typical first appointment for a Botox patient is simply an introduction and informational discussion with their practitioner or doctor. In this first appointment, they'll talk about risks, results, costs and what to expect.

The second appointment for an appointment is the actual treatment. It starts with your doctor finding and marking every injection point and then disinfecting the treatment area. Next, your plastic surgeon or dermatologist will measure out the required amount of the drug.

Finally, the unit is injected right into the muscle. Most Botox patients report little to no pain or discomfort, and some even find the injections relaxing. As the Botox begins to make their impact, it can take up to 7 to 10 days before the final treatment results are visible.

The average treatment lasts between 5 to 10 minutes, not including preparation time.

After Your Treatment

After your injections, you can go right back to work or your regular, everyday activities. Most doctors ask that you avoid laying down and try to stay out of the sun.

Where to Find a Doctor

To find a qualified and certified practitioner, please consult either the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (plasticsurgery.org) or the American Academy of Dermatology (aad.org) for searchable listings of certified Botox practitioners. There, you should be able to locate a number of doctors who are both experienced and close to your home.

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