What is it?

Botox is the brand name for the medicine Botulinum Toxin, which has been used in different medical conditions in the past. Now, FDA has approved the use of this medicine for temporary reduction of facial wrinkles produced by hyperactive facial muscles.

What does it accomplish?     

The purpose of Botox is to reduce or eliminate the deep, persistent lines that are between your brows, your forehead, or the corners of your eyes. These lines are produced by the activity of the facial muscles. Botulinum toxin temporarily weakens or paralyses these muscles. Although other areas of the face have been injected with Botox, the areas mentioned above are the most common.

What happens during the first consultation?

In the first consultation you will get a chance to discuss your concerns with our patient care coordinators and Dr. Marefat. We will tell you what you need to know about your procedure and will help you determine what is best for you. You will receive information booklets, review before and after photographs, and receive pricing on the procedures.

How is it done?  

The procedure is done by injection of the toxin directly into the muscle that is causing the facial line. The toxin is first diluted with saline. The area to be injected can be anesthetized so that you do not feel the sting of the Botox injection. Usually 1 or 2 cc is enough to produce the desired effect.

What can I expect after the injection?

After the injection the area may remain numb as a result of the local anesthetic for 1-2 hours. Occasionally, there may be a small amount of bruising in the injection site. This may be due to a small blood vessel being injured during the injection. The swelling from the injection will be completely gone in less than a day. Within 2-3 days you will start to see the beneficial effects of this medicine. The facial lines become softer and less conspicuous.

Procedure: Botox injection continued

How Long do the results last?

The results usually last 3-4 months. In rare occasions the result may last less than 3 months or more than 4 months. But such cases are exceptions and not the rule. The

When are the sutures removed?  

There are no sutures with Botox injections

How many visits do I have after surgery?

We like to see our patients frequently after surgery. You are seen by the doctor or nurse within 2 weeks of injection. Then the normal routine is 3 months after injection. Of course if there is a need, you are seen as many times as necessary. We encourage our patients to come for their follow-up Botox injection every 3-4 months.

When can I cover my bruises with make-up?

You should be able to put makeup on your bruises immediately. The bruising is less likely to occur if you refrain from taking aspirin containing medications two weeks before your injection.

Am I a good candidate?

The ideal candidate for Botox injection is person who has significant frown lines or laugh lines when their face is not animated. There is no definite age category when the injection should be done. Most patients that seek this procedure are over 30 years old. The ideal candidate for plastic surgery is a self-motivated patient who has realistic expectations about the results.   Generally the younger you are the better a candidate you are for surgery. But the physiologic age of person is more important than the chronological age. That is to say you may be 60 years old, but your skin and general health could be better than most who are 50 years old.

What does the surgery cost?

The cost of Botox includes the cost of the medication, the injection, and the post injection follow-up. The fee may be subject to change without notice. The best way for you get an accurate cost analysis is to see a doctor.

Botox 1 cc                    $300

Botox 2 cc                    $550

Botox 3 cc                    $750

Botox 4 cc                    $900

Why do prices for Botox injections vary so widely from one place to anothe r?

It seems like you get a wide range of prices for the same procedure with Botox injection. The reason is that the medicine can be diluted with water. Each cc of injection may not have the same number of units of Botulinum Toxin. For this reason a certain facility may be able to distribute the cost of medicine to a greater number of patients and thus be able to sell it 'cheaper'. Dr. Marefat dilutes the medicine only to the amount that has been determined to be the standard of care among the most knowledgeable and renowned plastic surgeons.

How do I pay for surgery?   

You can pay for surgery by certified check, credit card, or cash. Payments for cosmetic surgery are expected prior to the procedure. If you are scheduling several weeks in advance of surgery you can pay by personal check.

Procedure: Botox Injections continued

Are there scars?

No.

Does it hurt?

There is minimal temporary discomfort as the injection is being given. Dr.Marefat usually numbs the area to be injected with local anesthetic so that you do not have too much pain.

Will I be awake during the procedure?

Yes. You do not need any sedation for this procedure.

Where is the procedure performed (i.e. office suite or hospital)?

The procedure is performed in the office.

Are medical photographs taken?  

Yes. Photographs are mandatory for all cosmetic and reconstructive cases. Photographs are the only way for us to compare your before and after results. Photographs in plastic surgery serve the same role that x-rays serve for orthopedic surgery.

Date Revised: 1/23/07

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