Botox^® Cosmetic

Botulinum toxin, or other prescription injectables known as neuromodulators are commonly referred to as Botox. The name is from Allergan, the company that created BOTOX® Cosmetic (technically called “onabotulinumtoxinA”). Allergan’s Botox dominates the market, but other competitors include Dysport, Xeomin, Jeuveau, Myobloc/NeuroBloc, etc. Botox Cosmetic is used to treat dynamic wrinkles that are caused by repeated contraction of the underlying muscles on the face. Botox Cosmetic treatments work by using a purified protein below the surface of the skin to block the transmission of nerve impulses to the treated muscles. As the muscle relaxes, the dynamic wrinkle overlying the muscle is smoothed away. Relaxation of these muscles by the simple injection of Botox Cosmetic will help to lessen or completely remove frown lines between the eyebrows, crow’s feet (lines at the outside corners of the eyes), and forehead wrinkles. When it is administered by a qualified physician using the proper technique, your face will still look natural and relaxed. Botox Cosmetic treatments are often used at the same time as dermal fillers or other cosmetic procedures to achieve a refreshed and rejuvenated look. For example, Botox Cosmetic treatments may be used on wrinkles at the outside corners of the eyes, while a dermal filler may be better used to restore lost volume in the cheeks or lips and to treat smile lines. Botox Cosmetic can still be effectively used after plastic surgery or other treatments. Botox is a prescribed medication and needs to be administered through a qualified and knowledgeable professional. The physician treating you is an important aspect of your care as it’s their expertise that will help ensure you get the results you are looking for.

Botox will typically last up to four months, but a three to five month range is normal.

Understanding the full scope of Botox, including its possible side effects, is key to informed care. While generally well-tolerated, some may experience temporary redness, swelling at the injection site, or mild bruising. Rarely, there can be muscle weakness or headaches. See nearby section “Is Botox Safe?” for how long it has been approved for use in Canada and how commonly it is used.

Botox has emerged as a safe and effective treatment for hyperhidrosis, offering relief from excessive sweating by safely targeting sweat glands to reduce overactivity, enhancing both comfort and confidence in daily life. The most common areas for Botox hyperhidrosis treatment are underarms (aka armpits) and hands.

Botox is indeed recognized as a proactive measure for chronic migraine relief. By administering Botox Medical strategically, we can help diminish the frequency and intensity of migraine episodes, providing a new avenue of hope for those seeking respite from this debilitating condition.

Approved for use in Canada initially in 1990, Botox was first used medically to treat eyelid spasms (including in children), cerebral palsy and migraine headaches. Later in 2002, its cosmetic applications for the treatment of wrinkles were also approved. It is now used to treat more than 75 medical conditions including stuttering, voice tremors, back pain, and excessive sweating (aka hyperhidrosis). Botox is produced by industry leaders Allergan (an Abbvie sub-company), who are Lakeshore Vein & Aesthetics Clinic’s partners in providing extensive training for advanced cosmetic techniques.

A patient’s optimal outcomes are typically based on regular follow-up treatments every three to six months, and these are often at a lower cost since maintenance usually requires less injectable product than the initial treatment. Price range and number of treatments can vary greatly with each patient – a personal consultation is required.

Note: if Botox is being used for migraines or hyperhidrosis, there may be some expenses covered by extended/private health care insurance plans.

Visit our “Pre- and Post-Treatment Information” page for information regarding treatment instructions for Botox®.