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.

Approved for use in Canada initially in 1990, Botox was first used 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 followup treatments every three to five 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 – but here are typical ranges:

• Frown lines starting at $300 to $700 (depends on depth of line and size of area) for the first visit, then repeat as desired, typically every 3 – 5 months.
• Mini Soft Lift (Botox and Juvederm): starting at $400 to $1000, typically every 3 – 5 months, with the facial filler Juvederm typically longer lasting.

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

Deciding between Botox and dermal fillers is a choice that must align with your objectives. Botox excels in easing expression lines, whereas fillers are adept at volumizing and sculpting.

Guiding you to the right choice is where our expertise shines. Often, a synergistic approach using both Botox and dermal fillers yields the optimal results. Yet, our focus during your complimentary consultation remains steadfastly on crafting a plan that’s right for your individual needs and aesthetic aspirations.

When considering Botox and its alternatives for cosmetic treatments, it’s good to be aware of all available options. In North America, the main competitors to Allergan’s Botox Cosmetic include: Dysport, Xeomin and Jeuveau.

At our clinic, we’ve explored the spectrum of these products, maintaining an open-minded approach to the latest developments in the field. However, through our extensive experience, we’ve found Botox to be the Gold Standard. Allergan, the maker of Botox, not only delivers a product of unmatched quality and efficacy but also provides exceptional benefits such as advanced training for practitioners and outstanding customer service. This comprehensive support and proven effectiveness make Botox our preferred choice for achieving the best possible aesthetic outcomes for our patients.

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