Botox FAQ

Is Botox toxic?

Botox® Cosmetic is FDA-approved drug, and a naturally-derived protein called onabotulinum toxinA.  Botox® injections are used to correct functional nuerologic disorders or for cosmetic reasons. Botox® is a prescription medicine that is injected into muscles and used to improve the look of mederate to severe frown lines between the eyebrows (glabellar lines) and around the eyes to improve the look of moderate to severe crow's feet lines in adults for a short period of time.   When injected properly with appropriate dosing, the risk of complications is extremely low. However, as with any medical treatment, there is the potential for adverse effects, and therefore, prior to treatment patients must be informed about the potential risks of these treatments.

Is Botox botulism?

No. Botox is a naturally occurring protein. Even in high doses, it does not result in botulism.

Does Botox paralyze my muscles?

No. Paralysis involves a permanent loss of movement resulting from injury to a nerve or muscle. Botox reduces the ability of the injected muscle to contract and cause overlying skin wrinkles. The effect generally lasts about 3 to 4 months and is not permanent.

What are the potential risks of Botox?

The greatest risk is when Botox is not injected properly. You may receive limited benefit, or you may experience a condition called ptosis (a dropping of the area injected). It is possible, but unlikely, that you will experience dry mouth, discomfort or pain at the injection site, tiredness, headache, neck pain, and eye problems: double vision, blurred vision decreased eyesight, drooping eyelids, swelling of your eyelids, or dry eyes. 

Is there an age limit for Botox?

Botox for cosmetic purposes should not be administered to anyone under 18 years of age.

Are there creams that have the same outcomes as Botox?

Topical creams only affect the outer layer of your skin. Botox is injected into your muscle layer. While topical creams may improve the surface appearance of your skin, the wrinkles treated by Botox originate much deeper, from the contractions of your facial muscles.

Should I get injected at a Botox party?

No. Botox, like any medical treatment, should never be administered in a social setting, whether alcohol is served or not.

Dr. Sood's primary goal is to provide excellent clinical results along with a high level of patient care and service. Patient satisfaction is our highest concern. We are dedicated to providing every patient with a pleasant experience, beginning with the first visit and continuing on through surgical procedures and treatments and postoperative care. We encourage patients to evaluate the benefits as well as the risks of each procedure within the confines of realistic expectations.