"Botox" is a brand name of a Neuromodulator (such as Nuceiva, Dysport, Xeomin). Neuromodulator is a purified, natural protein derived from Clostridium botulinum bacteria.

It is used cosmetically to reduce the appearance of facial wrinkles by blocking the message from the nerve to the muscle, which results in muscle relaxation, creating a smoother, relaxed look and improved appearance. This medication stays local in the muscles that are injected.

The most common areas treated with Botox include:

• Forehead lines (muscle of the forehead)

• Brow lift and crow's feet (muscle around the eyes)

• Frown lines between the eyebrows (the 11's).

Other areas of treatment:

• On the nose to soften the Bunny Lines (on the nose)

• Around the lips to make the lips look fuller (Lip Flip) or to soften the lip lines (vertical lip lines)

• Muscles of the corner of the mouth to help to prevent Marionette Lines and create an upward smile

• On the muscle of the chin to reduce the Dimpled Chin appearance

• On the muscle that pulls up the upper lip to reduce Gummy Smile

• On the Masseters muscle to slim the face and reduce teeth grinding

• On the neck to reduce the appearance of neck bands and prevent sagginess of the lower face

No, it is not permanent. Botox's effects typically last 3 to 4 months on average, but everyone is different. The duration depends but is not limited to, individual metabolism, muscle strength, facial expressions, how much exercise you do, whether you get frequent sauna sessions, and the total dosage.

Usually, after 30 to 60 days, the muscle action starts gradually to return, and the wrinkles may slowly reappear until the "Botox" is entirely "eliminated" (broken down into natural by-products) from the areas treated.

If you follow Dr. Spinelli's directions and book your first 3 treatments promptly every 3-4 months (without waiting in between), you may eventually be able to increase the duration of the results (4-6 months) because the muscles will get weaker and you will ultimately make less strong and frequent facial expressions.

Botox injection results are typically noticeable within 3 to 5 days, with the full effect visible after about 2 weeks. Usually, Dr. Spinelli asks patients to wait 2 weeks for the total result and come to a follow-up visit.

Botox injections involve very fine needles, so the pain is usually minimal and brief. Some people describe it as a pinching or stinging sensation. Dr. Spinelli uses a vibration tool that interferes with pain signals and distracts the brain, making the pain sensation less noticeable and the treatment tolerable.

Most patients do not experience any side effects. Most side effects are temporary and resolve on their own.

Common side effects include mild redness, local swelling, and bruising at the injection site. Some people may experience headaches and flu-like symptoms during their first treatment.

Drooping eyelid is a very rare side effect. The incidence of this side effect is less than 1% and lasts only a few days to a few weeks.

Botox is not recommended for pregnant or breastfeeding women, people with certain neurological conditions, or those with allergies to any of the ingredients in Botox. A consultation with a healthcare provider is essential to determine if Botox is appropriate for you.

Before treatment: Avoid alcohol, aspirin, and anti-inflammatory medications for at least 24 hours to reduce the risk of bruising.

After treatment: Avoid rubbing or massaging the treated area, stay upright for 4 hours, and avoid strenuous exercise, alcohol, and exposure to excessive heat for 24 hours.

The cost of the treatment varies by patient and depends on the number of units used in each area and the number of areas being treated. A personal consultation can give you the exact amount.

The price per unit varies, on average, from $10 to $12, with typical treatment areas requiring 25-50 units.

There are a few things you should consider in addition to price: What type of medical professional is performing the treatment? Has the medical professional had extensive experience injecting neuromodulators? Is the medical professional gentle and uses the latest techniques to ensure a great result?

A unit of a neuromodulator is simply a very tiny measurement of a medication. For example, treating the glabella (the 11's = frown lines between the eyebrows) usually requires 15-50 units.

The exact number of units you require (to achieve the desired result) will be discussed during your confidential personal consultation.

Yes, Botox is often combined with other cosmetic treatments such as dermal fillers, chemical peels, and laser treatments to achieve more comprehensive rejuvenation results. It's best to discuss your goals with Dr. Spinelli to create a personalized treatment plan.