What is Botox ®?

Botox is a commercially made pharmaceutical which is used in both the cosmetic and health care arenas. It is a neurotoxin that is derived from the bacterium Clostridium botulinum. The product blocks neurotransmitters which prevents the action of muscle firing. In other words, it temporarily paralyzes muscles.

One might think this is very scary, however, providers use the Botox ® in very small amounts and place it into muscles very carefully and directly so that only specific muscles are targeted. Botox ® is commonly used to stop and prevent wrinkling in between the eyebrows and along the outside of the eye (also known as laugh lines). But Botox ® has been used in other aspects of medicine. Botox ® can be injected into certain muscles which attach to the scalp to prevent tension migraines/headaches. And it can also be injected into the axillae(armpits) to prevent sweating!

Administration of Botox ® is an office procedure which takes anywhere from 15- 30 minutes and the patient can go back to their day immediately. There is usually only minimal swelling, bleeding or bruising, if any at all.

The average price of Botox ® is $13-$15/unit and it can last anywhere from 3-12 months depending on each individual and where in the body it’s injected. We often have specials on the prices, so keep your eyes out for those. And feel free to call anytime with questions. We’re happy to answer them!