BOTOX®

Cosmetic is a prescription drug that, when injected, temporarily paralyzes muscles. It contains a purified and safe form of botulinum toxin A, which is produced by the microbe that causes botulism. Manufactured by Allergan, Inc., it is used to treat permanent furrows and deep wrinkles in the skin that are formed by the continual contraction of facial muscles. In addition to its cosmetic applications, it is used to treat a number of medical problems, including excessive sweating, overactive bladder, neck spasms, crossed eyes, chronic back and jaw pain, and migraines.

Procedure and Results

Using a very fine needle, BOTOX Cosmetic is injected directly into facial muscles that are causing furrows and lines. Receiving the injections requires no anesthetic, but some doctors choose to numb the area to be injected with ice packs or a topical anesthetic cream. Results can usually be seen within a few days of treatment, and typically last up to four months, although areas that are treated on a regular basis may retain results longer. Injections should be given only by qualified medical professionals.

Dysport®

Dysport is an FDA-approved injection used to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles by relaxing facial muscles in the forehead. Similar to BOTOX® Cosmetic, Dysport is injected directly into the site of wrinkles to prevent the underlying muscles from contracting. Dysport injections are made from the bacterium Clostridium botulinum, the same protein used in Botox injections.

Dysport injections are ideal for nearly anyone wishing to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles on the face and restore a younger, more refreshed appearance. The injections are administered directly into the facial muscles that cause frown lines and other wrinkles; these injections are generally painless, with no need for anesthesia. Treatment sessions typically take less 15 minutes, and are administered at six-week intervals. Three to five injections are usually required to achieve desired results.

Dysport injections are generally safe, although there are certain risks associated with any procedure. These risks include soreness and bruising for several hours after treatment, an allergic reaction or ptosis (droopiness of the eyelid). The risk of complications can be reduced by choosing a qualified physician for your procedure.

Xeomin®

Xeomin is a form of botulinum toxin type A that can be injected into the muscles just beneath the skin to reduce facial lines and wrinkles. Particularly effective in treating deep frown lines between the eyebrows, Xeomin has received FDA approval.

Like other types of botulinum treatments, Xeomin prevents muscles from contracting. However, Xeomin is different from its predecessors in that it contains no additives, which may decrease a patient's antibody reaction. If the immune system is not creating antibodies to fight it, the treatment will be much more successful.

Results of Xeomin treatment are typically evident in one week and last between three and six months.

Radiesse®

Radiesse® is a synthetic filler composed of calcium hydroxylapatite (CaHA) microspheres in a water-based gel. These microspheres stimulate the production of collagen by your body, restoring volume and contour to the treated areas of your face. Radiesse is generally recommended to treat deeper wrinkles of the face. It is a safe filler that produces immediate results that can last for a year and sometimes even longer with touch-up treatments.

How do you choose the best filler for your needs? Radiesse, Restylane and Juvederm are all safe and FDA approved. Radiesse is longer lasting than its competitors, usually by a number of months. It can also provide more facial contouring as well as elimination of lines. However, Radiesse cannot be used on the lips because it may cause bumps. In some cases it produces more swelling than Restylane or Juvederm. It also may be a little more painful a procedure to receive. If there is an allergic reaction or uneven appearance, Restylane and Juvederm are easy to remove, while Radiesse is more difficult.