Joseph Niamtu1. 1. Oral/Maxillofacial and Cosmetic Facial Surgery, 10230 Cherokee Rd, Richmond, VA 23235, USA. niamtu@niamtu.com
Abstract
PURPOSE: Botulinum toxin A (Botox; Allergan, Inc, Irvine, CA) has been used safely and effectively for the management of rhytids and dynamic lines of the face. Much of the initial anecdotal experience with Botox has changed with experience and is reported by the author. PATIENTS AND METHODS: In a 56-month period, 439 vials of Botox were used for primarily cosmetic improvement of facial lines and rhytids. Four hundred seventeen patients underwent 1,085 treatment episodes with an estimated 17,000 injections that were tracked on a database and reviewed. RESULTS: Botox is a safe and effective treatment for the temporary improvement of facial lines and dynamic rhytids in selected anatomic regions. The techniques of reconstitution, storage, use, dose, and technique may not be as sensitive as originally described. CONCLUSION: When following minimal guidelines, the use of Botox for cosmetic facial applications is safe, predictable, and without serious complications and provides generalized patient satisfaction. Copyright 2003 American Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons J Oral Maxillofac Surg 61:317-324, 2003
PURPOSE: Botulinum toxin A (Botox; Allergan, Inc, Irvine, CA) has been used safely and effectively for the management of rhytids and dynamic lines of the face. Much of the initial anecdotal experience with Botox has changed with experience and is reported by the author. PATIENTS AND METHODS: In a 56-month period, 439 vials of Botox were used for primarily cosmetic improvement of facial lines and rhytids. Four hundred seventeen patients underwent 1,085 treatment episodes with an estimated 17,000 injections that were tracked on a database and reviewed. RESULTS: Botox is a safe and effective treatment for the temporary improvement of facial lines and dynamic rhytids in selected anatomic regions. The techniques of reconstitution, storage, use, dose, and technique may not be as sensitive as originally described. CONCLUSION: When following minimal guidelines, the use of Botox for cosmetic facial applications is safe, predictable, and without serious complications and provides generalized patient satisfaction. Copyright 2003 American Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons J Oral Maxillofac Surg 61:317-324, 2003