Botox is a type of toxin produced by a strain of bacteria that was initially isolated in contaminated meat. Today, botox serves a number of medical and therapeutic purposes, including treatment of cerebral palsy and other neurological problems. Perhaps the most well-known use for botox in present times, however, is to minimize the appearance of aging in the skin, especially in the face.

The effects of botox on wrinkles and fine lines was first discovered when it was used by ophthalmologists, who would inject botox into the muscles around the eyes of patients suffering from facial spasms. While the administration of botox was initially intended to address the spasms, doctors noticed that patients also experienced improvement of facial wrinkles.

Botox is now used to treat wrinkle and lines in the forehead, between and around the eyes, and around the mouth. Treatment with botox is very effective; it usually takes less than ten minutes for the entire procedure, and botox injections can be administered in a clinic or plastic surgeons office. The full results of a botox treatment are visible within days, and the effects usually last approximately three to four months. Most people opt for follow up botox treatments, with additional injections after four or five months.

Ten days prior to receiving an injection of botox, patients should cease taking daily vitamin E, daily multivitamins, St. John's Wort and anti-inflammatory medications, as all of these can increase possible bruising. Botox injections are administered with a fine needle directly into the muscle tissue, and are generally not considered painful, but patients receiving botox may take an approved pain medication approximately one half hour before treatment.

The popularity of botox is based on its effectiveness in treating the appearance of facial wrinkles and lines, coupled with the convenience of treatment. Botox allows anyone to achieve a more youthful, rejuvenated look in a matter of minutes, without surgery or extended recovery times. To learn more about botox and whether or not this treatment will help you achieve the results you want, contact a plastic surgeon with experience in administering botox.