Botox®

No matter how well skin is preserved and pampered, everyone eventually develops facial wrinkles. Fortunately, there are a number of options available to remove many of the lines that accompany aging. Botox is an extremely quick approach to softening or removing the natural wrinkles between the eyes (glabella), on the sides of the eyes (crow’s feet), and on the forehead.

What is Botox?

Botox is a purified protein toxin that is derived from a specific form of bacteria. Botox was originally used as a remedy to treat neck and facial spasms, but has also been FDA-approved to remove and smooth wrinkles in certain areas of the face.

How much does Botox cost?

Botox units are $12 per unit when administered by a nurse injector and $14 per unit when administered by a surgeon.

If you have any questions, please call us at 913-663-3838 (Leawood) or 816-436-3262 (North Kansas City).

How is Botox used?

Throughout the course of the day, the muscles of your upper face contract several times. Over time, these muscle contractions create virtual “creases,” or wrinkles in the skin. Botox is injected through a very small needle into the muscles that are responsible for causing these contractions. The Botox injection impedes the nerve impulse from reaching these muscles and eventually results in muscle relaxation, which causes the facial wrinkles to soften and disappear. Patients may experience slight discomfort during Botox injections, but the feeling lasts for only five to seven seconds. An entire Botox treatment, which is performed in our office, generally lasts between 10 and 15 minutes.

Once Botox treatment is complete

After receiving Botox treatment, patients can return to their normal routines the same day. The facial muscles will relax within four to five days, causing wrinkles to either lessen or disappear completely. The muscles will continue to remain in a relaxed state for three to four months. Further treatment will be necessary to erase returning wrinkles. After several treatments, you will likely find that your Botox treatments are effective for longer periods of time.