8 Common Areas for Cosmetic Botox Injections
Medically Reviewed By William C. Lloyd III, MD, FACS
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How Botox WorksBotox®, or botulinum toxin type A—an injectable drug that causes temporary muscle weakness—is the most popular nonsurgical cosmetic procedure performed in the United States today. Botox blocks the nerve signals that cause muscles to contract, smoothing the lines and wrinkles caused by repetitive facial movements. It doesn’t work as well on facial wrinkles that are caused by the weakening or sinking of tissue, such as creases that form from the sides of the nose to the corners of the mouth. That said, some facial areas respond better to Botox than others.
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1. Forehead WrinklesThe development of forehead wrinkles—those horizontal creases that grace the top of your face and move with your expressions—are considered one of the first signs of aging. And they can be difficult to hide. Maybe that’s why these wrinkles are among the most common targeted with Botox.
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2. Crow’s FeetYou may not be amused by the small lines that extend from the corners of your eyes when you smile or laugh. They can give away your advancing age. Botox injections are often used to ease these lines, creating a more youthful appearance.
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3. Frown LinesThe lines on your forehead between the eyebrows that appear when you frown or furrow your brow can make you seem tired, angry or upset. Botox has been shown to reduce the depth of these lines and smooth them out.
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4. Bunny LinesDoctors often use medicines “off label” to treat conditions other than official FDA-approved indications. Bunny lines are an off-label use of Botox. These lines are on either side of your nose when you crinkle it. They spread from the bridge of the nose and can extend to the lower eyelid. Make sure you find a very experienced doctor when you want Botox for unapproved uses. This will help avoid unwanted effects on other facial muscles.
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5. Smoker’s LinesYou don’t have to smoke to have smoker’s lines—or perioral lines. These lines appear when you purse your lips and fan out into the surrounding skin. A very small amount of Botox can treat these lines in the hands of an experienced doctor. Seek out a doctor with extensive knowledge about this use. The wrong technique can cause problems using your lips.
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6. Marionette Lines and Mouth CornersMarionette lines extend from the corners of the mouth down toward the jaw. Often, the corners of the mouth droop as well. Small amounts of Botox can help correct both of these problems. The interplay of muscles in the lower face make this injection challenging. Your doctor should have a full understanding of how these muscles work together. Be sure to ask for before and after photos of the doctor’s patients.
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7. Neck Bands or CordsYou may start to notice bands or cords showing in your neck as you age. This occurs when the platysma muscles start to sag. Injecting Botox into these muscles causes them to relax. The muscles relax and become less visible. This technique can also relax the muscles at the jawline, creating a neck lift. Keep in mind that excess neck fat or loose skin will not respond to Botox.
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8. Sagging EyebrowsSurgery isn’t your only option if you’re interested in a brow lift. Botox can accomplish pleasing results if you find the right doctor. Botox relaxes the muscles that pull the eyebrow down. Doctors often combine Botox with a filler under the eyebrow to enhance the lift. Ophthalmologists may provide this service. These doctors have extensive knowledge of the eye and its musculature. This is important to avoid droopy eyelids or vision problems.
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Speak With Your DoctorBotox injections are considered safe. They’re quick (requiring just a single office visit) and last 4 to 6 months. Side effects, such as temporary drooping in part of the face, are not common. Ask your healthcare provider if Botox is a good option for you. You can start your search here on Healthgrades.com to look up doctors near you who perform Botox injections.
8 Common Areas for Cosmetic Botox Injections
