How Botulinum Toxin Injections Work

As the principal surgeon at POMS Oral & Facial Surgery, Dr. John Won performs procedures through medical offices in both Raleigh and Elizabeth City, North Carolina. In addition to providing a variety of oral and maxillofacial surgical services, Dr. John Won offers lip and facial cosmetic injectables through POMS’ sister company, Athena Skin & Body.

The active ingredient in many cosmetic injections, botulinum toxin interferes with the nerve signals that cause muscles to contract. This means that this purified bacterial substance effectively paralyzes muscles and prohibits their movement.

For this reason, botulinum toxin has been used to treat conditions that range from neck spasms to overactive bladders. It is best known, however, for its ability to reduce the appearance or severity of facial wrinkles.

Botulinum toxin’s wrinkle-fighting powers come about from the fact that elongated facial muscles don’t produce the same deep wrinkles that contracted facial muscles do. As the muscles beneath it are allowed to relax, wrinkled skin becomes softer and smoother.