Despite the fact that Botox has been around for several years now, new uses still continue to be approved by the FDA and, as a result, expand its popularity. This fact was confirmed by a USA Today article titled, “New Wrinkle: Botox Approved to Treat Crow’s Feet.”
The history of Botox as an approved substance dates back to 1989 when it was first used to treat strabismus, also known as “crossed eyes”, and eye spasms. Since then the multi-billion dollar formula has extended its impact on the medical and cosmetic concerns of patients to include treatment of chronic migraines, overactive bladders,and excessive underarm sweating. It is currently most commonly known for its effective use in improving the appearance of moderate to severe glabellar lines, also often called frown lines, between the eyebrows. FDA approval for cosmetic treatment of frown lines took place in 2002.
Yesterday, on September 11, 2013, the FDA released a statement informing physicians and users of Botox Cosmetic, that onbotulinumtoxinA is now approved for use in the lateral canthal lines known as crow’s feet. With this announcement, Botox Cosmetic is currently the only FDA-approved drug treatment for crow’s feet. Xeomin and Dysport, two competitors of Botox which also contain botulinum toxins, remain only approved for use in frown lines when it comes to facial wrinkles.
Although Botox has long been used by plastic surgeons and dermatologists for other cosmetic purposes, injections made in sites that are not for treatment of frown lines or crow’s feet are considered off-label uses. While these uses are widespread and considered effective,they are not approved by the Food and Drug Administration. Off-label cosmetic uses include wrinkled foreheads, lines around the lips, and neck bands.
The use of Botox Cosmetic for crow’s feet may not be shocking news, but Dr. Hamilton considers the announcement of FDA approval to be significant. Patients may now be assured that intramuscular injections of the drug into this location are safe and that the effects have been thoroughly studied. Injections for crow’s feet may also safely be performed at the same time as treatments for frown lines. More information about the FDA Approval can be found in their news release.
At Hamilton Facial Plastic Surgery, Botox and injectable filler treatments are performed by both Dr. Hamilton andElizabeth Mangis, R.N. Ms. Mangis has been performing Botox injections for numerous years.A consultation with Dr. Hamilton and the registered nurse will help to determine which products are suitable for your cosmetic goals. Visit the website to read more about Botox and other injectable treatments. You can schedule an appointment by calling Hamilton Facial Plastic Surgery at (317)859-3810.