Botox has been used for many years for a variety of different reasons. Despite this procedure’s popularity, there are still a number of myths surrounding Botox that are just not true. Five of the most pervasive myths are detailed below along with the true facts about getting Botox.

Myth #1 – Botox Injections are Very Painful

The myth surrounding injections of Botox is that the procedure is very painful. The truth however is that most people compare the sensation of the injections to a mosquito bite. There is a slight pinching feeling but it only lasts for a few seconds. No anesthetic is used or necessary during the procedure. A very fine needle is used with a tiny amount of liquid injected. The pain associated with these injections is minimal to completely non-existent.

Myth #2 – Botox Treatments Lead to the Loss of Facial Expressions

Many people think that getting Botox injections will cause you to lose the ability to have facial expressions. The truth of the matter is that these procedures will simply enhance expressions rather than erase them completely. Those who have had the treatments performed by a trained and skilled physician are still able to display the entire range of facial expressions including frowning, smiling and appearing surprised. The treatment simply relaxes the muscle at the injection point.

Myth #3 – Cosmetic Botox is the same as Botulism

It is a myth that cosmetic Botox consists of botulism or food poisoning. The reality is that Botox is made from a purified protein that is derived from the toxin. Many medications are derived from toxins and are completely safe. There has been extensive research and testing on Botox to ensure it is both safe and effective for users. Botox injections have one of the highest satisfaction ratings from patients with nearly 97% of users being happy with their results from the treatments.

Myth #4 – Botox is Only Effective for Facial Lines

Botox was actually developed as a treatment for neurological disorders not as a cosmetic facial treatment. It continues to be used for a variety of different conditions including depression, migraines, chronic neck and back pain, involuntary facial movements, strabismus, temporo-mandibular joint paint, hyperhidrosis as well as movement disorders such as facial spasms, writer’s cramps and neck tremors.

Myth #5 – Botox Treatments are Toxic, Unsafe and Dangerous

With nearly 20 years of use for a range of different conditions, Botox has a long and well-established safety history. More than 16 million treatments have been performed since it was first introduced in the marketplace. No long term side effects have ever been seen in users of the treatments even in studies that followed people who received thirty or more injections over a period of 9 years. It would take a dose of more than 100 times the average dose given for cosmetic use for cosmetic Botox treatments to be fatal.

Botox has been extremely popular throughout the years with more and more people using it to regain a youthful appearance. It can help to ease wrinkles around the eyes and forehead safely, quickly and virtually painlessly.


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Dr. Jeffrey Spiegel


Dr. Jeffrey Spiegel

With special expertise in all aspects of facial plastic surgery, and a particular skill for revision surgery, it’s clear why Dr. Spiegel is one of the most celebrated facial plastic surgeons in the world. If you are seeking the best possible results, or have a uniquely challenging problem, you’ve found the right doctor.

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Dr. Onir L. Spiegel


Dr. Onir L. Spiegel

Dr. Onir (pronounced “oh-near”) has years of experience in facial aesthetics and treats some of the most recognizable and famous faces. Dr. Onir started her career in oral health, earning doctorate degrees from both New York University and Boston University. She has been the recipient of numerous awards for her cutting-edge medical research as well as her technical skills in dentistry.

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Dr. Jacob Tower


Dr. Jacob Tower

A board-certified specialist in facial plastic surgery, Dr. Jacob Tower brings a thoughtful approach and an artistic eye to New England’s premier plastic surgery practice, The Spiegel Center in Newton, Massachusetts. In addition to being an in-demand surgeon, Dr. Tower is an assistant professor at the Boston University School of Medicine, a sought-after lecturer, and an expert in facial plastic surgery.

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