The U.S. Food and Drug Administration recently approved the use of Botox Cosmetic for the temporary improvement in the appearance of moderate to severe lateral canthal lines, known as crow’s feet, in adults. Botox was FDA approved in 2002 for treating glabellar lines (wrinkles between the eyebrows, known as frown lines), but now it is also the only FDA approved drug treatment option for crow’s feet.
“This additional indication will provide people with a new FDA approved treatment option for those seeking a smoother appearance by temporarily minimizing the appearance of crow’s feet at the sides of the eyes,” said Susan Walker, M.D., director of the Division of Dermatology and Dental Products in the FDA’s Center for Drug Evaluation and Research.
Why Botox?
OnabotulinumtoxinA, known by the common name “Botox,” is made from the same neurotoxin which can cause food-borne botulism. However, when this product is used correctly by directly injecting it into a specific muscle in controlled doses, the paralyzing effect of this substance freezes the muscle in place, which can make wrinkles appear far less visible on the skin’s surface. After being treated with Botox for crow’s feet by a professional, patients often notice the anti-wrinkle effects for as long as six months.
Crow’s feet, wrinkles that appear at the sides of the eyes, are believed to be caused by common facial expressions, such as smiling, squinting and frowning.While many doctors have been using Botox crow’s feet treatment for years, this approval by the FDA will hopefully instill patient confidence in the safety of the treatment.
If you would like to learn more about Botox, please contact our offices to set up a consultation!
Photo courtesy of Discovery Health.
