Quick Facts About BOTOX® Cosmetic
- Principle Benefits: Minimally invasive treatment for smoothing dynamic wrinkles; quick procedure with no downtime
- Common Treatment Areas: Forehead lines, frown lines (between the brows), lip and chin wrinkles, and crow’s feet. Can also be used to gently lift the corners of the mouth or slim the jawline
- How It Works: Temporarily relaxes targeted facial muscles to reduce the appearance of wrinkles and prevent deeper lines from forming
- Result Longevity: Typically lasts 3 to 6 months with retreatment every 3 to 4 months

BOTOX® Cosmetic is one of the most popular non-surgical treatments in Rhode Island and worldwide. At our Providence-area practice, treatments take just minutes and deliver natural-looking, noticeable results—without surgery or downtime.
If you would like to learn more about BOTOX® Cosmetic, request a consultation online or call us at (401) 320-4085 and we will schedule your appointment.
- BOTOX® Cosmetic Candidates
- BOTOX® Injection Areas
- BOTOX® Cosmetic Benefits
- How BOTOX® Cosmetic Works
- BOTOX® Cosmetic Recovery
- BOTOX® Cosmetic Safety
- Preventative BOTOX® Injections
- BOTOX® Cosmetic Results
- BOTOX® Cosmetic Before & After
- BOTOX® Cosmetic Side Effects
- BOTOX® Cosmetic Cost
- BOTOX® Cosmetic Complements
- BOTOX® Cosmetic Alternatives
I have been seeing Dr. Polacek for Botox for two decades, and would not consider going anywhere else. Dr. Polacek is the consummate professional who also takes a personal interest in her patients. I always look forward to my visits. Andrea and the office staff are wonderful too, and you will leave happier for having been there. Highest recommendation.
Am I a Candidate for BOTOX® Cosmetic?
If you want to refresh your appearance without surgery, BOTOX® Cosmetic may be an excellent option. Ideal candidates are those looking to reduce the appearance of dynamic wrinkles—lines caused by repeated facial movements, such as frowning or squinting.
BOTOX® is a great alternative to a surgical brow lift for patients who want noticeable, natural-looking results with minimal downtime. A single, quick treatment can smooth fine lines and wrinkles for 3 to 5 months.
The Polacek Center for Plastic Surgery is recognized among the Top 250 Allergan/AbbVie aesthetic practices in the nation—out of an estimated 35,000 providers. This prestigious distinction is awarded to a select group based on their experience, expertise, and consistently exceptional patient outcomes. With advanced training and a commitment to natural-looking results, the team at the Polacek Center are trusted leaders in facial aesthetics, delivering safe, effective treatments tailored to each patient’s unique goals.

Lori Polacek, MD is a Diamond-level BOTOX® Injector.
Patient Results
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After What Can BOTOX® Injections Treat?
With years of experience and a loyal patient base, our providers expertly use BOTOX® Cosmetic to address a wide range of cosmetic and therapeutic concerns. BOTOX® injections can effectively treat:
Facial Wrinkles and Fine Lines
- Vertical frown lines (between the brows)
- Horizontal forehead furrows
- Crow’s feet (lines around the eyes)
- Wrinkles around the lips and chin
Non-Surgical Brow Lift
BOTOX® can create a subtle lifting effect in the brow area, giving the eyes a more open and refreshed appearance.
Lip and Mouth Rejuvenation
Injections can gently lift the lip area and re-contour the corners of the mouth, addressing sagging or drooping caused by aging.
Jaw Slimming and TMJ Treatment
For patients with a wider jaw appearance, BOTOX® can be used in the masseter muscle to create a slimmer facial profile. This technique also provides relief from Temporomandibular Joint (TMJ) dysfunction, reducing jaw tension and discomfort.
Vertical neck lines
Botox is now FDA-approved to treat platysma bands, softening vertical neck lines and enhancing jawline definition.
What Are the Benefits of BOTOX® Cosmetic?
Millions of people have chosen BOTOX® Cosmetic for its trusted, proven results. It offers a range of benefits that make it a popular choice for those seeking a refreshed, more youthful appearance:
- Safe – BOTOX® Cosmetic has a long-standing safety record, backed by decades of use in both medical and aesthetic treatments.
- Effective – It specifically targets dynamic lines and wrinkles, smoothing the skin and visibly softening facial expressions for a rejuvenated look.
- Long-Lasting – Results from BOTOX® injections typically last 3 to 5 months, and sometimes longer with regularly scheduled treatments.
- Natural-Looking – Because BOTOX® Cosmetic doesn’t alter your facial structure, the results appear subtle and natural, not frozen—just a more relaxed, youthful version of yourself.
Overview
How Does BOTOX® Cosmetic Work?
BOTOX® Cosmetic uses a purified neurotoxin to temporarily relax facial muscles that cause dynamic wrinkles—those formed by repeated expressions like frowning, squinting, or smiling.
When injected in small, precise doses, BOTOX® blocks nerve signals to the targeted muscles, allowing the skin to smooth out and wrinkles to soften or fade. In the hands of a skilled, board-certified plastic surgeon like Dr. Polacek, treatment is carefully tailored for natural-looking, subtle results.
- Treatment Time: About 15 minutes
- Discomfort: Minimal; tiny needle causes little to no irritation
- Downtime: None—patients typically resume normal activities immediately
Each treatment is customized based on your goals and facial anatomy, ensuring balanced, beautiful outcomes.
More ReviewsI am very very fortunate for the expertise of Lori polacek to recognize in my last appointment she saw something suspicious on my forehead while she was giving me Botox and she suggestion that I was to see a skin professional immediately because she did not like the way it looked I am so grateful for her knowledge that I caught this early and it was pre-cancer thank you so much this could have been a real problem if I didn’t take care of this right away cuz I just thought it was a little brown spot I can’t wait to go back and see her again thank you
Donna I.
February 26, 2021
Is BOTOX® Cosmetic Safe?
Yes—BOTOX® Cosmetic is FDA-approved and widely considered very safe when administered by a trained, experienced professional. It has been used for decades to treat moderate to severe facial lines, including:
- Frown lines
- Crow’s feet
- Forehead wrinkles
While mild side effects like temporary redness or swelling can occur, serious complications are rare. With our board certified, qualified providers you can expect a safe, effective treatment and natural-looking results.
What Are Preventative BOTOX® Injections?
Preventative BOTOX® is a proactive treatment used by many patients in their 20s and 30s to help maintain smooth, youthful skin. Rather than treating existing wrinkles, it aims to delay their formation.
By injecting small amounts of BOTOX® into targeted facial muscles, the treatment reduces muscle movement that causes dynamic wrinkles—like frown lines and crow’s feet. Over time, this can slow the development of fine lines and help keep wrinkles less noticeable in the future.
Is There Recovery After BOTOX® Injections?
No downtime is required after BOTOX® Cosmetic treatment, making it a convenient option for non-surgical facial rejuvenation. Most patients return to their normal activities immediately.
Mild side effects like redness, swelling, or minor bruising may occur but typically resolve within a few hours to a few days. These are usually minimal and easily managed.
Simple Aftercare Tips:
- Avoid lying down for 3–4 hours after treatment
- Don’t rub or massage the injection sites
- Skip alcohol the day of your appointment to reduce bruising risk
Your provider will give you personalized aftercare instructions to help ensure optimal results. If you have any concerns post-treatment, our team is always here to help.
How Long Do BOTOX® Injections Last?
Results from BOTOX® injections usually emerge over a period of 5 to 7 days with the final result visible by 2 weeks. You can expect your BOTOX® Cosmetic results to last about 3-6 months.
I went today to Dr. Polacek. I was very happy with my results. But more importantly I was impressed with how everything was done. I have had Botox and fillers before at other drs. but never experienced all the attention I was given today. Gail. R
Gail. RBOTOX® Cosmetic Before and After Pictures
This 40 year old patient underwent two treatments of injections. The first treatment consisted of one treatment of BOTOX® Cosmetic between the eyes and the crow’s feet, as well as a treatment of JUVÉDERM® in the lower face. The second treatment consisted of an additional syringe of JUVÉDERM® in the lower face 12 days later. She was very happy with the results, voicing to Dr. Polacek that she felt “10 years younger.” The patient also remarked that she felt Dr. Polacek did a wonderful job of being gentle, and that the process was overall painless.

Are There Any Side Effects to BOTOX® Cosmetic?
When performed by a qualified professional, BOTOX® Cosmetic has a low risk of complications. Most side effects are mild and temporary, such as:
- Redness, swelling, or bruising at the injection site
- Mild pain or tenderness
- Headache
- Temporary asymmetry
- Dry eyes or excessive tearing
Serious side effects are rare and will be discussed in detail during your consultation. If you have concerns after treatment, please contact our office—our team is here to ensure your safety and peace of mind.
How Much Do BOTOX® Injections Cost?
BOTOX® Cosmetic costs approximately $250 to $750 on average. The price varies for every patient depending on how many units are needed to provide optimal results. During your consultation, a facial assessment will be performed, allowing our providers to evaluate which areas can benefit from BOTOX® injections. Before your treatment, our team will provide you with a personalized cost quote to ensure you know what to expect. Keep in mind that BOTOX® Cosmetic is a temporary solution, and to maintain your youthful-looking results, you will need to return for follow-up treatments in the future.
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Complements to BOTOX® Cosmetic
If wrinkles aren’t your only concern, we offer a range of non-surgical treatments to enhance your skin’s tone, texture, and overall appearance:
- IPL (NORDLYS™ Intense Pulsed Light): Targets hyperpigmentation, redness, acne, and uneven tone using light-based energy. While BOTOX® relaxes facial muscles, IPL rejuvenates the skin itself.
- Microneedling (Vivace™ RF): Combines microneedling with radiofrequency to improve skin texture, stimulate collagen, and restore a more radiant, youthful complexion.
- Dermal Fillers (JUVÉDERM®): Address volume loss in areas like the lips, cheeks, and temples. Fillers complement BOTOX® by restoring fullness and contour to aging features.
- DiamondGlow® Microdermabrasion: A 3-in-1 treatment that exfoliates, extracts, and infuses serums for smoother, more hydrated skin. DiamondGlow® refreshes the skin’s surface while BOTOX® works below to smooth expression lines.
Are There Any Alternatives to BOTOX® Injections?
If you are not a candidate for BOTOX® Cosmetic or prefer a different approach, our expert team offers a variety of non-surgical alternatives to help you achieve your aesthetic goals. Dermal fillers may be an excellent option for minimizing facial lines and restoring lost volume—particularly in the lower face. While BOTOX® targets dynamic wrinkles caused by muscle movement, fillers are designed to treat static wrinkles that are visible even without facial expression.
If injectables aren’t right for you, our providers may recommend advanced skin treatments such as Fraxel® Dual, which can improve skin tone, texture, and overall appearance.
If you’re interested in looking more youthful without surgery, a consultation with one of our board certified providers will help determine whether BOTOX® Cosmetic—or one of its alternatives—is best suited to your needs.