Neurotoxins

Botulinum toxin is integral to the practice of facial plastic surgery. Since it was approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration for the temporary improvement of glabellar rhytids in 2002, botulinum toxin has achieved a growing number of off-label clinical applications. These include the management of facial rhytids, brow ptosis, excessive gingival display, masseteric hypertrophy, platysmal banding, facial nerve paralysis, hypertrophic scars, and keloids. Many forms of botulinum toxin have been developed, and their safety and efficacy have been thoroughly established. This article will review the aesthetic and functional uses of botulinum toxin as it relates to the field of facial plastic and reconstructive surgery. In addition, the authors will discuss the suggested quantity of units per injection site based on onabotulinumtoxinA.