Karen Klickmann (847) 240-1735[email protected]
Jennifer Gale(847) 240-1730 [email protected]
Julie Bremer(847) 240-1743[email protected]
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
PATIENT ALERT: AMERICAN ACADEMY OF DERMATOLOGY STRESSES THE SAFE USE OF BOTULINUM TOXIN
SCHAUMBURG, IL (April 30, 2002) -- Since the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approval of one form of botulinum toxin, it has been widely reported that patients are attending so called "Botox(r) parties" for the administration of this drug. Botulinum toxin treatments being performed in casual social settings rather than in a controlled medical environment contradicts the seriousness of this medical procedure.
Botulinum toxin is a purified form of one of the most potent toxins in the world. In high doses, it can cause the clinical disease botulism. However, when carefully injected by dermatologists and dermatologic surgeons in very low doses, botulinum toxin is a modern tool that can reduce the signs of aging. The American Academy of Dermatology (AAD) urges patients to select a qualified physician, such as a dermatologist, when considering this or any cosmetic procedure.
"A casual social activity for the purpose of administering botulinum toxin, such as a 'Botox(r) Party,' is an inappropriate and a potentially dangerous setting for performing medical procedures of any kind," said Fred F. Castrow II, MD, President of the American Academy of Dermatology. "Adding alcohol to the mix is a bad idea for a number of reasons, especially since bruising can be intensified."
"As with any medical procedure, the possibility of adverse effects occurring from a botulinum toxin injection is always a possibility. Therefore, the American Academy of Dermatology strongly believes that patient safety comes first and should not be taken lightly under any circumstance."
Because this is a quick method to treat wrinkles with no downtime, many patients are compromising their safety by having this medical procedure performed in an inappropriate setting, often by untrained medical professionals. To assist patients in choosing a qualified physician, the AAD recommends that before undergoing any cosmetic procedure, patients should ask the following questions:
* What are the doctor's credentials? Is he/she a board-certified dermatologist or other appropriately trained surgeon? Ask to see their credentials.* How many of these cosmetic surgery procedures has the physician performed?* What results can be expected? * How long is the recuperation period? Ask to see before and after photos of the physician's previous patients.* What are the risks?* Where is the cosmetic surgery usually performed?* What is the cost?
"While botulinum toxin has proven to be an effective treatment for wrinkles and other medical conditions, it is only one of the many safe and effective procedures for treating aging skin," said Dr. Castrow. "We encourage all patients to consult with their dermatologist to determine which treatment is best for them. A well-informed patient and a skilled dermatologist are always the best prescription for a successful outcome."
The American Academy of Dermatology, founded in 1938, is the largest, most influential, and most representative of all dermatologic associations. With a membership of over 14,000 dermatologists worldwide, the Academy is committed to: advancing the diagnosis and medical, surgical and cosmetic treatment of the skin, hair and nails; advocating high standards in clinical practice, education, and research in dermatology; supporting and enhancing patient care for a lifetime of healthier skin, hair and nails. For more information, contact the AAD at 1-888-462-DERM (3376) or www.aad.org.
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