Dr. Gross provides a full range of medical and surgical skin care treatments for adults and children. Below are some of the more common conditions and services treated by Dr. Gross. If you need a dermatologist call today to schedule your appointment. Dr. Gross can diagnose and prescribe a treatment for you. Cosmetic–Botulinum Toxin (Botox) What It is Botulinum toxin, commonly referred to as “Botox,” blocks nerve signals and relaxes muscles to prevent contraction. This medicine has been used for almost 30 years to treat eye muscle disorders. While treating these eye disorders a clever ophthalmologist, married to a dermatologist, noticed botulinum toxin improved the appearance of wrinkles. Since that discovery, it has been FDA approved to treat frown (glabellar) lines. The improvement is temporary and usually requires repeat therapy in 3–4 month intervals to maintain benefits. What to Expect The immediate injection reaction is a crunchy feeling; the full effect may not be seen for 3 to 7 days. The goal is to get a relaxed look without frown lines. Dr. Gross usually likes to see his patients back after 2 weeks, to make sure enough medicine was used and you are pleased with your results. Most patients require between 20 to 40 units of Botox for the glabellar muscular wrinkle lines. Myobloc is the other type of Botox available in this country. While the units and dosing may differ, physicians experienced in its use achieve similar results. Dr. Gross has gone to multiple lectures on Botox. Not everyone is guaranteed a great result with every treatment, but we will work with you to try to get the best results possible. Other Uses of Botox Dr. Gross also uses Botox to treat excessive axillary (underarm) sweating. Other areas, such as hands, can also be treated for sweating. Due to the pain involved in hand injections, nerve block anesthesia is often used to tolerate the procedure. Botox has been tried for migraines and spastic muscular disorders, however, these are off-label (non-FDA-approved) uses. At Piedmont Dermatology Center, we will only use FDA-approved Botox, and we will only use Botox at medically sensible dosing for appropriate dermatologic uses. Common Side Effects Often there is soreness at the injection site. Bruising can also occur. Dr. Gross tries to minimize bruising by having patients avoid aspirin and other blood thinners for 10 days prior and 5 days after therapy. Headaches may also occur. As with any medicine, severe allergic reactions are possible. People with myasthenia gravis, Lampert-Eaton syndrome and amytrophic lateral sclerosis should not use Botox for cosmetic purposes. This information does not replace the advice of a physician nor does it imply a physican – patient relationship between the reader and Dr. Gross. GREENSBORO, NC Office ADDRESS: 806 Green Valley Road Suite 208 Greensboro, NC 27408 CONTACT US & APPOINTMENTS CALL: 336-389-1492 HOURS: Mondays 8-5 Thursdays & Fridays 7-3 FAX: 336-389-1494 Home | What We Treat | Meet Dr. Gross | Patient & Insurance Info | How To Find Us | New Patient Forms | Martinsville Overview | Martinsville Patient & Insurance Info | Martinsville How To Find Us | Copyright © 2008   |   Piedmont Dermatology   |   All Rights Reserved