Effect of botulinum toxin type A on movement-associated rhytides following CO2 laser resurfacing

BACKGROUND. Many patients who undergo CO2 laser resurfacing for correction of rhytides experience recurrence of movement-associated wrinkles within 6 to 12 months following the laser procedure. OBJECTIVE. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effect of botulinum toxin type A (Botox) injections on movement-associated rhytides following cutaneous laser resurfacing. METHODS. Forty patients who had received full face CO2 laser resurfacing for the treatment of facial rhytides were randomized to receive Botox injections to the glabella, forehead or lateral canthal regions or to receive no additional treatment (control group). Clinical and photographic assessments were performed at baseline and at 3, 6 and 9 months. RESULTS. Enhanced and more prolonged correction of forehead, glabellar and/or lateral canthal rhytides was observed in patients treated with Botox injections postoperatively compared to non-Botox treated control patients. CONCLUSION. The use of botulinum toxin type A following cutaneous CO2 laser resurfacing results in prolonged correction of movement-associated rhytides. It is advised that patients receive information regarding the benefits of maintenance therapy with botulinum toxin as part of their routine preoperative education.