A Growing Trend: Botox in Men

Men are a fas-growing segment of the cosmetic surgery population, representing approximately 10% of all cosmetic procedures. They are particularly interested in minimally invasive cosmetic procedures that can produce immediate results without postoperative recovery. Botulinum toxin injections fit the bill and have become the single most common cosmetic procedure in men, accounting for nearly 37% of all cosmetic procedures performed in the United States. Over the last several years, men have increasingly used botulinum toxin to reduce facial wrinkling, with a 314% rise since 2000-- totaling 389,569 injections in 2012.

Despite the increased interest in botulinum toxin, the scientific data regarding its use in men is lacking. A recent review published in the journal, Dermatologic Surgery, by Georgetowners Dr. Terrence Keaney and Dr. Tina Alster of the Washington Institute of Dermatologic Surgery examined all of the available data on the use of botulinum toxin in men. They found that despite gender differences in facial anatomy, the use of botulinum toxin in men is inadequately studied. Out of the hundreds of studies reviewed, only three studies examined the impact of gender on dosing, efficacy and safety of botulinum toxin. Those studies demonstrated that men require higher doses, but had no increase in adverse events.

Drs. Keaney and Alster are convinced that science needs to catch up with male interest in all cosmetic procedures- not only botulinum toxin. That was one of the reasons why they founded W for Men, the nation’s first cosmetic and laser surgery center for men. They hope to add to the scientific knowledge on cosmetic procedures in men by conducting clinical studies, starting with a botulinum toxin dosing study this Spring. If you are interested in being considered for study inclusion, please contact tkeaney@skinlaser.com.