FROTOX = FROZEN + Botox ®
A new procedure being tested in the UK may give Botox ® some stiff competition. The procedure uses patented Focused Cold Therapy by Iovera, which lends itself to the nickname Fro-tox, is developed and designed by Myoscience, a Silicon Valley medical tech company. The new technique uses pressurized liquid nitrous oxide that travels at very high speeds down a fine 27G closed-end needle. Precise placement is aimed at making the nerves controlling wrinkles to become paralyzed. There is a degree of uncertainty with this procedure, because success depends on hitting the right nerves to achieve the desired result. It is not approved by the FDA in the US and while Botox ® has been around for more than 30 years and has a proven track record, the recent scientific innovations in the realm of anti-aging treatments is promising.
Last month, the FDA granted additional approval to Botox ® to be used for the temporary treatment of wrinkles around the eyes. Treatments last from 4-6 months and must be repeated for results to be ongoing. Currently, the only permanent remedy for wrinkle reduction and facial rejuvenation are fat graft injections. This procedure utilizes a patient’s own liposuctioned fat cells, that are injected into wrinkles to minimize them. This technique is similar to using injectable fillers, without the artificial compounds. I have found that my patients appreciate a having a natural option when addressing facial aging. The added benefit of the regenerative properties of fat grating methods makes it a desirable choice for my patients.
