Experts Say OK to Fast Facelifts

Scientists have finally given an all-clear to the lunchtime facelift. The treatment, so-called because of claims it can be done in a few minutes during a lunch break, consists of two or three injections of a purified form of the normally highly poisonous botulism bacteria called Botox.

Experts gave their official backing after completion of an international study by professor Nicholas Lowe of the Cranley Clinic in London, which was reported to a meeting of the American Academy of Dermatology. The research involved tests on more than 250 patients.

With the treatment, doctors inject Botox directly into the frown lines, where the substance works by paralyzing the small muscles involved in frowning. Scientists reported that the treatment made patients look younger almost immediately and that it smoothed lines in the face for up to half a year.

"We are impressed by these new findings and the tremendous possibility for Botox use," said Lowe, a skin specialist. "Even though thousands of patients with facial wrinkles have been successfully treated for a decade, it is incredibly important to have proof positive of Botox's remarkable safety, efficacy and long duration of action."

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