A retrospective study in the use of botulinum toxin type-A in a UK multidisciplinary cosmetic practice.
BACKGROUND: Botulinum toxin type-A is established as safe and effective and is widely used for cosmetic indications; however, little data exist on patient satisfaction following treatment. AIMS: To correlate patient satisfaction with dose levels in the treatment of hyperfunctional facial lines. PATIENTS/METHODS: Retrospective data were collected on 300 patients treated with Botox for facial lines. Patients completed a subjective assessment of satisfaction with their treatment, and details of dose and treatment area were recorded. RESULTS: Eighty-five percent of patients rated their satisfaction with treatment as > or = 8 (on a 10-point scale), with higher scores seen at higher dosages. The highest mean score was seen in the 51-75 U dose group. Satisfaction was highest in patients who had three facial areas treated vs. those who had one or two areas treated. No safety issues were raised. CONCLUSIONS: The results show a high level of satisfaction with botulinum toxin type-A treatment, with most patients achieving a desired "natural" look. Future studies should be carried out to standardize ways of achieving optimum patient satisfaction to maximize the link between physical appearance and psychological well-being.