by Dr. Steve E. Abraham

n a recent monologue on his Tonight Show, host Jay Leno joked about a John Kerry visit with elderly Florida voters: “He finally got a chance to see what he’d look like without Botox.”

Botox injections are advertised everywhere. They remove unwanted wrinkles, crow’s-feet and frown lines, for a more youthful appearance. The results are temporary and patients need to return for more treatments every three to six months.

Botox is another name for botulism toxin A, which is related to botulism. Yes, we’re speaking of the famed food poisoning. Botulism’s worst symptom is paralysis and it can be fatal. Once injected into the face, Botox attaches itself to nerve endings. It blocks the signals that would normally tell your facial muscles to contract. If the area in the face is unable to move it cannot wrinkle.

The injections cost from $250 - $400 but doctors who are able to treat a large group of people offer a better discount.

Since the FDA gave its approval for Botox in 2002, a new social venue, the Botox Party, has been invented. In Manhattan, Dr. Joseph Eviatar, an ocular plastic surgeon at Chelsea Eye Associates, administers Botox injections at parties. Recently Eviatar related, “The guests....fill out medical history and consent forms. I take them into another room to meet with them privately and give them Botox injections.” According to Eviatar, alcohol is only served after procedures are completed.

Dermatologist Dr. Jim Baral, of the American Dermatology Center, on Central Park South, says that Botox is the number one treatment requested by celebrities. Cindy Crawford and Gisele Bundchen are among his clients, but we don't know if he gives them Botox. Receiving the full benefits of the botulism shots can take anywhere from a few hours to a few days, following which the contractions in the face are reduced or eliminated completely, leaving a smooth and more youthful facial expression. It is only recommended for those younger than 65.

The American Academy of Dermatology is not promoting the use of Botox at parties. They see the trend as being potentially dangerous. But chances are you won't die from a Botox overdose: it would take 3,500 units of botox to kill an average-weight adult, the equivalent of 35 vials of 100 units each. But you could get an infection from a botched injection.

Some physicians feel that creating a party atmosphere when receiving the Botox injection reduces the pressure and fear patients may experience. So, to be sure, the popularity of these events will continue to grow.

So sit back, enjoy the smoked salmon, chat with your friends, and wait for your name to be called. If you’re the host for one of these parties, you’ll likely get your treatment done for half the price. Eat your heart out, Tupperware lady...

For additional information try www.beautylook.com

Dr. Steve E. Abraham, Podiatrist, has an office at 425 Grand Street, 212-475- 5540