Cohort study on patient response to botulinum toxin cosmetic therapy.

Summary Background  Botulinum toxin (BTX) therapy is currently the most popular cosmetic procedure in the United States. However, few studies exist regarding post-procedure perceptions of the patients’ BTX therapy. Objective  The aim of this cohort study was to determine patients’ responses from pre- to post-BTX treatment experience. Methods and materials  One hundred twenty-three BTX patients of six different dermatologic cosmetic practices in various boroughs of New York and Long Island in the state of New York completed the questionnaire. Six hundred eighty-three surveys were sent out, and 123 completed surveys were obtained. Numerous questions were asked regarding how patients felt and responded towards the overall procedure of their BTX therapy. Results  Eighty-eight percent of patients were satisfied or extremely satisfied with their dermatologists. Sixty-five percent of patients felt over 60% improvement in areas treated. Fifty-eight percent of patients anticipated making repeat visits, whereas the biggest concern for returning was due to the expensive cost of BTX. Conclusion  Our study correlated with previous studies done on retention rate of BTX cosmetic patients and satisfaction level on areas treated. The cost of BTX remained one of the primary concerns for repeat visits. Most patients were happy with their visits to the dermatology offices for BTX procedure, although things can be done to further enhance their visits and the likelihood that they will return.