Botulinum toxin A, marketed as Botox, is a very popular means of cosmetic enhancement, perhaps because we think we look better after getting a treatment. But recent research went a step further and evaluated the effects of one’s Botox treatment based on the opinions of others.

Study participants had photos of their faces taken before and after Botox injections. Researchers then divided the photos and randomly placed each of them in two photo books. A separate group of evaluators then looked through the books, rating their first impressions on a list of criteria defined by the researchers.

So, will Botox land more dates? It appears to be true. Based on the first-impression evaluations, the after-Botox faces were ranked higher for attractiveness, athletic success, and, yes, dating success. When evaluated for financial and relationship success and social skills, there was no discernible difference between first impressions of a face photographed before or after Botox.

The research team presented their findings in Chicago today at the 2008 annual meeting of the American Academy of Otolaryngology – Head and Neck Surgery Foundation.