Meet Dr. Jean Carruthers
MD, FRCSC, FRC (OPHTH)
Dr. Jean Carruthers is a globally recognized pioneer in cosmetic surgery and non-invasive aesthetic procedures, with unparalleled expertise in both research and clinical practice. Together with her husband, Dr. Alastair Carruthers, she revolutionized the cosmetic industry by pioneering the use of botulinum A exotoxin (“Botox”), a treatment that has since become the most widely performed cosmetic procedure worldwide.
As a highly sought-after keynote speaker, Dr. Carruthers has delivered thousands of presentations at prestigious conferences such as the American Academy of Dermatology and the American Society of Dermatologic Surgery. Her influence extends across global stages, where she continues to shape the future of cosmetic medicine.
Dr. Carruthers’ insights have been featured in leading publications like Vogue, Time, Newsweek, Allure, and The New York Times, as well as on platforms like 20/20 and TedTalk. A true thought leader, she has authored over 300 peer-reviewed publications, 70 book chapters, and 9 textbooks, solidifying her position as a foremost authority in her field.
Her groundbreaking contributions have earned her numerous prestigious awards and accolades, and she is also a Clinical Professor in the Department of Ophthalmology at the University of British Columbia in Vancouver, where she continues to inspire the next generation of physicians.
The Botox Discovery
In September 1987, the world of dermatology stumbled across botulinum toxin by accident.
In the early 80s, Dr Jean was one of the first doctors to use Botox for medical purposes in Canada, using it to treat blepharospasm, a condition that causes facial muscle spasms that force eyelids shut.
One day, one of Jean’s patients became angry that her forehead was not being injected. “But your forehead isn’t spasming,” Jean responded. “When you inject my forehead,” the patient said, “my wrinkles go away.”
She went home that night and said to her husband, dermatologist Dr Alastair Carruthers, “You know, I think I have something for your cosmetic frown line patients.”
The next day, Dr Jean talked her receptionist into being the first volunteer subject for the cosmetic use of botulinum toxin, getting Botox to treat a deep wrinkle between her eyebrows… and becoming Drs Jean and Alastair’s first test subject for evaluating Botox’s effect on wrinkles.
The first cosmetic Botox study began in 1987 and wasn’t published until 1991. It took 5 years for Drs Jean and Alastair to find 18 patients who were willing to participate! The only way to get patients was to have Jean volunteer her face as proof the procedure was safe and effective, having Alastair inject her… and thus inspiring her iconic quote: “I haven’t frowned since 1987”.
Since then, Botox has grown to be the most commonly performed cosmetic procedure in the world.
Book a Free Consultation
Thinking about cosmetic treatment or have any skincare questions?
We offer complimentary 20 minute virtual consultations with Dr Jean Carruthers. This dedicated one-on-one time allows you to address your aesthetic concerns and receive tailored recommendations to reach your goals, and to have your questions answered by one of the leading cosmetics experts in the world.
