The cosmetic form of botulinum toxin, often referred to by its product name Botox, is a popular non-surgical injection that temporarily reduces or eliminates frown lines, forehead creases, crows feet near the eyes and thick bands in the neck.
The toxin blocks the nerve impulses, temporarily paralyzing the muscles that cause wrinkles while giving the skin a smoother, more refreshed appearance.
Studies have also suggested that Botox is effective in relieving migraine headaches, excessive sweating and muscle spasms in the neck and eyes.
Botulinum Toxin Injections
Botulinum toxin injections (BOTOX), often referred to by the product name BOTOX Cosmetic is a biological toxin (botulinum toxin) transformed into a therapeutic agent.
Work with BOTOX began in the late 1960s to treat neurological disorders. Today, BOTOX is used for the treatment of frown lines, forehead furrows, "crow's feet," lines and wrinkles of the lower face, and even nasal muscles (to decrease nostril flaring).
BOTOX injections have proven to be a very popular nonsurgical cosmetic procedure.Surgeons have found that the type of lines and wrinkles that respond to BOTOX injections are those caused by the muscles-specifically those muscles that contract during facial expressions such as frowning or squinting.
Technique:
The patient is asked to contract the muscles in the area being treated so the surgeon can determine the proper location for injection. In most cases, it is injected directly into the muscle with a tiny needle. It takes a few days to realize the effect of the injections.
Benefits:
No downtime. Patients can immediately resume normal activities.
Long experience has proven BOTOX to be safe.
Treatment is reversible within several months.
May be beneficial for treatment of migraine headaches.
Other Considerations:
BOTOX injections are a temporary solution for the treatment of wrinkles. The effects last from 3-4 months and require repeat treatments.
Possible side effects include local numbness, swelling, bruising, or a burning sensation during injection. Some patients have reported temporary headache and nausea. Most complications are of short duration and can be avoided with proper injection techniques.
A small percentage of patients are reported to experience no improvement at all.
Patients who show early signs of aging, as well as those who may not be suitable candidates for more extensive aesthetic facial surgery, may be good candidates for this procedure. Certain medications (some antibiotics, anti-inflammatories, or aspirin) and even some vitamins and herbs may increase the potency of BOTOX and may increase bleeding and bruising at the time of injection.
Therefore, patients should be candid with their surgeon about all medications and supplements.
Pregnant or nursing women should postpone undergoing this procedure. It is not known whether injection of BOTOX has any effect on a foetus or whether it is found in breast milk.