Botox is quite possibly the perfect drug out there. It works, it is safe, and if you do not like it the results are temporary. Botox is a protein derived from a bacteria that help with wrinkles. It does so by temporary blocking the message from the nerves to the muscles, resulting in relaxing of the muscle. This is a temporary effect and most people regain control of their muscles within 3 to 5 months.
Botox had been used for cosmetic purposes even before it received FDA approval. It has an excellent safety profile and is recommended for use between the age of 18 to 65 for cosmeticpurposes.
Botox is effective for dynamic wrinkles, meaning lines visible with expression. Wrinkle which are etched or set in may soften from Botox administration but will still be present. Ove time Botox has a preventative effect. In addition, people who have been using Botox for many years do not require it as often to maintain the results.
Botox is FDA approved for the glabellar region which is the area between the eyebrows. People refer to the lines as “elevens” and it gives the owner an angry, tiredlook. However Botox can be used in almost any location where there are muscles and is even utilzied to control excessive sweating in areas such as the underarms. Otherareas Botox can be injected include crow’s feet, forehead wrinkles, peri-oral wrinkles, neck bands. Botox is even utilzied for medical problems such as migraines, back pain, cervical dystonias, after stroke, and swallowing disorders to name a few.
Botox should be injected by a practitioner versed in anatomy of the injection site. While health care professionals other than physicians can inject Botox, always ask the credentials for the injector. The injections are relatively painless as a very small thin needle is employed. It can be likened to tiny pin pricks or mosquito bites. Common side effects include minor red bumps at injection site, and bruising. Some people may even experience headaches following Botox injections. It is also important to realize that Botox can worsen facial asymmetry. The left side of the face is not exactly the same as the right side of the face. Therefore a good practitioner will often require follow up in 7 to10 days to assess for more injection. The results from Botox are typically realized at this time although few percentage can see results before or after this period.
A droopy eyelid can occur especially if the Botox is injected too closely to the upper eyelid. While it is a potential complication it is usual due to improper technique. Other complications include double vision, difficulty swallowing, or difficulty breathing. This is rare in the setting of use of Botox for cosmetic reasons and is more likely when Botox is injected into the neck or large units of the preparation are required.
Botox is contraindicated in those with a prior allergic reaction, during pregnancy and breast feeding, or presence of neuromuscular conditions such as myastheniagravis or multiple sclerosis. Age is a relative contraindication and caution should be advised under 18 and over 65.
Botox is quite safe and effective if performed by a qualified injected. At Ethos Spa in Summit, NJ only board certified physicians inject Botox. We also have plastic surgeons whouse Botox for more advanced cosmetic techniques.
