Botox Cosmetic

Clostridia botulinum produces a class of chemical compounds known as “toxins”. The Botulinum Type A Toxin (Botox, Allergan) is processed and purified to produce a sterile product, suitable for specific therapeutic uses. Once the diluted toxin is injected, it produces a temporary paralysis (chemodenervation) of muscle by preventing transmission of nerve impulses to muscle

In April 2002, Botox gained FDA approval for treatment of moderate-to-severe frown lines between the eyebrows – called glabellar lines. However, Botox is often used for other areas of the face as well.

Botox blocks signals from the nerves to the muscles. The injected muscle can no longer contract, which causes the wrinkles to relax and soften.

It is most often used on forehead lines, crow’s feet (lines around the eye) and frown lines. Wrinkles caused by sun damage and gravity will not respond to Botox. Some patients require more toxin because of greater muscle mass, stronger muscles, recruitment of other facial muscles outside the norm, or because of biochemical differences in humans. The first injection will test these differences until a person’s specific response is known.

BOTOX does not slow the aging process. It can, however, temporarily diminish the look of wrinkles caused by certain muscle groups. BOTOX injections can be performed alone or in conjunction with other procedures.

The procedure takes only a few minutes and no anesthesia is required. Botox is injected with a fine needle into specific muscles with only minor discomfort. It generally takes three to seven days to take full effect and it is best to avoid alcohol at least one week prior to treatment. Aspirin and anti-inflammatory medications should be stopped two weeks before treatment as well in order to reduce bruising.

The effects from Botox will last four to six months. As muscle action gradually returns, the lines and wrinkles begin to re-appear and wrinkles need to be re-treated. The lines and wrinkles often appear less severe with time because the muscles are being trained to relax. This treatment is not permanent.

Temporary bruising is the most common side effect. Headaches, which resolve in 24-48 hours, can occur, but this is rare. A small percentage of patients may develop eyelid drooping. This usually resolves in three weeks. This development is usually caused by migration of the Botox and for this reason, you shouldn’t rub the treated area for 12 hours after injection or lay down for three to four hours.

Patients who are pregnant, breastfeeding or have a neurological disease should not use Botox.

Post-treatment instructions:

• Do not touch or rub the injection site for 2-3 hours
• Remain upright and avoid rigorous exercise for 2-3 hours after the injection as this activity might allow BOTOX to migrate to unwanted areas to produce unwanted results.
• Attempt to move the muscles injected 3 times a minute for 2 hours after procedure to increase uptake of the BOTOX.

A good prognosis can be generally expected for repeated treatments.