As people approach their early middle age, they often begin to notice the formation of lines and wrinkles around their eyes and mouth. While they may not be in need of serious reconstructive surgery, it may boost their self image to fill in those newly formed lines and wrinkles. A Botox treatment is a safe and effective way to do that.
What Is It?
Botox is the brand name for the neurotoxic protein used in the injections. Basically, this is a purified form of botulinum, which occurs from the bacterium Clostridium Botulinum. In large doses, this can cause a rare parslytic condition and is sometimes associated with food poisoning. In small injections, it can help those with wrinkles and lines smooth the skin on their face.
When injected, it creates a controlled weakening of the muscles. The substance creates a blockage of the nerve impulses, relaxing the contracted muscles. And as a result, the appearance of lines and wrinkles are diminished.
Botox Cosmetic, an online resource on Botox, points out that Botox is the only botulinum toxin approved by the FDA. It is approved for use for people ages 18 to 65. The treatments take about 10 minutes and results are typically visible in 2 to 4 days.
Who Needs It?
People with a desire to fix cosmetic issues of the face are candidates for Botox. Many people just see subtle changes instead of a dramatic change in their appearance. Botox offers this, and leaves a person looking like a slightly younger, improved version of what they remember. In addition to improved physical appearance, a study published in Dermatological Surgery found that those suffering from depression who received Botox injections for their face saw their symptoms of depression fade.
Botox has a variety of other medical uses as well. Those suffering from minor eye conditions such as uncontrolled blinking and lazy eye may find Botox helps relieve their symptoms. Doctors have also used the injections to treat cervical dystonia, writer’s cramp, excessive sweating, and a variety of chronic pain issues including migraine headaches, as well as overactive bladder and enlarged prostate.
Benefits
One main benefit of using Botox for cosmetic purposes is the fact it is less invasive than a traditional facelife. The results are immediate and there is no need to spend days or weeks bandaged up while recovering, as one would following a facelift. The swelling from Botox injections is usually gone within a day or two.
The results of the injection typically last for 4 to 6 months. While its impermanency may dissuade some people, others have no problem returning to the dermatologist twice a year for updated injections. They even find that, over time, the appearance of the wrinkles become less severe. Some may find Botox offers better results than a traditional facelift. Patients in their 30s typically enjoy the best results. The website Medical News Today, an online health resource, recommends a combination of Botox and a minor facelift for those in their 40s, for the best result.
Risks
While Botox is approved by the FDA and is considered safe, a number of minor and major risks may be associated with the procedure. Before undergoing the procedure, speak with your doctor about personal risks and potential side effects. Those who are taking antibiotics or women who are pregnant or nursing are advised to hold off on their injections. The antibiotic could interfere with the injection, causing an allergic reaction.
Minor side effects of Botox injections include droopy eyelids, muscle weakness, difficulty swallowing, nausea, pain, indigestion or heartburn, tooth problems, and hypertension. Each of these side effects occurs in about 1% to 3% of patients and is usually not a serious sign of any reaction. About 2% to 10% of the population of Botox patients may experience cough, flu-like symptoms, dizziness, dry mouth, backaches, drowsiness, anxiety, sore throat, or bleeding at the injection site. Again, these are not necessarily serious. But be prepared and speak with your doctor about the potential for reactions.
Some may find they are allergic to the injections. Signs of an allergic reaction include rash, hives, unexplained swelling for a great than expected period of time, wheezing, itching, and difficulty breathing or swallowing. Note that some of these reactions are similar to a typical mild reaction to the treatment. But if persistent, it may indicate your body cannot handle the injections.
Serious side effects do sometimes occur. Be sure to contact your physician immediately should there be any signs of chest pain, speech problems, double vision, or dry eyes. Those receiving Botox injections for medical purposes, as opposed to cosmetic treatment, are typically more prone to serious side effects.
Those who are concerned with the havoc aging can place on your appearance may be pleased with the results of Botox injections. While those looking for major cosmetic change may desire a complete facelift, anyone who wants a simple boost and the ability to fill in a few lines which “weren’t there a few years ago” may find Botox is the right choice for them. Safe and effective, Botox may be your answer in your search for the fountain of youth.
The information in the article is not intended to substitute for the medical expertise and advice of your healthcare provider. We encourage you to discuss any decisions about treatment or care with an appropriate healthcare provider.
