Botox Injections

What is Botox?

Botox is a non-invasive cosmetic procedure that is very common in the US.  The name Botox is derived from the neurotoxin protein that is fashioned after the Clostridium Bacteria(aka Botulinum Toxin). Botox is usually made into an injectable liquid medication that is to smooth out wrinkles. It is meant to reduce the risk of frown lines and wrinkles on the face - such as crows feet. Botox is also used for treating a condition known as hyperhydrosis which is surplus sweat in the underarm region and palms. It also helps in preventing patients from making expressions with their faces that would stress the facial muscles. Botox injections create a more youthful looking face.

How does Botox work?

Botox injections facilitate wrinkle reduction.  Botox is injected in the patient to prevent the facial muscles from making expressions like frowns and grimaces that adds to wrinkle growth in the face. The injection is also used to manage pain and this includes nerve pain, neck spasm and migraine headaches. Botox is also used to control excessive sweating by paralyzing the sweat glands to reduce perspiration.

Botox is a relatively safe procedure that is prescribed by qualified medical practitioners. It is safe only when certified practitioners or reputable plastic surgeons do the procedures. During the procedure toxins are injected in specific points and muscles that are determined to need the injections. The toxin is injected into the muscles that cause the wrinkles and not to the other muscles on the face. The procedure does not take more than about 10 to 15 minutes. The procedure is usually done in the surgeon’s office as an outpatient procedure, and due to the minimal time it takes to administer the injections. There is no need for anesthesia for this procedure.

It is essential that proper research is done before the administration of Botox injections. This is because the injections may have adverse side effects if not administered properly and these effects may be life threatening in some instances. It's adivisable to  discuss this with your plastic surgeon as to what the best form of the  procedure is for you prior to getting the treatment. Also ensure that you discuss your medical history with your surgeon.

How will Botox affect you?

Before results can be noticed it will take approximately 2 weeks. Most times results are seen in just a number of days though it is better to wait for two weeks. These results are usually temporary so repeated injections will have to be administered. There are some side effects that either happen just after taking the injections or a few weeks later. The side effects range from getting the flu to headaches that could last for a couple of days to maybe a few weeks. If after taking a Botox injection you have problem with speech, breathing or any other normal activity, you should seek help immediately.

Are there Alternatives for Botox?

There are alternatives for those who don’t want to go through the stress of Botox injections. These alternatives include facial fillers such as collagen injections and synthetic tissue filler injections. The collagen and synthetic injections work in similar fashion so any of the two can be used as a replacement for Botox injections.