Injectables / Botox
What Is Botox?
Botulinum toxin or Botox is a cosmetic injection that blocks the nerve signals that cause muscles to contract. Instead of contracting, the muscles stay relaxed which means absence of wrinkles. It is the most popular nonsurgical procedure in the world. Botox received FDA approval in 2002 for cosmetic treatment aimed at enhancing the youthful appearance of the face by eliminating wrinkles and fine lines. Given in the form of injections by qualified and trained surgeons, Botox is used to treat many conditions such as:
- Smoothening out of wrinkles, crow’s feet, frown lines
- Reducing underarm and hands sweating
- Treating chronic migraine headaches
- Treating muscle spasticity or uncontrolled blinking known as blepharospasm
You May Consider Botox If…
- Deep lines between your eyes make you look tired, angry, sad, or upset.
- Your facial expressions cause wrinkles in and around your eyes and forehead.
- There is asymmetry in your eyebrows or face that can be corrected by relaxing a muscle.
- You suffer from chronic migraines and botulinum toxin may provide relief from this condition.
- You have hyperhidrosis or excessive underarm or hands sweating.
What Does The Procedure Involve?
Botox injections have to be administered by a qualified medical professional. The procedure begins with an initial consultation where the outcomes and expectations are discussed. The injections and the amount of Botox needed are determined by the medical professional. After administration into the problem areas, the movement of the muscles in that area is frozen by the toxin. Botulinum toxin injections can be completed on the same day as the initial consultation. The injections themselves take a few minutes to administer and there is no requirement of a general or local anesthetic.
FAQs
Depending on your age, skin condition and habits, effects of botulinum toxin could last anywhere from three to six months.
The results are visible within 5 to 7 days. Dr. Aboumoussa may ask you to follow up to review the response to Botox injections.
Depending on the extent of wrinkles and the areas that need to be treated, patients may need to visit two to three times a year. The results last between four to six months. Since each individual responds differently, the medical professional is the best person to advise on the required number of treatments in a year.
After the injections you can return to your regular activities immediately; however, strenuous activity is discouraged for the remainder of the day. Redness and swelling that occur at the time of injection usually resolve quickly. Any bruising that might occur will usually resolve over a week or two.
Slight bruising and a minor headache are common side effects that subside within a day or two. Few people could experience eyelid or eyebrow droops which also resolves in two to three weeks. Allergic reactions are very rare and not commonly encountered. When a qualified and experienced medical professional administers the injections, most other problems are not witnessed.
Dr. Joseph uses the industry-leader American brand Allergan Botox.