What is Botox?

Botox is mostly known for its use in minimizing the affect of aging. It is a popular minimally invasive treatment for reducing crow's feet and frown lines. It is an effective treatment for both men and women.

Botox is made from the same bacterium that causes botulism. It works by temporarily paralyzing the facial muscles that lie just below the skin. Once injected, it blocks the transmission of nerve impulses to move the muscles. Reduced muscle activity causes a reduction in the severity of lines around the eyes and forehead.

It normally takes 3-4 days to see changes in appearance. Results will continue to improve for up to a month. This is a temporary treatment and for most patients results last for up to four months. Discontinuing injections will cause muscles to gradually return the state they were in prior to injections.

When deciding to get Botox injections it is important to find a licensed professional who is familiar with working with facial aesthetics like a plastic surgeon or dermatologist. Since the serum is injected into the muscles that affect facial expression, it is important for the healthcare provider to be familiar with facial aesthetics and facial anatomy. For best results seek a doctor who is experienced in Botox injections.

Botox patients may experience mild side effects including temporary drooping eyelids, muscle weakness, tenderness at the injection sites, nausea, and light bruising. Most side affects go away in 2-3 days. Possible allergic reactions may include hives, difficulty breathing, and swelling of the face, lips, tongue or throat. Call a doctor immediately if you experience any of these symptoms.

Before taking Botox injections discuss any other medications you are taking. Also divulge any over the counter medications, vitamins/minerals, herbs or medications prescribed by other doctors and do not start taking any new medications without consulting your Botox physician.

People with ALS, myasthenia gravis, Lambert-Eaton syndrome or heart disease should not use Botox. Expectant mothers or mothers who are nursing should not use Botox as its effects on unborn and nursing babies have not been documented.

Botox treatment is one of the most inexpensive alternatives to plastic surgery. Its costs are comparable to teeth whitening, hair coloring and chemical peels. Costs will be relative to expectations from the procedure.

Although Botox is most well known for its success in reducing frown lines, crow's feet and minimizing facial wrinkling, Botox is also useful in treating migraines, incontinence and excessive sweating in many patients. It has also been beneficial in the treatment of uncontrollable eye twitching, crossed eyes, and cervical dystonia.