Botox is a form of botulinum toxin.

Introduction:




Botox is a form of botulinum toxin.

Cosmetic physicians have been using botox for years to

successfully treat wrinkles. Botox is the brand name of a toxin

produced by the bacterium clostridium botulinum. This can be used for

both men and women. We associate this toxin taken in large amounts with

food poisoning. Inspite of serious complications associated with botox,

scientists have discovered a way to put it to the use for humans. Small

diluted amounts can be directly injected into the area which causes

controlled weakening of the muscles.




In 1980's the FDA approved the usage of botox when it was discovered

that it could stop ailments like blinking and lazy eye. Since then

cosmetic physicians have been using botox to successfully treat

wrinkles and reduce the frown lines, forehead creases, crowsfeet near

the eyes and thick bands in the neck we have also come to know that

botox reduces migraine headaches, excessive sweating and muscles spasms

in the neck and the eyes. It is also used for other areas of the face

as well.




Patients who are pregnant should not use botox. Botox is available as

"single-use" vials which means that vial of botox is meant for the use

of single patient during one session completed within four hours.




Procedure:


Botox blocks signals from nerves to the muscles. The injected muscles

can no longer contract; usually it is used on forehead lines, crow's

feet (lines around eyes) and frown lines. Botox will not respond to

wrinkles caused by sun.




The procedure will only take a few minutes without anesthesia. Botox is

injected with a fine needle into the spot, slight pain, resembling an

insect bite may occur. During the procedure there is usually no pain.

The patient may return to her/his own work on the same day. But care

must be taken to keep the head upright and not to massage the injected

area.




It generally takes three to seven days to take full effect. It is best

to avoid alcohol during this period. Aspirin and anti-inflammatory

drugs should be stopped two weeks before treatment.




Effects of botox injections:




When ever we go in for either a surgery or botox injections there are

always risks and side effects present. It is always compulsory to

discuss the pros and cons with your surgeon. First tell them what your

symptoms are.




1. Temporary bruising is the most common side effect.


2. Head aches which lead to eyelid drooping which

usually resolves in three weeks. This development occurs due to the

migration of the botox so avoid rubbing the treated area for 12 hours

after injection. Also avoid lying down for hours.


3. The treatment is safe when carried by trained

professionals. Besides only very small quantities of botox is given

intravenously. The FDA recommends a frequency of once in three months

with lowest effective dose.


4. It may develop new wrinkles as the result of the

treatment. Due to temporary paralysis of the targeted muscles the

neighboring muscles compensate in the production of new wrinkles.