Botox is a registered trademark name given for the treatment by injection of a toxin, to treat various medical conditions, as well as cosmetic conditions including facial and neck wrinkles.
The toxin being referred to is botulinum toxin from the Clostridia bacteria.
And the way it works is by interfering with the transmission of signals from the nerve to the muscle, thereby causing the muscle to not work.
In doses given in the treatment of skin wrinkles, the effect normally lasts 3-6 months.
So the treatment may need to be repeated.
But what are the side effects?
Well, there are potentially both local (in the injection area) as well as general side effects.
The side effects of Botox includes:
Pain and bruising after the injection
A temporary facial droop, if the toxin involves more muscle than is intended
Headaches
A flu like illness
Feeling of nausea
Other rarer side effects. Some of these rarer and more severe side effects include paralysis of the body, usually due to injection of non FDA approved Botox.
In terms of the wrinkle effect, the Botox injection may need to be given more than once to achieve the desired effect.
Botox is usually given for the furros between the eyebrows, deep forehead wrinkles, deep neck lines, and crow's feet beside the eyes.
It's generally not given near the mouth as affecting muscles here would mean difficulty with speaking and eating.
The injection is given by a fine needle and anaesthesia is not needed.
But in all cases, the patient sees the specialist such as a dermatologist or plastic surgeon to decide:
1. If Botox will be effective in their situation
2. To discuss the potential benefits versus the side effects of Botox
3. To discuss how many treatments may be needed to achieve a desired effect.
4. Patient expectations of the procedure.
So there you have it.
As will all other medical procedures, there are benefits and risks involved.
Look at your various options for your anti aging regime, and learn more about them.
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