Beauty Doc Blog

September 10.08

Everyone is talking about Botox but what exactly is it?  How does Botox work and are there any risks involved with this non-surgical cosmetic procedure?

In 2002, FDA approved the cosmetic use of Botox to get rid of facial lines and wrinkles.  By 2005, over 3.9 million Botox treatments were given in the United States.  Botox is commonly used as an anti-wrinkle method for frown lines, forehead furrows and crow’s feet.  Botox reduces the appearance of wrinkles by about 80 percent.

Wrinkles are made when nerve cells in the muscles under the skin release the chemical acetylcholine, triggering the muscle contraction creating wrinkles.  Formally known as Botulinum Toxin Type A, Botox is injected under the skin to disrupt the release of acethlcholine.  This paralizes the muscles to stop the contraction causing wrinkling.  The results appear within one week after a Botox treatment and last for at least three months.  Most patients are between the ages of 35 and 65.  Results are temporary and patients can get additional injections for long-term treatment.

Botox injections are non-surgically and typically administered in a doctor’s office without anesthesia.  A numbing cream may be applied topically and patients may feel slightly uncomfortable from the injection.  Injection points are marked with a pencil and antiseptic is applied. The procedure takes anywhere from a few minutes to around 20 minutes.  Patients are usually allowed to return home after a Botox treatment.

While side effects from Botox treatments are uncommon, there are a few common side effects experienced by some patients including nausea, flu-like symptoms, headache and redness or pain near the injection areas.  Some patients may have muscle weakness or their upper eyelid muscles might droop, which usually clears up within a few days.  Usually doctors advise patients to stay out of the sun and report unusual pain or symptoms immediately.  Patients should not smoke before or right after Botox injections.  If patients are taking medications, their doctor should be informed prior to the Botox treatment.

Sometimes patients have other procedures to minimize the effects of aging along with the Botox injections including microdermabrasion, a chemical peel or laser skin resurfacing.  A consultation with a certified plastic surgeon helps patients understand the procedures, their risks and how to achieve their goals.

Botox is a safe, popular way to minimize the lines and wrinkles that naturally form with aging, exercise and sun exposure.