Botox

What is Botox?

Botox is a protein made from Botulinum toxin, which the bacterium Clostridium botulinum (C. botulinum) produces. This is the same toxin that causes botulism.
Yes, Botox is a toxin, but when doctors use it correctly and in small doses, it can have benefits.

Cosmetic botulinum toxin therapy, aka neurotoxin injectables, works to help diminish the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles by paralyzing the muscles underneath.

Botulinum toxin is extremely dangerous. However, when appropriately used in a therapeutic context, it is safe and has few side effects.

Manufacturers make Botox injections with very small doses of Botulinum toxin.

Cosmetic Uses

The primary use of Botox is reducing the appearance of facial wrinkles.

According to the American Board of Cosmetic Surgery, Botox injections are the most popular cosmetic procedure nationwide.

The effects are temporary, lasting 3–12 months, depending on the type of treatment.

How often can you get Botox injections?

Although Botox is effective at temporarily blocking the communication of nerves, it is just that: temporary.

Months after the treatment, you will start to notice the return of old facial wrinkles. The wrinkles will, however, become less pronounced with regular treatment.

The number of units that are used is just one aspect that affects the results of your treatment. The results will wear off more quickly if a smaller amount is injected into the target area.

During your initial treatment, to see how well the treatment works on you, we will start you with a low dose. If the response is positive, we may increase the dosage.

As the effects typically last around three to four months, it is usually okay to receive a follow-up treatment within this window.

Risks & Side Effects

Like most injections, Botox can be slightly painful, especially between the eyebrows.

Every drug has side effects, and Botox is no exception. People generally tolerate injections well, and side effects are uncommon.

However, depending on the reason for the injections and the person’s response, Botulinum toxin can cause some unwanted effects, including:

– dry eye, following cosmetic uses
– an upset stomach
– numbness
– mild pain, swelling, or bruising around the injection site
– a headache
– temporary eyelid drooping
– temporary unwanted weakness or paralysis in nearby muscles
– a worsening of neuromuscular disorders
– cardiovascular events, such as arrhythmia and myocardial infarction

People should not use Botox if they have:

– a sensitivity or allergy to it
– an infection at the injection site

Depending on the type of treatment, there are concerns that the effects may extend beyond the injection site, possibly leading to symptoms such as difficulty breathing.

For more information on Botox treatments, call our Elyria, OH office. We will be more than happy to set you up with a free consultation to see if medical cosmetic treatments will work for you.

440-597-5353