Botox Injections – What They Can Do

 
by Jane Villardo

Botulinum toxin type A is used as a non-surgical cosmetic treatment for wrinkles and facial lines in individuals from 18 to 65 years old. Manufactured and marketed by the pharmaceutical company Allergan in an injectable form under the commercial trade name Botox, it is becoming increasingly popular. Botox injections have been proven to be generally safe and effective in reducing facial lines.

Botox injections work by blocking the release of acetylcholine (a chemical neurotransmitter that relays messages from the brain to various parts of the body) between the nerve endings and muscle fibres at the injection site, thereby rendering the muscles of the targeted area unable to contract. Since wrinkles are caused primarily by repetitive movements of the muscles, the muscles' inability to contract reduces the incidence of wrinkles.

Botox injections can be administered by any licensed healthcare provider. However, it is best to have it done by a cosmetic procedure specialist such as a dermatologist or a plastic surgeon. Choosing a medical practitioner who has expert knowledge of facial anatomy and good experience in administering Botox will ensure that you get the best possible results from the treatments.

Prior to treatments, an assessment is made to determine the spots where medication is to be applied. Botox injections are then administered in minute quantities to the muscles of these predetermined regions. The injection spots are selected based on the individual's ability to move the muscles at a particular area. A Botox treatment session typically lasts for about 10 minutes.

The reduction of facial lines and wrinkles usually begin to occur within a week after receiving Botox injections. This effect lasts up to four months. Facial lines and wrinkles slowly re-emerge as the effect of Botox wears off. To maintain the effects achieved with the treatments, Botox injections need to be repeated every four months. With repeated treatments, the effects of Botox will last longer because of the resultant thinning of the muscles.

Botox treatments have several possible adverse effects in individuals. Nausea, squint/double vision, twitching of the eye, facial pain, redness at the injection site, muscle weakness, headaches, flu-like symptoms, and temporary eyelid droop may result from receiving Botox injections. Not all who undergo Botox treatments experience adverse effects; most do not go through any of these possible side effects at all.

An individual's suitability for cosmetic Botox treatment is first established through a screening process. This is because there are conditions that preclude the use of Botox. Neurological conditions, infection at the site where Botox injections are to be administered, allergy to any component of Botox, and pregnancy are all contraindications. The general physical condition of the individual is also taken into consideration, along with any medication currently being administered to the individual.

There are alternative methods for the reduction of facial lines and wrinkles available to those who can not have Botox injections. A qualified medical practitioner can provide advice on a suitable method. The choices include chemical peeling, collagen injections, dermabrasion, laser resurfacing, fat implants, and AHA (alpha hydroxyl acids) treatments.

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