Botox: a much better option!
Botox ® is a protein derived from botulinum toxin that is used to minimize or smooth out lines and wrinkles on the face. While that might sound scary, the procedure is safe and effective when performed by a Board-Certified Dermatologist. Botox ® is injected underneath the skin to relax the facial muscles temporarily, which provides a desirable result (i.e a wrinkle-free face). Because it’s considered to be a non-surgical alternative to plastic surgery, many choose Botox ® . This anti-aging treatment is offered through many doctors’ offices and some medical spas. When compared to the risks associated with cosmetic surgery, many patients choose to try Botox ® first.
Pros of Botox:
Results are achieved quickly, but can take up to 7 days for final results.
Typically Botox ® is more affordable than plastic surgery.
It is a quick and safe procedure that usually takes less than ten minutes.
No downtime or extensive recovery.
It is temporary. Your face will resume its normal appearance in 3-6 months
Less invasive than plastic surgery.
Cons of Botox:
Follow-ups: You’re expected to go for follow-up treatments because it is not a permanent cure for wrinkles.
Temporary: It is a temporary treatment, and depending on the individual, the effects last between 3-6 months.
Consistent Treatments: The patient should undergo treatment as often as every three to six months, if needed. Keep in mind that the results will begin to fade around three to six months after initial injections if not maintained consistently.
Wrinkles Reappear: Wrinkles or fine lines will slowly reappear if you decide to discontinue the treatments.
No Cosmetics: You should avoid using cosmetics for a day or so if the skin is irritated after Botox ® treatment. You can start the use of make-up as advised by your dermatologist.
The Variety of Uses for Botox ® Injections:
Why it’s Done?
Botox ® injections are also used to treat various other conditions that affect how the body functions. These may include:
Paralyze Muscle Activity: The botulinum toxin has the property to temporarily paralyze muscle activity and reduce lines and wrinkles.
Lazy eye: An imbalance in the muscles responsible for positioning the eye is the result of lazy eye. Botulinum toxin injections may help stabilize the imbalance.
Hyperhidrosis: This condition causes excessive sweating even when the climate is not hot and humid and you’re not exerting yourself. Botox ® injections can help reduce excessive sweating.
Cervical Dystonia: This is a very painful condition that causes repetitive neck spasms, where your neck muscles contract involuntarily causing the head to twist or turn into an uncomfortable position. Botox ® injections are sometimes used to treat such problems.
Muscle contractures: Cerebral palsy is a neurological condition where your limbs tend to pull in toward your center. Botox ® injections can be used to relax these contracted muscles.
Chronic migraines: People suffering from migraines for more than 15 days a month can find relief from these severe headaches.
Bladder dysfunction: An overactive bladder can cause urinary incontinence, which can be reduced by Botox ® injections.
Eye twitching: A repetitive, involuntary spasm of the eyelid is called an eyelid twitch. Botox ® injections can help relieve contraction or twitching of muscles around the eye.
Botox ® Procedures:
How You Prepare
Botox ® must only be used under a doctor’s care. Select a doctor who will be able to provide advice, explain the procedure, and let you know if it’s advisable to undergo the treatment or not, depending on your health.
It is important for you to let your doctor know if you’ve received any type of Botox ® injections within the past four months. And if you have been consuming muscle relaxants, sleeping aids or allergy medications to avoid an adverse reaction. Also, if you use blood thinner medications, you must let your doctor know. Women who are pregnant or breastfeeding, are advised to postpone Botox ® injections.
I. Before the procedure
The discomfort from the injection is tolerated well by most people. If your palms or soles are being treated, it is best to numb your skin beforehand. Topical anesthesia or ice are different ways your doctor may numb the area.
II. During the procedure
During the procedure, depending on the area that needs to be treated, the doctor uses a fine needle to inject Botox ® under the skin and into specific muscle groups. Tiny amount of Botox ® are injected into your skin or muscles through a thin needle. Depending on the extent of the area being treated and various other factors, your doctor will determine the number of injections needed.
III. After the procedure
After the procedure, you can expect to resume your normal daily activities, but make sure to take care to not rub or massage the treated areas. This can cause the Botox ® to move into a different area than the treatment site.
After Botox Treatment:
Side-Effects:
Minor Irritation: After Botox ® , expect to feel some minor irritation, similar to that of a bug bite.
Spots & Swelling: After Botox ® , which is delivered via injection, you may experience some light redness or swelling. The area where the injection is administered may appear as small red dots or bug bites, but these side effects will fade in a few hours for most people.
Patients receiving Botox ® injections will also receive post-procedure instructions from the doctor. For most people, post-care directions include not touching the injected area, avoid lying down for a certain amount of time, and resting for a day or so if needed. Patients will receive specific aftercare directions designed to minimize discomfort and maximize results.
Since the treatment is temporary, these inconveniences don’t last long. It’s important that injections be placed precisely to avoid side effects. Botox ® therapy can be dangerous if it’s administered incorrectly. Ask for a referral from your primary care doctor or look for a doctor who specializes in your condition with experience in administering Botox ® treatments.
Results:
You should expect Botox ® injections to begin to work in a few days after treatment. Based on your issue being treated, the effect may last three months or longer. Regularly scheduled follow-up injections are necessary to maintain the effect.
Associated Dermatologists: Birmingham | Trussville
205.853.3960