Botox is a great nonsurgical treatment for wrinkles and fine lines. But what is it exactly?
Botox is a derivative of Clostridium Botulinum. It was originally created to help treat patients with muscle spasms. More specifically, eye spasms and eye twitching. However, it wasn’t long before doctors noticed how the injections diminished fine lines around the eyes as well.
Now Botox is one of the most common anti-aging procedures out there. Still, myths abound regarding its safety and side effects. If you’re considering Botox, read on to learn the truth.
Botox is toxic
The truth is Botox is a protein and neurotoxin. A negative outcome could result only if a lethal amount were administered. While large amounts of Clostridium Botulinum can cause botulism, the minuscule amount of Botox that is injected in the muscle for cosmetic reasons is incapable of getting into the central nervous system and causing damage. Remember, Botox is FDA approved. Just as with any other medication, only an excessive amount can prove dangerous.
Botox is painful
The truth is many patients are surprised by what little discomfort there actually is. A very tiny needle is used to administer Botox and of course, having a board certified plastic surgeon or dermatologist perform the injection offers the best outcome. A fear of needles shouldn’t hold you back. The whole procedure usually takes about 5 minutes and most patients report barely feeling the injections.
Botox can cause excessive swelling, redness and bruising
Individual patients’ reactions to Botox injections vary but the truth is side effects are mild and temporary. The site of each injection can look a little pink and swollen for about 15 to 20 minutes before subsiding. Occasionally a patient may bruise from a treatment – a possibility any time a needle is introduced into the skin – so it is advisable to stop taking aspirin or any other blood thinners a few days prior to treatment. In most cases, patients resume their normal schedule immediately following their appointment.
Botox is the cure for all facial wrinkles
The truth is Botox is most effective treating “movement” wrinkles – the crinkles and crow’s feet that appear at the corner of your eyes when you smile, the crease between them when you frown or the lines on your forehead when you raise your brows. For static wrinkles, or deeper, “wrinkles at rest” – volume fillers such Juvederm or Restylane will likely do a better job. The good news is they can be used in conjunction with Botox.
Botox robs your face of expression
You’ve heard all the jokes. Maybe even seen a few faces yourself sporting that “frozen” look everyone thinks can only be traced back to Botox treatments. The truth is if Botox is administered correctly and by a skilled professional, you’ll have no trouble making facial expressions. Perhaps the frozen faces you see are due to over injecting. It may even be the result of a botched full face lift!
At the Skin and Beauty Center, rest assured you’ll receive only the most skilled care should you decide to embark upon a Botox treatment program. Why not avail yourself of this excellent anti-aging fighting tool today?