Botox

What is BOTOX?

Botox is the brand name of a toxin produced by the bacterium Clostridium botulinum. Although in very large doses it can cause botulism (rare but serious illness that causes paralysis of muscles), Botox is safe in the doses used for cosmetic and therapeutic purposes. It has been used safely for decades in the United States. Originally Botox was used to restore a normal voice for people with a vocal chord condition called spasmodic dysphonia. It has also been used to treat eye twitches, excessive palm or armpit sweating, and headaches. In the mid 1990's, plastic surgeons began using Botox injections to treat facial wrinkles. Botox is the fastest growing cosmetic procedure in the United States. In 2001 alone, 1.6 million Americans underwent a botox procedure; a of 46% from the year before.

The Procedure

During a botox procedure, several small injections are made into the muscles where fine lines and wrinkles appear; the exact location of the injection depends of the location, size and use of the muscles.

A general procedure does not use anesthesia, although sometimes an anesthetic cream will be applied to the area to be treated.

Botox procedures typically last for about thirty minutes, with results lasting anywhere from about three to six months.

Does the injection hurt?

A very tiny needle is all that is needed for the procedure. Some patients report minor and temporary discomfort from the injection.

How Long Does a Botox Injection Last?

The effects from Botox will last four to six months. As muscle action gradually returns, the lines and wrinkles begin to re-appear and wrinkles need to be re-treated. The lines and wrinkles often appear less severe with time because the muscles are being trained to relax.

Who Should Not Receive Botox Injection?

Patients who are pregnant, breastfeeding or have a neurological disease should not use Botox. Since Botox doesn't work for all wrinkles, a consultation with a doctor is recommended.

BOTOX Risks

There is some Botox risk in that patients have experienced bruisng at the site of the injection. The most common Botox side effects following the use of BOTOX Cosmetic for glabellar lines are headache (13.3%), respiratory infection (3.5%), temporary eyelid droop (3.2%), nausea (3.0%), and flu syndrome (2.0%). Blepharoptosis is consistent with the pharmacologic action of Botox Cosmetic and may be technique related. In rare occurences Botox can spread into neighboring muscles and cause temporary paralysis. In less that 1% of patients, this can cause drooping of the eyelid.

BOTOX Costs

The price of Botox varies by region and physician and the amount of material needed. Treating crow's feet can range from $400 to $900.

BOTOX Alternatives