Botox is a popular injectable medicine which helps in the reduction of facial wrinkles. It is primarily used in the upper face as an effective and non-surgical option for treating wrinkles in the forehead area and around the eyes. First introduced in 2002, it is generically known as Botulinum toxin.
How does it work?
It needs to be administered by a healthcare professional, essentially an injectable specialist. When it has been safely and properly injected into the facial muscles, it works by temporarily paralyzing the nerve impulse to the targeted muscles, which in turn limit their activity. This relaxes the underlying muscles, giving the overlying skin a smoother appearance. It is mostly used in treating wrinkles and fine lines which have been caused by the underlying muscle activity. It usually occurs in the forehead and brow region.
What you should know before undergoing the treatment?
There are certain basic points which apply to all before undergoing a Botox treatment. Firstly, you should avoid taking any blood-thinning medications like aspirin or Mortin for at least ten days before the treatment. Secondly, you understand that the effects of this treatment are temporary and can generally last up to four months approximately. Thirdly, if you are pregnant or breastfeeding then you can’t undergo the treatment.
When will the results become apparent?
You will typically start to see the results within 48 hours of the injections, but it may take up to four days for the full effect to set in. if in your case the lines or wrinkles which are being treated are rather deep, then it may take up to 4 weeks for the skin to completely relax.
What is the advice given to the patients after the treatment?
Once you’ve undergone the Botox treatment you should not lay down for at least two hours. Any strenuous activity or exercise needs to avoid for the rest of the day. If you feel that it is difficult to move or contract the muscles in the injected area, then you don’t need to worry as it is to be expected. However, minor movement may still be possible.
What are the other uses of Botox?
Apart from treating wrinkles and fine lines, Botox can be used to treat varied issues like migraines, sweaty palms, teeth grinding (bruxism), excessive underarm perspiration (hyperhidrosis). It has also been approved as a preventive treatment for adults who suffer from Chronic migraine and get headaches for 15 days or more per month, which lasts for four hours a day or longer.
What are the potential complications that could arise?
There is a very small risk of complications when the treatment is performed by a trained and experienced injector. Complications usually do occur when there is an overuse of the product or a misplaced injection. These two factors can result in more muscle freezing than intended or freezing of muscles in an unintended place. Temporary bruising and swelling at the site of injection, headache and flu-like symptoms are other potential side-effects.
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