Dip Into the “Fountain of Youth” With Botox Treatments

Since its FDA approval and introduction in 2002, Botox treatments have quickly become the most popular cure for deep-set frown lines, furrowed brows, crow’s feet, and other signs of aging. Due largely to the low cost, convenience, and long-lasting results of the procedure, well over 4 million people in the U.S. chose Botox treatments in 2007.

What is Botox?

Botox is composed of a sterile form of botulinum toxin, which is injected under the skin to deaden the nerve endings that cause wrinkles. The toxin inhibits the release of the chemical acetylcholine – the chemical that causes the facial muscles to contract. Once those muscles are chemically paralyzed by the Botox, they do not pinch the skin and cause wrinkles to form.

Although Botox is made from a deadly toxin, the injections are safe. The toxin itself is extracted from live bacteria, but no live bacteria are injected into the skin. Thus, there is no chance of contracting botulism.

Botox is a chemical blocker and not an injectable filler. Because of this, Botox is not the best treatment for many wrinkle lines. Sun-damaged skin and other wrinkles that are not caused by neuromuscular contraction are better treated with injectable fillers like collagen or Restylane.

The Procedure

The number of injections necessary depends on the area being treated. Crow’s feet may only take from two to five injections while a furrowed brow (glabellar lines) could take eight to ten injections. Treatment sessions typically take ten to fifteen minutes.

There is virtually no down time after a Botox treatment. You can resume normal activities as soon as you leave the physician’s office. You will be advised not to rub or massage the treated area, as this could cause the injected material to spread to other areas. Complete results are seen after a few days, and last up to six months. Re-injections are necessary to maintain your new fresh appearance. Cosmetic Botox injections should be given no more than once every three months.

Like all medical treatment, Botox does have potential side effects. Some of these may include:

· Pain

· Redness

· Bruising

· Headache

· Nausea

· Ptosis (drooping of upper eyelid)