What is Botulinum toxin or BOTOX?
Botulinum toxin is a neuromodulator protein created from a naturally occurring bacterium called Clostridium botulinum, which when injected into the muscle relaxes the muscle imbalance and is primarily used to treat fine wrinkles. BOTOX by Allergan is the most commonly known brand. Dysport, Xeomin and Stunnox are other botulinum toxin available. They differ in the number of units required and the pricing.
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How does it work?
Botox works by blocking the nerve signals to prevent the treated muscles from contracting, allowing the skin to remain smooth and unwrinkled.
What areas can be treated with it?
It can be used for treating: frown lines, forehead lines, crows feet, brow lift, bunny lines, softening the dimpling of the chin, slimming the face and for platysmal bands.
It is also used in of excessive sweating and migraine as well. Book a consultation
What happens during the procedure of Botulinum toxin/BOTOX?
Botulinum toxin or Botox is injected with a very fine hypodermic needle into the muscle to be relaxed. It is a lunch time procedure and you can return to work right after the appointment.
Does it hurt?
Botox treatments are quick and are not considered painful. There might be minimal discomfort during the injection process, but it subsides right after. Though patients are able to tolerate it, a topical anaesthetic cream and icing can be done.
When will I see the results?
Every patient is different, usually the results can be seen in 3 to 7 days after the injection. For few, it may take upto 2 weeks.
How long does the effect of botox last?
Typically you can expect the results of Botox to last from 3 to 6 months. The results depend on the amount of botox injected, age, skin elasticity and wrinkle depth.
Does it need to be repeated?
Its effects last for 4 to 6 months. You should wait for at least 4 months before getting injected again. With repeat treatment for lines and wrinkles, the muscle may thin, leading to longer-lasting results.
Is it safe?
Botox is FDA-approved as a safe treatment for reversing wrinkles. Patients who are pregnant, breastfeeding or have certain neurological diseases should not receive Botox treatment.
What are the possible side effects of botulinum toxin?
Side effects if any, tend to be mild and temporary. After receiving injections, people can experience:
- Swelling
- Redness
- Soreness
- Bruising
- Mild headache (uncommon)
- Weakness in a neighbouring muscle, leading to a temporarily droopy brow or eyelid (rare)
- Signs and symptoms of botulism, including problems breathing, swallowing, or speaking (very rare)
Do’s and don’ts after botox?
- Remain upright for 4 hours after injection
- Do not receive facial/ laser treatments or microdermabrasion after Botox injections for at least 10 days.
- Don’t exaggerate facial expressions in injected areas for 2-3 hours after injection.
- Do not wear a headband or hat if you have had injections between the brows or in the forehead
- Don’t bend over
- Refrain from exercise for 24 hours following injections. Walking is alright.
- Do not massage or manipulate injected areas for 24 hours after injections. Washing your face is fine.
- Botulinum toxin will gradually take effect over 24-72 hours with an optimum result at 2 weeks.
- Schedule a follow-up appointment 2 weeks after your injection.
What is the safety record for this procedure?
Botox is an FDA-approved treatment and has been there for more than 20 years. If you are under the care of a qualified and experienced dermatologist, it is unlikely you will experience any untoward effect.
What to tell your dermatologist?
- All the medications you take
- All herbs, vitamins, minerals
- If you are pregnant or planning a pregnancy
- Previously done cosmetic procedures or surgeries
Questions to ask before the procedure?
- Expertise
- Who will give me the injections
- How much will the treatment cost
- What results can I expect
- Do I have any higher risk of complications
- Discuss other treatment options and which will be better for you. Combination treatment provide better results