What Is Botox Used For?
You’ve undoubtedly gathered up some information on Botox injections throughout the years. Most individuals are aware that these injections can be used to target wrinkles on the face but what are Botox injections exactly and what is Botox used for? In this blog post, we will discuss all that you need to know about Botox.
General Information About Botox
First off, Botox is a brand of neuromodulator, that is injected into the muscles beneath the skin. Other brands such as Xeomin, Dysport and Jeuveau are generally the same but Botox was the first with FDA approval and remains the brand most widely recognized by consumers. These injections work to temporarily reduce the appearance of crow’s feet, wrinkles on the forehead, frown lines, and other wrinkles. Over time, neuromodulators have also been established as a therapeutic treatment for hyperhidrosis (excessive sweating), bruxism ( teeth grinding or jaw clenching) and migraine therapy.
How does Botox work?
Botox injections block signals from the nerve cells responsible for muscle contraction. This prevents the formation of wrinkles and gives the skin a smoother appearance. Neuromodulator can also be used to treat other areas of the body, such as the neck, shoulders, back, and hands. The effects of these injections typically last for 3-4 months before requiring touch-ups. The exact duration of time will depend on each individual’s muscle activity and metabolism. Let’s divide the uses of Botox® into two categories.
What is Cosmetic Botox used for?
Wrinkles
Botox is cosmetically used to improve the appearance of wrinkles. It works by temporarily paralyzing the muscles in the face, which gives the skin a smoother appearance. Glabellar lines are frown lines that run between your brows and over the lower half of your forehead. Frequent facial muscle contractions, such as frowning or squinting, causes these wrinkles to appear. Botox injections are most commonly used in these muscles on the face, as well as to treat crow’s feet (lines fanning out from the corners of the eyes), forehead wrinkles, and “smoker’s lines”. It can also be used to soften marionette lines.
Brow Lift
A botox brow lift is a procedure that improves the appearance of the eyebrows. The neuromodulator is injected into a specific muscle circling the eye. Injecting into these areas prevents contraction. This in turn reduces the appearance of wrinkles and makes the eyebrows appear more lifted.
What is Therapeutic Botox used for?
Hyperhidrosis
Hyperhidrosis is a condition that causes excessive sweating. It can be difficult to manage and can have a significant impact on quality of life. Neuromodulator is an effective treatment for hyperhidrosis. It works by temporarily paralyzing the sweat glands in the underarm area, which reduces the amount of perspiration. After topically numbing the armpits for 20-30 minutes, 50 units are injected into each armpit. Treatments are typically performed every six months to maintain results.
Bruxism
Bruxism is a condition characterized by teeth grinding or jaw clenching, which can lead to problems such as headaches, jaw pain, and damaged teeth. Botox can be used to relax the muscles in the jaw and help reduce bruxism symptoms. If you’re struggling with bruxism, your doctor will inject approximately 30 units of neuromodulator into the masseter muscles located on each side of your jaw.
Migraines
Migraines are a type of headache that can cause severe pain, nausea, and sensitivity to light and sound. Botox is a therapeutic treatment that can help reduce the frequency and severity of migraines. The neuromodulator works by relaxing the muscles in the face and neck that are associated with migraines. This can help to reduce the pain and other symptoms associated with migraines. Botox is typically injected into the muscles every 12 weeks at first. Pain relief should get progressively better over time if treatments are maintained. As treatment progresses, the effectiveness may start to last longer too and treatments can potentially be less frequent. Trigger point injections between neuromodulator sessions also help to prolong the effectiveness of the full therapy. If you suffer from migraines, talk to your doctor about whether botox may be right for you.
Botox FAQ
Do Botox injections hurt?
Botox injections are not painful. However, you may feel a slight pinch or cramp when the needle is inserted. You will also experience a minor stinging sensation when the Botox solution is injected. Many people report that this feeling is no worse than the sting of an insect bite. In fact, most people find the injections quite tolerable.
What are the potential side effects of Botox?
As with all drugs, there is always a list of side effects. Neuromodulator side effects do tend to be rare and temporary though. These can include problems with vision, droopiness, bruising, swallowing, breathing and headaches. Most people tolerate the injections well.
How long does Botox last?
Every patient’s experience with how long neuromodulator injections last varies. Males most often metabolize neuromodulator faster than females. Athletes and those who aggressively exercise tend to metabolize it faster than those who do not as well.
What can I expect after my Botox injections
After your injections, it is recommended you avoid, sweating, exercise, hot tubs or any high heat exposure for 24 hours. There can be some pinpoint bruising around injection sites if you are on any kind of medications that thin your blood. Results can be evident as soon as four to five days from the date of injections but can take up to two full weeks to fully set in. If you are preparing for an important event, it is recommended to schedule your injection appointment 2-3 week prior to the event date. This also leaves time for a “touch up” visit to your injector if you feel the need for a few more units. Generally, there is no downtime or discomfort after neuromodulator injections.
Summary
If you are ready for Botox injections it is important to research qualified injectors in your area. You may also find it beneficial to request a free consultation prior to booking the actual appointment. Don’t be afraid to get more than one consultation from providers in your area before choosing which clinic feels right for you. Ask about their qualifications, experience and recommended dosage amount and rates for their procedures.
If you have any questions or comments for Dr. Tania de Klerk or the staff at Aveline Mediclinic, we are happy to help. Feel free to use the comment section below.
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