Botox Injections – Treatments for the Reduction of Wrinkles

Botox injections utilize Botulinum Toxin Type A to treat wrinkles. Botox was originally slated to treat neurological disorders; today, it is widely and successfully used to remove facial lines, especially frown lines, "crow's feet," and forehead lines.

Who is the Best Candidate for Botox Injections?

Good candidates for Botox injections include younger people with facial wrinkles and those who cannot undergo a more extensive plastic surgery procedure such as a facelift. Certain medications may alter the potency of Botox injections, increasing the likelihood of bruising and bleeding. These include some antibiotics, anti-inflammatories, and aspirin, as well as some vitamins and herbs. People with neurological disorders should avoid having Botox injections. Also, women who are pregnant or nursing should not have Botox injections, because the effects on the fetus and on breast milk are unknown.

How are Botox Injections Administered?

Botox is injected directly into the muscle surrounding the wrinkle with a very small needle. If patients experience any discomfort, it is usually minimal and only lasts a few seconds. Once injected, Botox works by preventing nerve impulses from reaching the muscle, allowing it to relax. The effects of the procedure are usually noticeable within a few days. Although the results are not permanent, they usually last for a number of months. Botox injections are performed on an outpatient basis and may be repeated when the results diminish.

Botox Side Effects

Botox injections are relatively safe for most patients. The most common side effects of Botox injections are mild numbness, swelling, bruising, or tingling in the area. Most of these do not occur when the procedure is performed correctly. The patient can help prevent bruising and numbness by refraining from rubbing or touching the treated area for the first day after the procedure is done. A small number of patients report no improvement following their Botox injections. Patients should be screened for allergy to Botox before the procedure is undergone.

If you are interested in learning more about Botox injections, contact a plastic surgeon in your local area.