Dr. Natasha

While we cannot reverse the aging process, we can slow it down and control the visible signs of aging. Botox is one such treatment that can keep us looking younger. It's mainly used for the facial lines and wrinkles that age, stress, worry, and environmental factors may produce, even on a younger person’s face.

Botox is a drug made from the bacterium called Clostridium Botulinum. Botox is one of the most common cosmetic surgery procedure. This unique treatment is also used along with facial plastic surgery procedures such as a facelift or eyelid lift to maximize its cosmetic benefit. Botox treatments can lift the brow which will make your face look less tired, giving you a more youthful appearance.

It can also be used to treat misaligned eyes, severe sweating of the underarm region, cervical dystonia, migraines and uncontrollable blinking. It can also be used to treat an overactive bladder. In terms of cosmetic enhancements, Botox can reduce Dynamic fine lines and wrinkles, prevent new wrinkles from developing. Botox is commonly injected into the forehead, glabella or space between eyebrows, outer corners of the eyes, chin and neck.

Botox is used only in small concentrated dosage by experts, as it can have severe side effects if used incorrectly. The Botox procedure is as simple as getting an injection. It is administered by injecting a readymade Botox solution into the muscles. This paralyses the muscles by blocking nerve signals to the area and preventing the release of acetylcholine, which is responsible for the muscle movement. Usually the results of a Botox injection can be seen within 24-72 hours. In rare cases, it may take up to 5 days for the results to become visible.

Botox is performed as an outpatient procedure and is considered a safe cosmetic procedure. Pregnant women are advised not to undergo Botox treatment until they stop breast feeding after delivery. However, as with any other procedures, it does have a few risks associated with it. These include: Slight pain at the injection site.

Other possible rarest side effects are:

1. Headache

2. Nausea 

3. Temporary weakening of the eye and neck muscles 

4. Bleeding 

5. Blurred vision 

6. Tiredness 

7. Dry mouth 

8. Rashes and inflammation 

9. Wheezing 

The effects of Botox may be influenced by other medications that you are taking and hence before undergoing the procedure, let your doctor know the medicine you are on. Avoid alcohol and strenuous activities for a few days after the injection.

The results of a Botox injection are not permanent and hence they may need to be repeated. Doctors advise maintaining an interval of at least 3 months between Botox injections. However, every time a Botox injection is repeated, the time taken for the lines and wrinkles to reappear reduces.

Botox can be combined with fillers injections for better facial aesthetics.

In case you have a concern or query you can always consult an expert & get answers to your questions!