Anti-Wrinkle Injections

Botox blocks nerve signals to muscles. As a result, injected muscles can’t contract (tense up). These effects are always temporary, but can last for several months. The muscle injected depends on the primary area of concern. Several areas can be treated in one session.

Botox cosmetic injections are used to address signs of aging. This treatment can smooth fine lines and wrinkles in several areas of your face, including your:

• Eyebrows
• Forehead
• Nose
• Eyes (crow’s feet)
• Lips
• Chin
• Jawline
• Neck

Botox has been used for decades in the medical industry. These injections may be recommended for the treatment of:

• Crossed eyes (strabismus)
• Excessive muscle contractions (dystonia)
• Excessive sweating (hyperhidrosis)
• Eyelid twitching
• Blepharospasm
• Migraines

A bacterium called Clostridium botulinum makes the neurotoxins used in Botox. Doctors use a specific type of the bacteria (type A) for medical injections.

Botulinum toxins occur naturally in soil and contaminated foods. If you consume large amounts of botulinum toxins or the bacteria get into a wound, you can develop botulism. This serious nervous system disorder affects breathing. For optimal safety and efficacy, Botox is produced in a lab. Technicians dilute and sterilize the botulinum toxins so they won’t cause botulism.

Botox is generally safe when administered by a specialist doctor. Ask your medical team if Botox injections are right for you.

Make sure your healthcare provider has a current list of the medications and supplements you take. Certain medications increase the risk of bruising at the injection site. These include anticoagulants or blood thinners (Warfarin) and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). Alcohol also makes you more prone to redness and bruising. Don’t drink for 24 hours before a procedure.

Your healthcare provider uses a fine needle to inject small amounts of Botox into the treatment area. Depending on the issue, you may receive several injections in different spots. Here’s what else you need to know about Botox therapy:

• Botox is an outpatient procedure. You’ll be able to go home the same day.
• Discomfort is usually mild. The injections may sting, but the procedure is over quickly.

Unless your doctor says otherwise, you can return to work and most activities immediately after treatment. To reduce redness, swelling or bruising:

• Do not rub or put pressure on the treatment area for 12 hours.
• Stay upright (don’t lie down) for three to four hours.
• Avoid physical exertion for 24 hours.

On average, the effects of Botox last about three to four months. Retreatment is recommended at this time. Eventually, however, your muscles may train themselves to contract less. As a result, treatments can be spaced out over longer periods of time. Your oculoplastic specialist can let you know how often you should get Botox based on your unique needs.

Side effects from botulinum toxin injections vary depending on the area receiving treatment. Most issues are mild and improve in a day or two. Possible Botox side effects include:

• Pain, swelling, redness or bruising at the treatment site.
• Flu-like symptoms.
• Headache.
• Neck pain.
• Temporary drooping eyelids (ptosis).
• Eye irritation or redness.