Expression Lines: Botox
What is Botox?
Botox, Vistabel, Dysport: these are the brand names of Botulinum Toxin Type A.
The bacteria Clostridium Botulinium produce nine toxins. If this is bacteria is absorbed in a high dose, it can cause a rare form of alimentary poisoning, known as botulism.
The form used in cosmetic treatments is a highly purified version of the Type A toxin. Injected in minute quantities directly into specific muscles, it relaxes the muscles so that wrinkles stemming from muscular hyperaction disappear, producing a "lifting" effect.
What parts of the face does Botox treat?
Practiced by an experienced doctor trained in the application of Botox, the injections can be used to treat expression lines, including:
- Worry lines, between the eyebrows caused by the action of the corrugator muscle
- Crow's feet at the corner of the eye, caused by the action of the orbicular muscle
- Horizontal lines across the brow caused by the hyperaction of the frontalis muscle
How long do results last?
The treatment takes only a few minutes, and the results are apparent within three days, taking maximum effect on the fourth day. After four to six months, the results diminish and muscular action reappears
After several injections, muscular strength diminishes, and the tendency to make specific expressions lessens. Touch-ups are fewer and farther between.
How was Botox tested?
Botox has been used medically since 1980 in the treatment of strabism and in blepharospasm. In 1989, Botox was used for the first time in wrinkle treatments.
Are there any side effects?
Side effects are minimal, restricted to light bruising and a sensation of discomfort at the injection site. There are no records of eye problems after Botox injections, nor are there any permanent side effects. In very rare cases, a light drooping of the eyelid might occur, which disappears in about three weeks.
