Botox treatments have become commonplace in today’s society. They are used for a variety of applications, but they are best known for their cosmetic benefits and relief of migraine symptoms. This post is intended to provide readers with a better understanding of Botox and how it works.
One clarification should be made right off the bat: While Botox is the most widely recognized brand name, it is not the only moniker by which these treatments are known. They are also referred to as Dysport and Xeomin applications. All three are comprised of the toxin produced by the bacterium Clostridium botulinum, which is best known for its role in botulism poisoning.
However, it should be noted that the dosages employed for medicinal and cosmetic purposes are carefully regulated, and they should not pose harm to patients who are deemed to be eligible recipients.
To understand its potential benefits and risks, it is important to know how Botox works. The toxin acts as a suppressant and it inhibits signals sent from the nerves to the muscles. As a result, the muscles that have been injected cannot contract. This causes the wrinkles or facial lines to diminish and relax.
From a cosmetic standpoint, applications of this nature are most often utilized on crow’s feet, frown lines, and forehead wrinkles. This treatment will not prove effective, however, on wrinkles that result from gravity and sun exposure.
The procedure itself only takes a few minutes and does not require anesthesia. It is administered via a fine needle into specific muscles, which the doctor should identify and discuss with the patient prior to starting the procedure. This is a minimally invasive application that should involve only minor discomfort.
In most cases, it takes one to two weeks for the treatment to take full effect, and the injections can last up to six months. Over time, the effects of the Botox will diminish and additional applications may be needed.
Those individuals who suffer from neurological conditions, facial tics, and pregnant or breastfeeding women should avoid this treatment. Moreover, given the fact that Botox is not a cure-all for wrinkles, it is highly recommended that all potential patients consult with a qualified physician to determine their eligibility for these procedures. Furthermore, these applications should only be administered by a board-certified professional or physician who specializes in cosmetic and plastic surgery.
If you are considering Botox treatment in Phoenix, AZ, or the surrounding areas, a consultation with Dr. Meger is just a phone call away.