WHAT IS BOTOX AND HOW IT WORKS?
Botox is a brand name for botulinum toxin type A (BTX-A). Botulinum toxin type A is a very strong neurotoxin produced by an anaerobic bacteria Clostidium botulinum. The toxin blocks nerve impulse transition into the muscle and thus inhibits the muscle movements. The above skin becomes soft and smooth. Botulinum toxin influences only the muscles that have been injected by it. Other muscles are intact forming the natural face expression.
The treatment of the chosen muscles by Botox is easy, safe and almost painless so there is no need for anaesthesia. A small amount of Botox is injected into the muscle by a tiny needle. The procedure takes about 30 minutes only.
The experience shows that Botox works the best applied to the upper third of the face and neck area.
It is used for the horizontal forehead lines, for the vertical lines between the eyebrows (glabellar frown), crow’s feet around the eyes and vertical neck lines. It instantly recovers youthful and bright look. It does not work on the lines which are not the result of muscle activities.
BOTOX cannot improve loose neck or face skin, nor replace facelift or any other aesthetic surgery procedure.
BOTOX POST-TREATMENT
The patient can return to her daily routine immediately after the treatment. A minor bruise can appear at the injection site and can be concealed by make-up. Botulinum toxin activates two, three-days after being injected and its effect lasts for 4-6 months. Then it is necessary to repeat the procedure.
Sometimes toxin ‘flows away’ and could block the adjacent muscle. Rarely eyelid drop or facial asymmetry can occur. All potential side effect are time limited and could last for a couple of weeks only.
BOTOX NOTE
Whether the patient is eligible for the procedure or if there are any risks could be assessed only after a check-up. Lesser complications which are of no consequence on the result, are rare. Serious complications are unusual.