Just about everyone has heard of Botox but very few people understand exactly what it is and what it is able to treat. The aim of this article is to answer some of the questions that people have about Botox and to clarify some of the misconceptions that people have about the treatment. Below are my top 5 things you need to know about Botox:
1. What exactly is Botox?
Botox is a molecule that is produced naturally by a type of bacterium called Clostridium Botulinum. The molecule is classified as a neuro toxin and is extremely dangerous to humans if not used by trained individuals. As a neuro toxin, this means that it prevents the transmission of impulses along the injected nerves. By injecting nerves that supply certain muscles, such as those that cause frown lines in the forehead, the appearance of the face can be improved. Botox can treat mild wrinkles, frown lines and lines around the eyes and mouth but it does have its limitations. If your wrinkles are excessive you will need to consider a surgical procedure such as a face lift.
2. How long do the effects last?
There is no denying that the effects of Botox can be impressive, knocking as much as 10 years off your appearance but just how long does it last for? On average Botox lasts for around 4 months and it is important to understand that your appearance will return to exactly as it was previously after this time. There is some variation between individuals and for some people the effects may only last for as little as one month.
3. Is it dangerous?
Botox is extremely safe and Botox side effects are rare providing you use a fully trained practitioner. There are some risks associated with Botox although they are not permanent as the molecule is 100% metabolised by your body after about 4 months. The most distressing side effects of Botox are a droopy eye lid and frozen forehead. A Drooping eye lid is caused when the Botox inadvertently affects the muscles which control the eye lids and they consequently start to droop. Eye drops can correct this problem but they have to be instilled every day. Frozen forehead is caused by over injection of Botox into the forehead and results in an unnatural appearance as you will be unable to move it at all. This is more likel y to occur with an inexperienced practitioner.
4. Is Botox painful?
The thought of an injection is enough for some people to be completely put off having the treatment but you really shouldn’t worry. The injections that are used are extremely fine meaning most people report only a very mild pricking sensation on administering the drug. If this is something that worries you, you can ask your practitioner to use a local anaesthetic cream to numb the area being treated to ensure that you don’t feel anything!
5. Is Botox expensive?
Compared with surgery, Botox is extremely cheap and the results are generally extremely impressive. There is no recovery time needed after the treatment meaning no time off work is required, which would lead to loss of earnings. It is however a treatment that needs repeating regularly (every 6 months) if you want to maintain the same appearance. The minute you stop using Botox your wrinkles and frown lines etc. will return to exactly as they were previously. This means that Botox is fairly expensive when you calculate it over a life time, if you plan on maintaining the same appearance.
This article was provided by guest author Dr Ganesh Rao who specialises in alternatives to cosmetic surgery such as Botox and dermal fillers. Dr Rao also writes content for his own website Treatmentsaver which covers various topics including the price of Botox and the side effects of Botox injections. The single most important piece of advice Dr Rao would give to anyone considering having Botox is to ensure that your practitioner is fully trained and has all the appropriate qualifications.
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