What is Botox?
Botulinum toxin, commonly known as Botox, is a neurotoxin produced by the bacterium Clostridium botulinum. Botulinum toxins block the nerve signals that would normally tell your muscles to contract. Botox is a prescription medicine that is injected into muscles, causing them to relax.
What are Botox injections used for?
Botox is used for medical conditions as well as for cosmetic enhancement.
Medical Uses of Botox
Some medical conditions may cause the muscles to contract involuntarily, which can be distressing and debilitating to patients. Eye or facial conditions that are amenable to Botox injection include:
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Involuntary blinking, twitching or closure of the eyes (blepharospasm)
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Facial twitching (hemifacial spasm)
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Squints or misalignment of the eyes
Cosmetic Uses of Botox
Botox is frequently used in facial rejuvenation. Botox injection relaxes the muscles, hence reducing the appearance of wrinkles and giving the skin a smoother appearance. Botox can also be used to enhance the arch of the eyebrows that may be desirable in some women.
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Forehead and facial wrinkles
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Asymmetrical eyebrows
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Enhancement of eyebrow arch
The effects of Botox treatment are not permanent. The effect usually lasts between 3 to 6 months. Repeated injections may be needed to maintain the desired results.
Side Effects
of Botox Injections
While Botox injections are safe when performed by a trained and experienced doctor, side effects can occur. These may include :
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Transient bruising, redness or pain at injection sites
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Tiredness or headaches
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Droopy eyelids
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Double vision
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Allergic reactions