Botox Basics: A Quick Guide
It’s no surprise that plastic surgery and cosmetic procedures are on the rise – partly due to new innovations in surgical techniques and technology. Additionally, they have become the topic of conversation for not only celebrities but also everyday people who are talking more and more openly about the procedures they love.
According to the 2020 annual report of the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS), over 4 million people received Botulinum toxin type A injections last year — most commonly known as Botox, Dysport, or Xeomin!
As Botox use rises and people continue to talk more openly, more people are asking questions. Here’s a quick guide for things you need to know about the basics of Botox.
What is Botox and how does it work?
Botox received FDA approval in 2002 as a cosmetic treatment aimed at enhancing the youthful appearance of the face by eliminating wrinkles and fine lines. Derived from Clostridium botulinum, its mechanism of action is to block cholinergic transmission at the neuromuscular junction by inhibiting the release of acetylcholine from peripheral nerve endings.
Simply put, Botox injections work to block the nerves. Instead of contracting, the muscles stay relaxed and the skin doesn’t form a wrinkle. Less contracting equals fewer wrinkles, softening of existing wrinkles, and prevention of forming new wrinkles.
Why do people use it?
The popularity of Botox is largely due to the fact that it can be used for a wide variety of both medical and cosmetic purposes.
The most common area treated and indications:
- Glabella
- Frontalis
- Crow’s Feet/Eye
- Lip Lines Upper & Lower
- Depressor Anguli Oris
- Mentalis (pebble chin)
- Platysma Bands (neck)
- Nasalis (bunny nose)
- Brow Lift
- Horizontal Neck Lines
- Axillary Hyperhidrosis (sweating)
Other areas treated & indications:
- Bruxism (teeth grinding)
- Gummy Smile
- Uncontrolled blinking (Blepharospasm
- Muscular contractions caused by a neurological disorder called Cervical dystonia
- Overactive bladder
- Chronic migraines
What does the procedure involve?
Botox injections are administered by a qualified licensed medical professional. Most often by a registered nurse, nurse practitioner, or physician. The procedure begins with an initial consultation where the outcomes and expectations are discussed.
The provider will assess:
- Any pre-existing conditions or contraindications
- Possible drug interactions
- Height, weight, sex, and age
- Activity of the muscles
- Previous dosage
- Patient’s desires
- Any asymmetries
The patient may be asked to stop certain medications including aspirin and other anti-inflammatory medications to reduce the chances of excessive bleeding and bruising before the treatment.
The injections and the amount of Botox needed are determined by the medical professional while taking the patient’s desires into account. After administration to the problem areas, the movement of the muscles in that area is minimized greatly or frozen. The injections are a very quick process with little pain. Often, numbing cream is provided in advance to maximize your comfort. There is no requirement for a general or local anesthetic. You could undergo the treatment during your lunch break, as the appointment can last around 15 minutes. There is no downtime and you can return to work immediately.
The results may be visible within 72 hours, although it could take seven days to obtain maximum effect. In very rare cases, patients do not respond to Botox. It is common to see a partial response to the first set of Botox injections while complete muscle relaxation is often obtained after the second or third set of injections.
What are the side effects?
Slight bruising is the most common side effect. Rarely, patients may have a very minor headache that subsides within a day or two. Allergic reactions are also very rare and not commonly encountered. When a qualified and experienced medical professional administers the injections, most other problems are not witnessed.
How often should I get Botox?
Results can last between four to six months. Since everyone responds differently, your OnePeak Medical Professional can advise you on the required number of treatments.
How do I book my Botox appointment at OnePeak Medical?
Botox procedures are available at all OnePeak Medical locations. Call your local clinic to book a consultation.