Botox is a form of botulinum toxin.

Introduction:

Botox is a form of botulinum toxin.
Cosmetic physicians have been using botox for years to
successfully treat wrinkles. Botox is the brand name of a toxin
produced by the bacterium clostridium botulinum. This can be used for
both men and women. We associate this toxin taken in large amounts with
food poisoning. Inspite of serious complications associated with botox,
scientists have discovered a way to put it to the use for humans. Small
diluted amounts can be directly injected into the area which causes
controlled weakening of the muscles.

In 1980's the FDA approved the usage of botox when it was discovered
that it could stop ailments like blinking and lazy eye. Since then
cosmetic physicians have been using botox to successfully treat
wrinkles and reduce the frown lines, forehead creases, crowsfeet near
the eyes and thick bands in the neck we have also come to know that
botox reduces migraine headaches, excessive sweating and muscles spasms
in the neck and the eyes. It is also used for other areas of the face
as well.

Patients who are pregnant should not use botox. Botox is available as
single-use� vials which means that vial of botox is meant for the use
of single patient during one session completed within four hours.

Procedure:
Botox blocks signals from nerves to the muscles. The injected muscles
can no longer contract; usually it is used on forehead lines, crow's
feet (lines around eyes) and frown lines. Botox will not respond to
wrinkles caused by sun.

The procedure will only take a few minutes without anesthesia. Botox is
injected with a fine needle into the spot, slight pain, resembling an
insect bite may occur. During the procedure there is usually no pain.
The patient may return to her/his own work on the same day. But care
must be taken to keep the head upright and not to massage the injected
area.

It generally takes three to seven days to take full effect. It is best
to avoid alcohol during this period. Aspirin and anti-inflammatory
drugs should be stopped two weeks before treatment.

Effects of botox injections:

When ever we go in for either a surgery or botox injections there are
always risks and side effects present. It is always compulsory to
discuss the pros and cons with your surgeon. First tell them what your
symptoms are.

1. Temporary bruising is the most common side effect.

2. Head aches which lead to eyelid drooping which
usually resolves in three weeks. This development occurs due to the
migration of the botox so avoid rubbing the treated area for 12 hours
after injection. Also avoid lying down for hours.

3. The treatment is safe when carried by trained
professionals. Besides only very small quantities of botox is given
intravenously. The FDA recommends a frequency of once in three months
with lowest effective dose.

4. It may develop new wrinkles as the result of the
treatment. Due to temporary paralysis of the targeted muscles the
neighboring muscles compensate in the production of new wrinkles.