Botox is a Celebrity in its Own Right
- Posted on: Dec 30 2015
When someone mentions Botox, the injectable is so popular that people just assume it’s been around for decades. In truth, the FDA first approved Botox Cosmetic for aesthetic use only in 2002, just 13 years ago.
But ever since its debut, Botox has taken over the aesthetic universe. Year in and year out, Botox injections are far and away the most popular cosmetic procedure, surgical or non-surgical.
Still, some people harbor misperceptions about Botox, how it works and whether it is safe or not. At Creative Image Laser Solutions, Botox is a popular option for our patients, so here is a little refresher course on Botox.
The nerve doesn’t communicate the message to contract the muscle
Botox is derived from the botulinum toxin type A, a neurotoxin. But scientists discovered decades ago that the botulinum toxin type A, when injected into a muscle in very small amounts, is able to paralyze that muscle for a certain period of time. Botox has been used for a few decades to stop involuntary eyelid spasms, some TMJ muscles issues, even migraine headaches. But when the FDA approved it for cosmetic use in 2002, the roof blew off.
Why? Creases and wrinkles are caused by repeated muscle contractions when we perform day-to-day actions such as smiling or frowning. This type of wrinkle is called a dynamic wrinkle. Botox actually blocks the signals from the nerves to the muscle, so the injected muscle can’t contract. And when those muscles that create crow’s feet and forehead creases don’t contract, the wrinkles don’t form. And when they don’t form, the patient looks years, sometimes decades, younger. No wonder Botox is so popular.
How long do its results last?
The body eventually absorbs the now-harmless Botox, usually in about four to six months. At that point, the muscles in question will begin to contract again and the wrinkles will return. To maintain your results, another Botox session is needed.
What occurs following treatment with Botox?
A Botox session with Dr. Buka takes just a few minutes. His extensive experience with Botox and with facial anatomy is important to ensure that the muscle inhibitor is injected only into the intended muscle.
With Botox, there is no downtime, although there may be some slight swelling and redness at the injection sites. Patients also need to avoid rubbing the injected areas for 12 hours, as that can cause the Botox to migrate to unwanted spots. Results usually take from three to seven days to fully show themselves.
There’s a reason millions and millions of people worldwide are believers in Botox. Call us at 325-641-1927 and let’s talk about addressing those wrinkles around your eyes and on your forehead with Botox.
Posted in: Botox
