Botox/Vistabel™ is used to make lines or wrinkles between the eye brows look better. It only lasts for a short time. Botox is only approved for people 18-65 years old. It has not been tested on people under 18 or over 65.
What is Botox™?
Botox™ comes from a kind of bacteria. Doctors have found that a chemical in Botox™ can also help treat some health problems. They have been using it safely for many years.
How was this found?
FDA (Food and Drug Administration) approved Botox™ over 15 years ago to treat certain problems with the eye muscle. Doctors noticed that some wrinkles around the eyes looked better, too. The company that makes Botox™ tested it. They showed the FDA that Botox™ worked and was safe for treating some kinds of wrinkles. In Europe it is approved as Vistabel.TM
How does Botox™ work?
Wrinkles may be caused when a muscle tightens. Botox™ is injected through the skin into the muscle. The Botox™ keeps the muscle from tightening. When the muscle can't tighten, the wrinkle doesn't show as much.
What happens over time?
Botox™ works for about four to six months. As the muscle returns to normal, you will see the wrinkle again.
Are there any side effects?
Side effects may include:
- Droopy eyelids, which can last for a few weeks
- Feeling like you have the flu
- Headache and upset stomach
- Pain, bruising at the site of injection
- Spread of the toxin beyond the treatment area, which can cause botulism-like signs and symptoms (trouble swallowing, muscle weakness, slurred speech and breathing problems). The risk of this happening is rare.
REMEMBER- Botox™ is a drug, not a cosmetic.
What should I do if I want to try Botox™?
- Ask about how Botox™ could help or hurt you
- Make sure your doctor is trained in the use of Botox™
- Make sure you get treatment in a doctor's office or clinic
- Do not use if you are pregnant or think you might be pregnant or breast feeding
- Do not use if you are breast feeding
- Tell your doctor if you are taking antibiotics or blood thinning medication.
- Tell your doctor if you have any problems with nerves or muscles.
- A discussion of your expectations.
You and your doctor talk about your motivations and expectations. He or she explains what Botox can and can't do for you and what your results might be.Photographic records before and after the procedure are recommended.
After the procedure
Botox injections require no downtime. Expect to resume your normal daily activities immediately. Take care, though, not to rub or massage the treated areas. This can cause the toxin to migrate to a different area of your face. If this occurs, temporary facial weakness or drooping is possible. It is helpful to work your muscles for a few hours. Bending and strenuous activity may cause bruising.
Botox injections do not erase lines but make them less prominent by relaxing the injected muscles. Deeper lines will become less deep and superficial line may disappear. It may be necessary to have additional procedures carried out in the form of fillers. Discuss with your doctor.
|
