Botox - What Should First Time Users Expect

With the ever increasing use of this "wonder-drug", there is no doubt that the word 'Botox' has become a part of our everyday lexicon and has become an interchangeable alternative to 'botulinum toxin'. However, Botox® is a brand name for botulinum toxin A. There are also other brand names which are used for cosmetic purposes, such as Dysport and Xeomin. These brands are all approved by the FDA (US Food and  Drug Administration).

As of 2007, it is the most common cosmetic procedure. A new survey has confirmed that wrinkle-relaxing injections are the world's most popular non-surgical procedure, as they now account for 38% of cosmetic procedures worldwide. In fact, Botulinum Toxin Type A beat the nearest competitor by over a million injections last year.*

The cosmetic effect of botulinum toxin type A for the treatment of wrinkles and frown lines has been proven to significantly improve the appearance of moderate-to-severe frown lines between the eyebrows (glabellar lines), on the forehead and around the eyes. Wrinkles caused by sun damage and gravity will not respond to Botox.

Botox is a minimally invasive procedure, that does not require surgery.  The procedure takes only a few minutes and doesn't require anesthesia. In cosmetic applications, Botox is injected with a fine needle into specific muscles with only minor discomfort. The injections help prevent development of wrinkles by paralyzing facial muscles (Botox blocks signals from the nerves to the muscles). As a result, the injected muscle can't contract, which, subsequently, makes the wrinkles relax and soften. It generally takes three to seven days for Botox to to take full effect.

The effects from Botox is temporary and will last four to six months, depending on the individual. As muscle action gradually returns, the lines and wrinkles begin to reappear and need to be treated again. However, the lines and wrinkles often appear less severe with time because the muscles are being trained to relax.

Temporary bruising is the most common side effect of Botox. Headaches, which end in 24 to 48 hours, can happen, but this is a rare side effect. A small percentage of patients may develop eyelid drooping. This usually ends within three weeks. Drooping usually happens when the Botox moves around, so rubbing the treated area for 12 hours after injection or lying down for three to four hours after the procedure, are not advised.

It is best to avoid alcohol starting at least one week before the procedure. You should also stop taking aspirin and anti-inflammatory medications two weeks before treatment to reduce bruising. People who are pregnant or breastfeeding should not use Botox.

*(These figures are based on a 2011 poll of Plastic Surgeons worldwide, carried out by the ISAPS - International Society of AestheticPlastic Surgeons). The statistics for 2012 and 2013 are not yet available.