Botox Injections

What is Botox?

Botox® is the trade name for Botulinum toxin, produced by bacteria called Clostridium botulinum. Botox acts by blocking acetylcholine, a chemical that is responsible for transmitting electrical impulses that cause muscle contraction. This results in temporary muscle paralysis.

Botox was first used in 1978 to weaken overactive muscles in the eye, which means that we have over 30 years follow up for patients and it is considered very safe. It can also be used to prevent and treat wrinkles, migraines and hyperhidrosis (excess sweating).

When injected into the muscles that are responsible for expression wrinkles, it gives the face a more relaxed and smoother appearance. Sometimes longer lasting effects (9 to 12 months) are seen after treatment of excessive sweating. When the Botox is no longer as effective, you may return to have another treatment.

For wrinkle reduction, Botox is injected directly into the muscles that cause the wrinkles, using a very small needle. Several injections are usually needed at specific sites, depending on the area treated.

When used to treat excessive sweating in the armpits or groins, Botox is injected into the skin itself. A slight sting and bruising can occur, as with any injection. Normal activities can be resumed immediately.

The use of Botox is contraindicated in people with neuromuscular disorders (such as myasthenia gravis), those who are taking certain muscle relaxants and antibiotics (such as aminoglycosides) and pregnant or breast-feeding women.

According to available literature, there have not been any severe complications following the use of appropriate cosmetic Botox reported.

Botox wears off after approximately 3 months. Any side effects are temporary and will resolve with time.

However, the incorrect use of Botox can cause harm. Possible side effects and undesirable outcomes include:

  • Pain, itching, swelling or bruising at the injection site.
  • Headache or flu-like symptoms.
  • Droopy eyelids or asymmetrical eyebrows.
  • A crooked smile or drooling.
  • Watery or dry eyes.
  • Infection at the injection site.

Rarely, the medicine may spread to parts of the body where it is not supposed to go and may cause these symptoms.

  • Muscle weakness.
  • Vision problems.
  • Trouble talking or swallowing.
  • Breathing problems.
  • Allergic reaction.
  • Loss of bladder control.

If you have any of the above symptoms, within hours or weeks after your procedure, please call your health care provider immediately.

All the risks will be discussed in detail at your consultation. However, if you have further questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to discuss these with me. Decisions about cosmetic surgery should never be rushed.

Botox usually takes effect 24 to 72 hours after the injection, with maximum effect at about 1 to 2 weeks. Its effects generally last approximately 3 to 4 months.

For self-funding patients the cost depends upon the amount of Botox required and is normally in the range of CI$900 - CI$1,600. If any adjustments are required, they are free of charge.

Botox is injected directly into the muscles that cause the wrinkles, using a very small needle. Several injections are usually needed at specific sites, depending on the area treated. When used to treat excessive sweating in the armpits, Botox is injected into the armpit skin. A slight sting and bruise can occur, as with any injection. Normal activities can be resumed immediately.

The use of Botox is contraindicated in people with neuromuscular disorders (such as myasthenia gravis), those who are taking certain muscle relaxants and antibiotics (such as aminoglycosides) and pregnant or breast-feeding women.

No severe complications after cosmetic use of Botox have been reported in the literature. Very rarely excessive weakening of the target muscles and paresis of adjacent muscles can occur, resulting in facial weakness. This will resolve itself with time. When injecting above the eyebrows, a small degree of upper eyelid drooping may occur. This can be corrected with a further injection or eye-drops, but will also improve as the effects of the Botox wears off.

All the risks will be discussed in detail at your consultation. However, if you have further questions or concerns, do not hesitate to discuss these with me. Decisions about cosmetic surgery should never be rushed.

Botox usually takes effect 24-72 hours after injection, with maximum effect at about 1 to 2 weeks. Its effects generally last for approximately 3-4 months.

When injected into the muscles that are responsible for expression wrinkles, it gives the face a more relaxed and smoother appearance. Sometimes longer lasting effects (9-12 months) are seen after treatment of excessive sweating. When a gradual fading of treatment effect is noticed you may return to have another treatment.

[supsystic-tables id=89]