Botox is one of the most popular non-invasive cosmetic procedures in the world. The injection of Botox has been used from everything to clear up wrinkles to treating pain. In other words, it's cosmetic uses have been well documented. However, there have been growing reports of Botox being used in non-cosmetic medical procedures.
What is it?
Botox is the patented name for botulin toxin type A (BTX-A) of which there are many subtypes. BTX-A is a type of neurotoxin, which is produced by bacteria. It is then "processed" to make Botox.
Botox as patented in the U.S. by Allergan Inc. They got FDA approval back in 1989. However, it wouldn't be until 2002 that it got approved for use in cosmetic procedures.
Due to the nature of BTX-A, it's extremely important that an experienced professional perform the injection. ensure that Reputable cosmetic clinics use only the patented Botox is used, carefully applied to the targeted area, and in the correct amount.
How does it work?
The human body naturally produces a chemical called Acetylcholine. This chemical acts as a neurotransmitter in the body, in other words, the nerve impulses. Botox acts to suppress the production of this chemical.
This is why only a very small amount is ever injected at one time. Also, the area targeted for injection be very specific.
What's it used for?
Botox has been used in both cosmetic and non-cosmetic procedures, since the 1950s. In fact, one of it's early uses was to decrease overall muscle activity, for the area in which it was injected.
Its cosmetic purposes range from the treatment of severe frown lines between the eyebrows (i.e. glabellar lines) and other wrinkles.
Its non-cosmetic purposes range from the treatment of excessive underarm sweating, spasticity, muscle disorders, obesity, knee osteoarthritis and migraines by reducing the pain.
What You Should Know :
Any reputable cosmetic clinic will advise you that the injection of Botox is not a one time out-patient procedure. Follow-ups are required. The frequency of the injections depends a great deal upon the individual and the condition being treated. However, the time between injections can range anywhere from four to eight months. Usually, it's not less than three months.
Avoid invitations to "Botox parties". Botox should only be injected in a sterile, controlled environment. The individual should then rest in an upright position for a few hours. This is to help ensure that the injection does not spread outside of the targeted area. For example, one side effect of this spreading are droopy eyelids. In other words, the muscles and nerves in this area have become temporarily paralyzed. Fortunately, this typically lasts for a few days.
