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Botox - Cosmetic Uses

Dr S Bhattacharya (MS. MCh MRCS), Dr N Saha (DGO. MS.)

Updated on 17th Sep, 2024

Botox - Cosmetic Uses

Botox is a neurotoxin which temporarily paralyzes muscles. It is one of the most widely known brands of botulinum toxin injections in the world. In small doses it is used to treat a variety of cosmetic indications as well as medical conditions like migraine, hyperhydriosis, hyperactive bladder. In this article we will explain how Botox works and explain elaborately it's cosmetic uses, side effects and other risks.

What is Botox?

Botox injections are shots that improves facial appearance by relaxing selective muscles that cause wrinkles in the face.

Botox injections are composed of Botulinam Toxin Type A which is a neurotoxin, which when administered block certain chemical signals from nerves that causes muscles to contract; thus paralysing the target muscles and obtain the desired aesthetic results.

mission and vision

Who are the Candidates for Botox injection?

Botox is a powerful tool for antiaging treatment and is primarily used to reduce the appearance of facial wrinkles and used to treat people with :

Botox is also used in Cosmetic Dermatology to slim down the face ; popularly called "Masseter Botox" where Botox is injected into the chewing muscle called masseter, paralysing it partly and thus reducing the volume of the muscle to impart the face with a slimmer look. Masseter Botox is particularly popular among models and actresses.

Another common indication of Botox in aesthetic dermatology is Hyperhidrosis in which condition there is excessive sweating in the underarms and palms.

Some people also use Botox to improve hair volume in alopecia, although it is an off-label use.

However US FDA have only approved the injections of Botox for use around the eyes and on the forehead.

FAQs

Frequently Asked Questions

Selective muscles relaxation or paralysis start after 24-48 hrs and desired results are visible after 10 -14 days.

On an average the effects of Botox last for 3-4 months.

As effects of Botox lasts for 3-4 months on an average; repeat injections should be given at an interval of 3/4 months. As the muscles gradually train themselves to contract less Botox injections can be spaced over longer peroids of time.

Botox injection is not painful as numbing cream is applied 20 mins prior to the procedure and moreover injections done by experienced medical professionals rules out chances of pain, though some people may feel a stinging sensation.

Botox injections are usually safe when administered by experienced medical professionals. Possible side effects and unwanted results include:

  • Pain, swelling & bruising at the injection site.
  • Asymmetrical crooked smile or drooling of saliva at the angle of the mouth.
  • Flu like symptoms.
  • Headache.
  • Temporary droopy eyelids or crooked eyebrows.
  • Watery or dry eyes.

  • Don't massage or put pressure on the treatment area for 12 hours.
  • Stay upright (don't lie down) for 3-4 hours.
  • Avoid physical exertion for 24 hrs.