What
Creates a Wrinkle?
Many wrinkles are actually creases that have been worn into skin by
making the same expression thousands of times. These "expression
lines", often called frown lines or crow's feet, are due to the
contraction of a muscle under the skin in that area. We have known
for years that surgically cutting that muscle will improve the wrinkle.
What is Botox?
Botox
is a purified protein toxin produced by the clostridium botulinum bacteria.
Although Botox is a toxin, there have been no serious side effects.
This is because, for the treatment described, it is used in extremely
small amounts and does not spread throughout the body.
How is Botox Used?
A
few drops of Botox are injected with a tiny needle into the muscle
that creates a wrinkle. When Botox is injected into the muscle,
it blocks the nerve impulse from reaching that area, and as a result,
the muscle weakens. As the muscle weakens the skin overlying the
muscle relaxes and the wrinkles in the skin gradually soften and often
disappear.
Does
a Botox Injection Hurt?
When Botox is injected there is an initial minor sting for a few seconds.
Once the injection is complete, there is usually no discomfort.
Where Can Botox Be Injected?
The most common areas for the use of Botox are the frown lines between
the eyebrows, the horizontal forehead lines, and the crow's feet.
On occasion, some other areas may be treated as well.
Does
Botox Affect Other Facial Expressions or Create Numbness?
Botox does not affect the nerve, so there is no numbness in the area
of injection. Also, the effect of Botox is only in the immediate
area of injection. Therefore, the muscles related to other expressions
are unaffected.
How Long Does a Botox Treatment Last?
The effects of Botox usually last three to five months, at which time
another injection is required. After several treatments, the effects
of Botox may begin to last longer, sometimes up to six to eight months.
How
Safe is Botox?
Botox has been used safely and successfully in opthalmology for over
10 years and for wrinkle therapy for over 6 years. In the amounts
used for wrinkle therapy, the only possible side effects are temporary
and localized to the area of injection.
Is
the Treatment for Everyone?
There are very few restrictions regarding Botox treatments. Patients
who are pregnant or have a neurologic disease should not be treated.
For
more information call Potomac Skin Care at (301) 765-0990 |
