What is Botox?
Botulinum toxin is a local paralytic agent derived from clostridium botulinum used in its purified form to counter wrinkles of the face in adults. Equally effective for both genders.
How much botox is needed for my face?
It’s the severity of lines/wrinkles that determine the time and dose of injection but not the age. Results can be visible as soon as 6 hours after exposure while obvious clinical effects usually manifest by 7 days and lasts between 3 and 6 months.
What is the procedure?
The procedure can be performed without harm, and repeatedly with expectable results. It is a quick treatment with minimal downtime, injected by small 30-gauge needles that makes it more bearable and also reduces the chances of bruising.
Are there any precautions/contraindications?
Blood thinners that predispose to bleeding or coagulation problems must be stopped for about 1 week before treatment. Patients including pregnant and lactating females, psychologicaly unstable, allergic to human albumin, history of neuro-muscular disorders (Myasthenia Gravis, Eaton-lambert syndrome, Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis) and the patients using drugs i.e., penicillamine, quinine, calcium channel blockers, and amino glycosides should consult beforehand.
Which areas can be addressed with botox?
Areas that can be benefited are Upper third of face (Forehead lines, glabellar lines, frown lines, crow’s feet,limited brow ptosis in selected patients especially females), Lower third of face (Gummy smile, marionette line, labiomental creases, nasal flaring, cobble stoning) and Neck (verticle and horizontal rhytides).
What are the side effects?
Any side effect is very rare. Person getting the treatment may experience some degree of local pain, erythema, rash, ecchymosis or hyperesthesia at injection site. Unwanted muscle weakness or paralysis adjacent to the site of injection can also happen i.e. drooping of eyelids or eyebrows that return to their natural position within a few weeks or months. Patient may also experience fatigue, malaise, distant rashes or nausea in case of systemic spread.
Q. To whom should I consult?
This procedure is done by plastic surgeons. The surgeon will take a detailed history, perform examination, counsel you about the procedure and associated risks.You can discuss your expectation with the surgeon before getting the procedure done.
From where should I get it done?
The treatment should be done by a plastic surgeon who is certified and have a thorough knowledge on anatomy of face and use of botox.
Important points to understand:
You must discuss all your medical condition that you have like blood pressure, Diabetes, Asthma etc. and all previous operations.
All your medications (tablets) that you are taking.
Any allergy to any medication.
Family history of any illness.
Any bleeding disorder.
Always ask all questions that are in your mind, that you may have read or heard from someone.