With all the hype and insanity over people getting Botox injections for everything from a sagging chin to a droopy eyelid, one has to wonder just what it is that Botox does and how exactly does it work?
To understand exactly what Botox is and what it does, we first have to look at just how this amazing miracle of modern science came to be.
Botulinum toxins, which are what Botox basically comes from, were first researched back in the good old 60s during the hippie era. Originally the purpose of this was to treat neurological disorders. In 1989 Botox was finally approved by the FDA to treat eye muscle disorders like blepharospasm, uncontrollable blinking, strabismus, crossed eyes and even wrinkles. In the year 2000 it was approved to treat cervical dystonia. This is a disorder that causes severe neck and shoulder contractions and also a very unusual side effect of eye disorder treatments. In their research, doctors discovered that Botox softened the frown lines between the eyebrows. It was after this discovery that Botox officially came into existence and was FDA approved on April 15, 2002.
So what exactly does Botox do? How does it work? Well, when Botox is injected into the muscles of the forehead, it blocks nerve impulses which results in the weakening of the muscles that cause frowning. Eventually over a period of several months, given enough of these injections, the frown lines start to get softer and in many cases eventually disappear completely. Botox can also be injected into the muscles of the face that cause crows feet, forehead lines and frown lines.
Botox injections themselves are actually a diluted form of botulism. Yes, the same botulism that can make us very ill. Botox cosmetic is a purified form the Botulinum toxin.
The next question is, how exactly does it work? Well, to put it simply, every time you laugh, smile, frown, or for that matter do just about anything with your facial muscles, wrinkles are caused by the underlying contractions of these muscles. After years of making these expressions the wear and tear on your face begins to be noticeable and the lines start to become permanent. When these creases become permanent, no kind of skin cream can get rid of them. That's where Botox comes in. After being injected into the effected area, it temporarily paralyzes these muscles so that you can't make these expressions. That's why people who have had Botox injections literally look like mannequins. You'll still have enough movement to look semi human (a matter of opinion) but not enough to cause these wrinkles. So in fact by taking these Botox injections they make you look younger.
So what's the price for this "fountain of youth?" Botox is not cheap, my friend. The average cost of just one Botox injection in the United States is about $350. This also depends on what area of your face is getting the injections. The area near the eyes is more expensive, costing between $400 and $900 per injection. For large surface areas such as the forehead, injections can be between $600 and $1300 a pop.
And with all the fuss about simply looking younger, one has to wonder how safe these injections are. That is probably best left for another time.
Wednesday, October 7, 2009
Tuesday, October 6, 2009
Botox: Its Latest, and Most Exciting Cosmetic Uses
Undoubtedly, the fastest growing non-surgical cosmetic procedure is Botox injections, with over 1.3 million administered last year alone. Type-A exotoxin, or Botox Cosmetic?, marketed by Allergan, Inc., Irvine, CA, is produced, perhaps surprisingly, by the bacterium Clostridium botulinum, the cause of botulism.
While skin researchers have demonstrated that wrinkles in the aging face are clearly related to the accumulated effects of excessive sunexposure, smoking, volume loss, and gravity, facial expressions and animation, known as dynamic wrinkling, also play a major role in the development of many types of neck and facial lines and furrows. By binding to the junction between nerves and muscle tissue, Botox effectively blocks the release of acetylcholine, the chemical responsible for normal muscular contractions, weakening the ability of certain facial muscles to induce fine lines, wrinkles, frowns and furrows through their repetitive use.
Botox has an excellent safety record in humans. Since the late-1970s, it has been used to treat muscle abnormalities associated with certain tic disorders, vocal cord problems and ocular abnormalities. And in the more than twenty-five years since its introduction and FDA-approval for these indications, it has consistently proven not only safe but reliable in millions of injections.
Cosmetic Uses of Botox
While other procedures, like laser resurfacing, dermabrasion and chemical peeling deal primarily with wrinkled skin at rest, Botox is considered the treatment of choice for movement-related wrinkles. Although initially used only to treat the so-called “scowl” (frown) lines between the eyes, Botox injections have been found remarkably effective for treating a wide range of facial and neck lines and furrows. Great improvement may be seen in the horizontal “worry” lines of the forehead and the “crow’s feet” lines on the sides of the eyes, which in many cases may be eliminated entirely with treatment. Even more recently it has been used as a chemical (nonsurgical) browlift to restore the more youthful-appearing subtle upturning of the lateral eyebrows, to reduce the crepe paper-like crinkles under the eyes and creases around the chin, to counter the “marionette” line downturning at the corners of the mouth, to soften “smoker’s” (lipstick bleeding) lines around the lips, and to reduce laugh lines. Even the so-called “bunny” lines on the sides of the nose may be eliminated by Botox. In the neck, Botox has been employed successfully for improving the appearance both of the vertical “chicken-neck” (“turkey gobbler”) ropelike bands on the upper neck and the horizontal “necklace” lines encircling the lower neck. Even more recently, it has been successfully employed to lift the tips of drooping noses, a common problem with aging. Results of these treatments are usually seen between one and ten days after treatment and typically last for four to six months, although after several treatment periods more prolonged benefits may be seen.
Best Candidates for Treatment
While the “typical” Botox patient is usually a woman in her mid-forties to mid-sixties, many men and women older and younger have also been treated successfully. Individuals with neuromuscular disorders and pregnant women and nursing mothers, however, are not candidates for treatment.
What To Expect
Botox is a watery-looking substance, which is administered, for greater comfort, through a needle finer than most sewing needles. The actual number of injections and the amounts given vary with the areas being treated. Prices for treatment sessions also vary considerably, depending upon locale and the number of sites treated, and may range from $500 to $2000.
Certain medications and food supplements may increase the possibility of bruising, so you should discuss with your doctor stopping them prior to treatment. These include aspirin, non-steroidal antiinflammatory drugs (eg. Advil, Aleve), alcohol, vitamin E, ginseng and ginko biloba. Although injections tend to be somewhat uncomfortable, a simple ice pack applied beforehand generally suffices to reduce discomfort. It take about fifteen minutes to treat an entire face and neck.
Happily, complications of Botox treatments are few and short-lived, and Botox can truly be counted among the “lunchtime beauty fixes,” meaning that in almost all cases, patients can immediately return to work or social activities. Minor complications include swelling, bruising and tenderness at the injection sites, which usually disappear in a few days; slight headache, which may last a few hours; and rarely, a slight lid drooping, which most often resolves in two weeks. There have been no reports of generalized illness from treatments with Botox. One treatment session is often sufficient, but If a touch up is needed, it is best done at least a month later to reduce the chance of inducing any resistence to the material.
To prevent Botox from spreading beyond the treatment sites, a few physicians advise their patients to remain upright for at least four hours immediately afterward and not to massage the treated areas. Most simply advise patients to repeatedly contract the treated muscles for up to hours hours afterward in order to work the material into the body of the muscles.
Some patients fear, unreasonably, that following Botox therapy they will have a “Kabuki-like” mask appearance and that they will also lose skin sensation. In reality, only the treated muscles will be relaxed leaving all else functioning perfectly intact, including sensation. In the overwhelming majority of cases, Botox patients are delighted with their “calmer,” more relaxed, less wrinkled, less frowning look. And the future of these treatments looks bright as other forms are being studied and newer uses being tested.
While skin researchers have demonstrated that wrinkles in the aging face are clearly related to the accumulated effects of excessive sunexposure, smoking, volume loss, and gravity, facial expressions and animation, known as dynamic wrinkling, also play a major role in the development of many types of neck and facial lines and furrows. By binding to the junction between nerves and muscle tissue, Botox effectively blocks the release of acetylcholine, the chemical responsible for normal muscular contractions, weakening the ability of certain facial muscles to induce fine lines, wrinkles, frowns and furrows through their repetitive use.
Botox has an excellent safety record in humans. Since the late-1970s, it has been used to treat muscle abnormalities associated with certain tic disorders, vocal cord problems and ocular abnormalities. And in the more than twenty-five years since its introduction and FDA-approval for these indications, it has consistently proven not only safe but reliable in millions of injections.
Cosmetic Uses of Botox
While other procedures, like laser resurfacing, dermabrasion and chemical peeling deal primarily with wrinkled skin at rest, Botox is considered the treatment of choice for movement-related wrinkles. Although initially used only to treat the so-called “scowl” (frown) lines between the eyes, Botox injections have been found remarkably effective for treating a wide range of facial and neck lines and furrows. Great improvement may be seen in the horizontal “worry” lines of the forehead and the “crow’s feet” lines on the sides of the eyes, which in many cases may be eliminated entirely with treatment. Even more recently it has been used as a chemical (nonsurgical) browlift to restore the more youthful-appearing subtle upturning of the lateral eyebrows, to reduce the crepe paper-like crinkles under the eyes and creases around the chin, to counter the “marionette” line downturning at the corners of the mouth, to soften “smoker’s” (lipstick bleeding) lines around the lips, and to reduce laugh lines. Even the so-called “bunny” lines on the sides of the nose may be eliminated by Botox. In the neck, Botox has been employed successfully for improving the appearance both of the vertical “chicken-neck” (“turkey gobbler”) ropelike bands on the upper neck and the horizontal “necklace” lines encircling the lower neck. Even more recently, it has been successfully employed to lift the tips of drooping noses, a common problem with aging. Results of these treatments are usually seen between one and ten days after treatment and typically last for four to six months, although after several treatment periods more prolonged benefits may be seen.
Best Candidates for Treatment
While the “typical” Botox patient is usually a woman in her mid-forties to mid-sixties, many men and women older and younger have also been treated successfully. Individuals with neuromuscular disorders and pregnant women and nursing mothers, however, are not candidates for treatment.
What To Expect
Botox is a watery-looking substance, which is administered, for greater comfort, through a needle finer than most sewing needles. The actual number of injections and the amounts given vary with the areas being treated. Prices for treatment sessions also vary considerably, depending upon locale and the number of sites treated, and may range from $500 to $2000.
Certain medications and food supplements may increase the possibility of bruising, so you should discuss with your doctor stopping them prior to treatment. These include aspirin, non-steroidal antiinflammatory drugs (eg. Advil, Aleve), alcohol, vitamin E, ginseng and ginko biloba. Although injections tend to be somewhat uncomfortable, a simple ice pack applied beforehand generally suffices to reduce discomfort. It take about fifteen minutes to treat an entire face and neck.
Happily, complications of Botox treatments are few and short-lived, and Botox can truly be counted among the “lunchtime beauty fixes,” meaning that in almost all cases, patients can immediately return to work or social activities. Minor complications include swelling, bruising and tenderness at the injection sites, which usually disappear in a few days; slight headache, which may last a few hours; and rarely, a slight lid drooping, which most often resolves in two weeks. There have been no reports of generalized illness from treatments with Botox. One treatment session is often sufficient, but If a touch up is needed, it is best done at least a month later to reduce the chance of inducing any resistence to the material.
To prevent Botox from spreading beyond the treatment sites, a few physicians advise their patients to remain upright for at least four hours immediately afterward and not to massage the treated areas. Most simply advise patients to repeatedly contract the treated muscles for up to hours hours afterward in order to work the material into the body of the muscles.
Some patients fear, unreasonably, that following Botox therapy they will have a “Kabuki-like” mask appearance and that they will also lose skin sensation. In reality, only the treated muscles will be relaxed leaving all else functioning perfectly intact, including sensation. In the overwhelming majority of cases, Botox patients are delighted with their “calmer,” more relaxed, less wrinkled, less frowning look. And the future of these treatments looks bright as other forms are being studied and newer uses being tested.
Monday, October 5, 2009
Botox: A Treatment ot Reduce Wrinkles Around the Area of the Eyes
Sometimes there are occurrences of certain fine lines or wrinkles in and around the areas of the eyes. More particularly, with the advancement of age such wrinkles do usually appear. But at present there is a proper solution to overcome this through a process called botox. Botox is generally a process which helps in reducing the fine lines and the wrinkles around the areas of the eyes. Botox cannot be considered as a permanent treatment to overcome fine lines and wrinkles but it is helpful in reducing it to a suitable extent. Botox is only a temporary procedure for removal of wrinkles and fine eye lines. Botox is a sort of treatment which can in otherwise also make a person go sick who undertakes it.
But what exactly is a botox? The answer to this can be explained as such that, botox is a substance which is usually injected to make the areas around the eyes more soften and relaxed. It consists of a toxin which is called as botulin toxin. Botulin toxin is generally considered as an enzyme which breaks the fusion proteins which lead to the formation of wrinkles. On the other hand, it helps in the release of acetylcholine which helps in the reduction of the fine lines and the wrinkles around the eyes.
Botox as it is effective for reduction and smoothing out of the wrinkles, it is also quite prone to certain side effects like dry mouth. It can also to an extreme level impair and paralyze the muscles which work in the process of breathing. Thus in certain pretext botox can be very much deadly. But in spite of all these side effects, botox has been enormously used for removal of wrinkles and the fine line around the areas of the eyes. Botox is considered as a basic treatment which can be meted out for the purpose of removing the wrinkles. Botox also helps in the relaxation of the eye muscles and thus lessens the appearance of wrinkles and the fine line in the area of the eye which is called the crow’s feet or the laugh lines.
But if we overrule the side effects of botox, we can confidently refer botox as the “vital cascade of youth.” Botox is a general form of therapeutic treatment which works appropriately over the muscles and the nerves around the area of the eyes. The way that it works for the reduction of the wrinkles is through the process of blocking the transmission of the nerves in order to reduce the facial contraction of the muscles. Thus in this way the wrinkles and the fine lines around the eyes are eventually reduced to a certain extent.
But what exactly is a botox? The answer to this can be explained as such that, botox is a substance which is usually injected to make the areas around the eyes more soften and relaxed. It consists of a toxin which is called as botulin toxin. Botulin toxin is generally considered as an enzyme which breaks the fusion proteins which lead to the formation of wrinkles. On the other hand, it helps in the release of acetylcholine which helps in the reduction of the fine lines and the wrinkles around the eyes.
Botox as it is effective for reduction and smoothing out of the wrinkles, it is also quite prone to certain side effects like dry mouth. It can also to an extreme level impair and paralyze the muscles which work in the process of breathing. Thus in certain pretext botox can be very much deadly. But in spite of all these side effects, botox has been enormously used for removal of wrinkles and the fine line around the areas of the eyes. Botox is considered as a basic treatment which can be meted out for the purpose of removing the wrinkles. Botox also helps in the relaxation of the eye muscles and thus lessens the appearance of wrinkles and the fine line in the area of the eye which is called the crow’s feet or the laugh lines.
But if we overrule the side effects of botox, we can confidently refer botox as the “vital cascade of youth.” Botox is a general form of therapeutic treatment which works appropriately over the muscles and the nerves around the area of the eyes. The way that it works for the reduction of the wrinkles is through the process of blocking the transmission of the nerves in order to reduce the facial contraction of the muscles. Thus in this way the wrinkles and the fine lines around the eyes are eventually reduced to a certain extent.
Sunday, October 4, 2009
A Quick Guide To Botox
Quick Guide to Botox
What is Botox?
Botox (Botulinum toxin type A) has been used for over 15 years in the cosmetic surgery industry as a popular treatment for facial wrinkles. It derives from the bacteria Clostridium botulinum, which can be harmful when present in high doses and is the toxin that causes food poisoning. However, small dilute quantities can be injected safely under the skin to act as a muscle relaxant.
How does it work?
Botox is used to treat lines and creases by injecting small amounts into the facial muscles. Normally, chemicals released by nerve cells in the face cause the muscles to tighten, leading to frown lines. Botox blocks these chemical signals causing a slight weakening of the muscle contraction and a smoothing of the skin's appearance. Contrary to popular belief, skillfully applied Botox does not paralyze the facial muscles completely, just relaxes and reduces their response.
What can Botox do for me?
Botox treatment can reduce the appearance of frown lines, forehead wrinkles and crows feet around the eyes. It can also be used to treat creases around the mouth. When performed properly it should have a gentle relaxing effect while still allowing natural expressions like smiling and frowning. Botox treatment will not reduce lines caused by sun damage and may not be fully effective on very deep creases.
Is it safe?
A course of Botox injections is a well established and recognized treatment that is considered to be safe when carried out by a qualified practitioner. There are, however, some groups of people who should not use Botox. These include pregnant and breastfeeding women and anyone suffering from a disease that affects the nerves or muscles. Certain medicines can react with Botox and you should consult your doctor if you are taking antibiotics or drugs to control heartbeat irregularities, Alzheimer's disease or myasthenia gravis (a chronic autoimmune disorder). If you are known to be allergic to any of the ingredients in Botox or if the area to be treated is infected, you should not have the treatment.
What happens during treatment?
First the surgeon will discuss your medical history and assess which areas of your face to treat. A series of small injections will then be directed straight into the facial muscles using a fine needle. You will not need an anesthetic as the injections cause very little pain. The whole procedure should be completed within a matter of minutes.
How quickly will I recover?
As soon as the procedure is completed, you will be able to return to normal activities. Some patients report a slight headache but this should soon pass. Sometimes you will be advised not to lie down for 3 or 4 hours after the procedure as this can encourage the Botox to spread to other areas of the face. You should not rub the treated area for the same reason. Botox usually takes 3 to 7 days to take full effect, after which time visible improvement in facial lines should be noticeable. Your normal facial expressions should still be present. The beneficial effects of Botox usually last for 3 to 6 months.
Are there any side effects?
Side effects of Botox treatment are usually mild. Some patients experience a slight headache for the first 24 hours after injections to the forehead area, especially after their first treatment. Mild bruising of the injected area can also occur. In very rare cases, excess Botox can cause droopy eyelids, a condition known as ptosis. This is unlikely to occur when the treatment is carried out by an experienced cosmetic surgeon and will gradually correct itself as the Botox wears off. If you do experience drooping eyelids, you should tell your consultant.
Although very unlikely, a small percentage of patients may suffer an extreme adverse reaction to Botox. You should seek medical help immediately if you experience difficulty in swallowing and breathing or develop a rash.
What are the advantages of using Botox?
Since its initial introduction, Botox treatment has quickly gained in popularity and is consistently one of the most requested cosmetic procedures. It is a relatively safe treatment for most people with few documented reports of serious complications. The treatment is very simple and quick and almost painless. Because no general anesthetic is required, recovery time is rapid with little or no side effects. The results of the procedure are fully reversible over time as the muscle weakening effect of the Botox eventually wears off.
Individual Botox treatments are relatively cheap and, as the effects last for 3 or 4 months, do not have to be repeated too often. Some patients find that after several sessions, the time between treatments can be increased to about 6 months.
Where should I go to get Botox treatment?
Once you have decided to have Botox treatment it is important to choose the right cosmetic surgeon to perform the procedure. Botox has a proven track record for safety and good results but only when carried out by a reputable practitioner. Choose a fully qualified surgeon who has already carried out many Botox procedures. Look for a clinic where the surgeon is willing to carry out an initial consultation so that you have the chance to ask any questions and thoroughly discuss the implications of the treatment. A good cosmetic surgeon should always be happy to give you lots of information and may be able to show you photographs of past clients and the results of their treatment. It's also a good idea to ask around your friends for personal recommendations.
What else is Botox used for?
Although Botox is most well known as a cosmetic procedure for the reduction of facial lines, it is also used in the treatment of several medical conditions. Botox can be used to reduce muscle spasms and twitching of the neck or eyelids. It has also proved successful in the treatment of excessively sweaty armpits by blocking the chemical transmitters that cause the sweating.
What is Botox?
Botox (Botulinum toxin type A) has been used for over 15 years in the cosmetic surgery industry as a popular treatment for facial wrinkles. It derives from the bacteria Clostridium botulinum, which can be harmful when present in high doses and is the toxin that causes food poisoning. However, small dilute quantities can be injected safely under the skin to act as a muscle relaxant.
How does it work?
Botox is used to treat lines and creases by injecting small amounts into the facial muscles. Normally, chemicals released by nerve cells in the face cause the muscles to tighten, leading to frown lines. Botox blocks these chemical signals causing a slight weakening of the muscle contraction and a smoothing of the skin's appearance. Contrary to popular belief, skillfully applied Botox does not paralyze the facial muscles completely, just relaxes and reduces their response.
What can Botox do for me?
Botox treatment can reduce the appearance of frown lines, forehead wrinkles and crows feet around the eyes. It can also be used to treat creases around the mouth. When performed properly it should have a gentle relaxing effect while still allowing natural expressions like smiling and frowning. Botox treatment will not reduce lines caused by sun damage and may not be fully effective on very deep creases.
Is it safe?
A course of Botox injections is a well established and recognized treatment that is considered to be safe when carried out by a qualified practitioner. There are, however, some groups of people who should not use Botox. These include pregnant and breastfeeding women and anyone suffering from a disease that affects the nerves or muscles. Certain medicines can react with Botox and you should consult your doctor if you are taking antibiotics or drugs to control heartbeat irregularities, Alzheimer's disease or myasthenia gravis (a chronic autoimmune disorder). If you are known to be allergic to any of the ingredients in Botox or if the area to be treated is infected, you should not have the treatment.
What happens during treatment?
First the surgeon will discuss your medical history and assess which areas of your face to treat. A series of small injections will then be directed straight into the facial muscles using a fine needle. You will not need an anesthetic as the injections cause very little pain. The whole procedure should be completed within a matter of minutes.
How quickly will I recover?
As soon as the procedure is completed, you will be able to return to normal activities. Some patients report a slight headache but this should soon pass. Sometimes you will be advised not to lie down for 3 or 4 hours after the procedure as this can encourage the Botox to spread to other areas of the face. You should not rub the treated area for the same reason. Botox usually takes 3 to 7 days to take full effect, after which time visible improvement in facial lines should be noticeable. Your normal facial expressions should still be present. The beneficial effects of Botox usually last for 3 to 6 months.
Are there any side effects?
Side effects of Botox treatment are usually mild. Some patients experience a slight headache for the first 24 hours after injections to the forehead area, especially after their first treatment. Mild bruising of the injected area can also occur. In very rare cases, excess Botox can cause droopy eyelids, a condition known as ptosis. This is unlikely to occur when the treatment is carried out by an experienced cosmetic surgeon and will gradually correct itself as the Botox wears off. If you do experience drooping eyelids, you should tell your consultant.
Although very unlikely, a small percentage of patients may suffer an extreme adverse reaction to Botox. You should seek medical help immediately if you experience difficulty in swallowing and breathing or develop a rash.
What are the advantages of using Botox?
Since its initial introduction, Botox treatment has quickly gained in popularity and is consistently one of the most requested cosmetic procedures. It is a relatively safe treatment for most people with few documented reports of serious complications. The treatment is very simple and quick and almost painless. Because no general anesthetic is required, recovery time is rapid with little or no side effects. The results of the procedure are fully reversible over time as the muscle weakening effect of the Botox eventually wears off.
Individual Botox treatments are relatively cheap and, as the effects last for 3 or 4 months, do not have to be repeated too often. Some patients find that after several sessions, the time between treatments can be increased to about 6 months.
Where should I go to get Botox treatment?
Once you have decided to have Botox treatment it is important to choose the right cosmetic surgeon to perform the procedure. Botox has a proven track record for safety and good results but only when carried out by a reputable practitioner. Choose a fully qualified surgeon who has already carried out many Botox procedures. Look for a clinic where the surgeon is willing to carry out an initial consultation so that you have the chance to ask any questions and thoroughly discuss the implications of the treatment. A good cosmetic surgeon should always be happy to give you lots of information and may be able to show you photographs of past clients and the results of their treatment. It's also a good idea to ask around your friends for personal recommendations.
What else is Botox used for?
Although Botox is most well known as a cosmetic procedure for the reduction of facial lines, it is also used in the treatment of several medical conditions. Botox can be used to reduce muscle spasms and twitching of the neck or eyelids. It has also proved successful in the treatment of excessively sweaty armpits by blocking the chemical transmitters that cause the sweating.
Saturday, October 3, 2009
What is Botox and What Can Botox Do For You?
The main disease that is treated by Botox is called dystonia. It is involuntary contraction of muscles and can occur in the neck, arms, legs, and face. It can occur by itself or from another neurological disorder, such as Parkinson's Disease. It can occur in only one group of muscles or all over the body.
Even though this disorder was discouraging to treat, Botox has made a fairly good solution. It is also used in cases involving spasticity or muscle tightness. When the brain is damaged by a stroke, head injury, multiple sclerosis, etc., the brain may lose the ability to control and relax the muscles.
Sometimes the worst thing about these types of neurological problems is the involuntary muscle tightness, which can be very painful, and which Botox can help relieve. Although most insurance companies won't pay for it, Botox can also alleviate headaches such as migraines. Kassel states "Blumenfeld's reported clinical experience adds to the growing evidence base supporting the clinical application of BoNT-A in a variety of headache types including migraines." Back pain, neck pain, and excessive sweating have also been treated successfully with Botox without any side effects.
The newest and most popular use of Botox is in the cosmetic industry. It is said to be the fastest growing cosmetic procedure in the industry, according to the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery (ASAPS). Even though Botox works for only two to five months, results are apparent within 24 to 48 hours, but must be repeated regularly. It is used to improve mild to severe frown lines by temporarily paralyzing the muscle so it won't move.
One procedure could cost anywhere from one hundred to four hundred dollars. It has also been found to be the best treatment for "frown" wrinkles of the brow between the eye brows, and the "crow's feet" beside the eyes which many women are concerned about. But men also are starting to have the same concerns and are getting the procedure done. Studies have shown that the effects of Botox in males are not as significant as in females.
In a scientific study by Allergan Inc., thirty days after the procedure, females showed an 84.7% improvement in frown lines where as in males the improvement was only 59.2%. The severity of the lines prior to treatment also has a large effect on the results achieved. Despite these results, men can also benefit from this cosmetic correction drug.
The growing popularity with Botox has brought on an even bigger fad called "Botox Parties." These "parties" are organized by practitioners whom buy the product in bulk and arrange get-togethers for clients receiving these treatments. This method was found to be less expensive for the patients.
As in any business, volume comes with discounts in medicine also. The way these "parties" work are very simple. A group of patients are invited and mingle in a waiting area with some refreshments. One by one, they are called into a private exam room. He or she pays a fee and signs an informed consent agreement, and fifteen minutes later they are back at the party.
Only about one tenth of a teaspoon is used for a typical procedure and anesthetics are rarely needed but readily available. These parties are usually by invitation only. Even though this sounds wonderful, you must be sure a qualified doctor is performing the procedure and that they are trained and qualified in cosmetic face surgery. You must also avoid alcohol and remain upright for a few hours after the procedure is done.
The main concern the FDA has is that Botox has the potential to be abused. "But we're going to see some strange aesthetic outcomes when these procedures are performed by physicians who haven't done them before," says Dr. Richard G. Glogau of UCLA Department of Epidemiology: School of Public Health. ASAPS has recently discovered that treatments have been dispensed in salons, gyms, hotel rooms, home-based offices, and other retail venues which could result in misuse, inappropriate dosages, unsanitary conditions, and can run the risk of improper technique.
With all of the hype about Botox and all of its different uses, it surely is an impressive drug for cosmetic purposes. Although there is no chance of contracting botulism, there are a few risks with the procedure. It is important to remember to go check with your doctor before getting Botox. As with any good thing, there is a down side to the procedure.
If someone has a history of peripheral motor neuropathic diseases such as amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, and neuromuscular junctional disorders such as Lambert-Eaton syndrome, then the patient should not get the procedure done according to studies done by Allergan Inc. As stated by the scientists at Allergan Inc. "There has been a case report where a patient developed aspiration pneumonia and died subsequently to the finding of dysphagia."
Therefore, it is important to take caution with new procedures. In normal cases, the safe use of Botox Cosmetic depends greatly on how the drug is stored, selection of a correct dose, and proper techniques. The physician must be familiar with the neuromuscular anatomy and/or the orbital anatomy of the area being treated before the procedure as per Allergan Inc.
There have been cases of patients suffering severe dysphagia and respiratory problems with typical sized doses of Botox Cosmetic. If the wrong muscles are treated, a person could have droopy eyelids for several weeks before they return to normal. Some other common side effects include headaches, nausea, flu type symptoms, double vision, and respiratory infection. Less frequent effects include pain, redness, and muscle weakness.
Even thought the results do not last forever, people are still willing to go through the procedures over and again just to accomplish the look of fewer wrinkles. It is a less invasive way to get results quickly and without scaring after each procedure which makes it virtually unnoticeable to everyone.
Even though this disorder was discouraging to treat, Botox has made a fairly good solution. It is also used in cases involving spasticity or muscle tightness. When the brain is damaged by a stroke, head injury, multiple sclerosis, etc., the brain may lose the ability to control and relax the muscles.
Sometimes the worst thing about these types of neurological problems is the involuntary muscle tightness, which can be very painful, and which Botox can help relieve. Although most insurance companies won't pay for it, Botox can also alleviate headaches such as migraines. Kassel states "Blumenfeld's reported clinical experience adds to the growing evidence base supporting the clinical application of BoNT-A in a variety of headache types including migraines." Back pain, neck pain, and excessive sweating have also been treated successfully with Botox without any side effects.
The newest and most popular use of Botox is in the cosmetic industry. It is said to be the fastest growing cosmetic procedure in the industry, according to the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery (ASAPS). Even though Botox works for only two to five months, results are apparent within 24 to 48 hours, but must be repeated regularly. It is used to improve mild to severe frown lines by temporarily paralyzing the muscle so it won't move.
One procedure could cost anywhere from one hundred to four hundred dollars. It has also been found to be the best treatment for "frown" wrinkles of the brow between the eye brows, and the "crow's feet" beside the eyes which many women are concerned about. But men also are starting to have the same concerns and are getting the procedure done. Studies have shown that the effects of Botox in males are not as significant as in females.
In a scientific study by Allergan Inc., thirty days after the procedure, females showed an 84.7% improvement in frown lines where as in males the improvement was only 59.2%. The severity of the lines prior to treatment also has a large effect on the results achieved. Despite these results, men can also benefit from this cosmetic correction drug.
The growing popularity with Botox has brought on an even bigger fad called "Botox Parties." These "parties" are organized by practitioners whom buy the product in bulk and arrange get-togethers for clients receiving these treatments. This method was found to be less expensive for the patients.
As in any business, volume comes with discounts in medicine also. The way these "parties" work are very simple. A group of patients are invited and mingle in a waiting area with some refreshments. One by one, they are called into a private exam room. He or she pays a fee and signs an informed consent agreement, and fifteen minutes later they are back at the party.
Only about one tenth of a teaspoon is used for a typical procedure and anesthetics are rarely needed but readily available. These parties are usually by invitation only. Even though this sounds wonderful, you must be sure a qualified doctor is performing the procedure and that they are trained and qualified in cosmetic face surgery. You must also avoid alcohol and remain upright for a few hours after the procedure is done.
The main concern the FDA has is that Botox has the potential to be abused. "But we're going to see some strange aesthetic outcomes when these procedures are performed by physicians who haven't done them before," says Dr. Richard G. Glogau of UCLA Department of Epidemiology: School of Public Health. ASAPS has recently discovered that treatments have been dispensed in salons, gyms, hotel rooms, home-based offices, and other retail venues which could result in misuse, inappropriate dosages, unsanitary conditions, and can run the risk of improper technique.
With all of the hype about Botox and all of its different uses, it surely is an impressive drug for cosmetic purposes. Although there is no chance of contracting botulism, there are a few risks with the procedure. It is important to remember to go check with your doctor before getting Botox. As with any good thing, there is a down side to the procedure.
If someone has a history of peripheral motor neuropathic diseases such as amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, and neuromuscular junctional disorders such as Lambert-Eaton syndrome, then the patient should not get the procedure done according to studies done by Allergan Inc. As stated by the scientists at Allergan Inc. "There has been a case report where a patient developed aspiration pneumonia and died subsequently to the finding of dysphagia."
Therefore, it is important to take caution with new procedures. In normal cases, the safe use of Botox Cosmetic depends greatly on how the drug is stored, selection of a correct dose, and proper techniques. The physician must be familiar with the neuromuscular anatomy and/or the orbital anatomy of the area being treated before the procedure as per Allergan Inc.
There have been cases of patients suffering severe dysphagia and respiratory problems with typical sized doses of Botox Cosmetic. If the wrong muscles are treated, a person could have droopy eyelids for several weeks before they return to normal. Some other common side effects include headaches, nausea, flu type symptoms, double vision, and respiratory infection. Less frequent effects include pain, redness, and muscle weakness.
Even thought the results do not last forever, people are still willing to go through the procedures over and again just to accomplish the look of fewer wrinkles. It is a less invasive way to get results quickly and without scaring after each procedure which makes it virtually unnoticeable to everyone.
Friday, October 2, 2009
Alternative To Botox
However, you will want to make yourself as knowledgeable on each Botox alternative as you can, so that you can decide whether any of them are better than the actual Botox procedure in your opinion.
Botox Alternative #1 – Protox
The first Botox alternative is Protox, which is basically the same idea as Botox only without the injections. Basically: Protox reduces the depth of wrinkles around the eyes that are caused by the contraction of the muscles of facial expressions; prevents aging of the skin induced by repeated facial movements mediated by excessive catecholamines release; extends the life of Botox injections reducing the number of procedures and thus saving you money; and Protox is applied as a gel, one which hydrates and moisturizes.
Protox has in fact been shown to reduce the depth of wrinkles by up to 50% in just 30 days, and the price of it is actually quite reasonable. As well, in recent tests, no other Botox alternative was able to outperform Protox in regards to the act of reversing the signs of aging and minimizing wrinkle lines.
Botox Alternative #2 – Face Lift
There are many more possible risks and complications with this type of procedure, which is a fact that is incredibly important to know before venturing down this path. This is certainly a much more severe alternative to botox treatment, as well as more costly, however if you are the type of individual that wishes to have a more permanent and obvious result, and as this proceedure generally achieves this end then this may be just the option you are looking for.
Most cosmetic face lift surgery is used to help improve some of the damage from aging, such as, for instance, loosening of the facial skin where it has become tight and creasing around the nose and mouth; from lift types such as deep plane lifts to feather lifts, almost any variation and extent of surgery is available in order to meet the needs of your facial improvement goals, at a cost.
Obviously, it is completely up to you with regards as to which type of procedure you proceed to have done, or if you feel that the regular Botox treatment would be best for you; just remember to inform yourself on all of the available procedures first. Importantly by doing this step you can make the right decision for yourself so that you will be at the very least comfortable, at ease, and satisfied with the results your treatment brings you. You may require several treatments so your judgement may need to wait till the end of the treatment cycle.
Botox Alternative #3 –Prevention as an alternative
I know this may be self destroying when it comes to what I am about to say on my site but...I would not feel happy or upfront if I omitted this one very important point concerning Botox and the requirements of its' use.
In most age caused problems that are in need of repairs, in this case, using botox, their need would be greatly deminished with greater care and prevention of our person especially our skin over time. What I mean by this, and whom I am directing this at, is especially the young. By protecting your youthful skin especially when in the sun and against the use of tropical toxins, either externally, i.e. creams, lotions etc, or from the enviroment, i.e. dry air exposure etc, you will surely find, as you age, you will not develope as many skin problems that ultimately may require botox or botox alternatives to the same degree as those with wrinkled saging skin as those of us who neglected this care. Not really our fault though. The information available to nearly all now was not readily available to us in our youth.
So enjoy your youth but please take some basic cares concerning your overall health. Those of us that need the odd little bit of help will surely use that help intelligently. Not to worry though there is always botox or a good botox alternative out there for us.
Botox Alternative #1 – Protox
The first Botox alternative is Protox, which is basically the same idea as Botox only without the injections. Basically: Protox reduces the depth of wrinkles around the eyes that are caused by the contraction of the muscles of facial expressions; prevents aging of the skin induced by repeated facial movements mediated by excessive catecholamines release; extends the life of Botox injections reducing the number of procedures and thus saving you money; and Protox is applied as a gel, one which hydrates and moisturizes.
Protox has in fact been shown to reduce the depth of wrinkles by up to 50% in just 30 days, and the price of it is actually quite reasonable. As well, in recent tests, no other Botox alternative was able to outperform Protox in regards to the act of reversing the signs of aging and minimizing wrinkle lines.
Botox Alternative #2 – Face Lift
There are many more possible risks and complications with this type of procedure, which is a fact that is incredibly important to know before venturing down this path. This is certainly a much more severe alternative to botox treatment, as well as more costly, however if you are the type of individual that wishes to have a more permanent and obvious result, and as this proceedure generally achieves this end then this may be just the option you are looking for.
Most cosmetic face lift surgery is used to help improve some of the damage from aging, such as, for instance, loosening of the facial skin where it has become tight and creasing around the nose and mouth; from lift types such as deep plane lifts to feather lifts, almost any variation and extent of surgery is available in order to meet the needs of your facial improvement goals, at a cost.
Obviously, it is completely up to you with regards as to which type of procedure you proceed to have done, or if you feel that the regular Botox treatment would be best for you; just remember to inform yourself on all of the available procedures first. Importantly by doing this step you can make the right decision for yourself so that you will be at the very least comfortable, at ease, and satisfied with the results your treatment brings you. You may require several treatments so your judgement may need to wait till the end of the treatment cycle.
Botox Alternative #3 –Prevention as an alternative
I know this may be self destroying when it comes to what I am about to say on my site but...I would not feel happy or upfront if I omitted this one very important point concerning Botox and the requirements of its' use.
In most age caused problems that are in need of repairs, in this case, using botox, their need would be greatly deminished with greater care and prevention of our person especially our skin over time. What I mean by this, and whom I am directing this at, is especially the young. By protecting your youthful skin especially when in the sun and against the use of tropical toxins, either externally, i.e. creams, lotions etc, or from the enviroment, i.e. dry air exposure etc, you will surely find, as you age, you will not develope as many skin problems that ultimately may require botox or botox alternatives to the same degree as those with wrinkled saging skin as those of us who neglected this care. Not really our fault though. The information available to nearly all now was not readily available to us in our youth.
So enjoy your youth but please take some basic cares concerning your overall health. Those of us that need the odd little bit of help will surely use that help intelligently. Not to worry though there is always botox or a good botox alternative out there for us.
Thursday, October 1, 2009
The Emergence of Botox as A Headache Treatment
Botolinum toxin A has been around for about three decades, but its many benefits to the health of patients taking it are just starting to surface.
Medical doctors, especially in the United States, started injecting what is more popularly known as botox to patients who suffer from an eye disorder known as strabismus. Strabismus is characterized by an abnormal misaligning of the eyes, leading to crossed eyes.
In 1989, the US Food and Drug Administration approved the use of botox as a treatment for eye muscle disorders like uncontrolled twitching. Thus, the use of botox in the medical profession became wide spread.
But like many other drugs, the potential of botox has expanded beyond its original purpose. In the recent years, the drug has also been discovered to treat the awkward excessive underarm sweating and more importantly, to get rid and prevent wrinkles in the face.
Cosmetic treatment
It is its use as cosmetic treatment that botox's popularity rapidly shot up. From the United States, cosmetic surgeons and practitioners from across the globe started injecting botox to vanity-conscious patients who aim to prevent the onset of ageing in their faces.
Many ageing ladies, and several men as well, prefer to use botox to preventive premature and timely ageing wrinkles. It is because unlike other forms of treatment, botox does not involve the use of scalpels and surgical procedures.
The doctor would just need to inject the drug to several specific areas of the face and the neck for its effect to linger for at most six months. The satisfying result on earlier patients also has helped make the popularity of botox even more evident.
Botox as headache treatment
But did you know that recently, another used of the drug has been discovered accidentally? Yes, aside from helping patients prevent and control ageing wrinkles and eye muscle spasms, botox has been discovered as a potent drug to treat severe headaches.
In the medical profession, headaches were largely dealt by neurologists who specifically focus on the illness' diagnosis and cure. But until recently, plastic surgeons were accidentally linked to a longer-term treatment of headaches or migraines.
Several clinical tests have proven that the patients who were injected with the botox treatment for eye spasms and aesthetic purposes were spared from the onset and occasional attacks of migraines.
Surveys covering botox patients also confirm the notion. Those patients emphasized that after using botox, they have not experienced severe and even mild headaches, for at least six months.
Specific injection points
However, doctors note that to be able to treat headache episodes, botox has to be injected in specific areas of the body. Particularly, studies and reports of patients indicate that botox has to be injected in any of the following areas: the side and the back of the head, the forehead, the eyes and the muscles of the brow.
Other than the specified areas, botox injections are not found to lead to the prevention and cure of headaches. Those who suffer migraines on a daily, weekly and regularized basis are singled out as the primary beneficiaries of the new botox purpose.
It is logical that from the start of this new discovery, botox would further become popular not just for beauty-conscious people, but also for those who have grown tired of consulting to neurologists for the treatment of headaches.
Surpassing neurologists' prescriptions
The traditional headache treatments have almost become obsolete with the emergence of botox as a headache treatment. Thus, neurolgists' patients have expressed relief that they have been given alternative treatments than the conventional drugs for headaches like the sumatriptan, or more commonly known as Imitrex.
Side effects
Almost all medicines and treatments have side effects, and of course, botox is of no exception. However, the side effects linked to botox treatment are limited to inability to move the brow muscles, which to some patients is good because frown lines in the forehead can be alleviated.
Other than that, there is no other side effect linked to botox intake.
Botox has truly become extremely useful in the medical world. It is no wonder that the drug's popularity continuously rises up as years go by. Those who are afraid of needles are now given more reasons not to fear injections anymore.
Medical doctors, especially in the United States, started injecting what is more popularly known as botox to patients who suffer from an eye disorder known as strabismus. Strabismus is characterized by an abnormal misaligning of the eyes, leading to crossed eyes.
In 1989, the US Food and Drug Administration approved the use of botox as a treatment for eye muscle disorders like uncontrolled twitching. Thus, the use of botox in the medical profession became wide spread.
But like many other drugs, the potential of botox has expanded beyond its original purpose. In the recent years, the drug has also been discovered to treat the awkward excessive underarm sweating and more importantly, to get rid and prevent wrinkles in the face.
Cosmetic treatment
It is its use as cosmetic treatment that botox's popularity rapidly shot up. From the United States, cosmetic surgeons and practitioners from across the globe started injecting botox to vanity-conscious patients who aim to prevent the onset of ageing in their faces.
Many ageing ladies, and several men as well, prefer to use botox to preventive premature and timely ageing wrinkles. It is because unlike other forms of treatment, botox does not involve the use of scalpels and surgical procedures.
The doctor would just need to inject the drug to several specific areas of the face and the neck for its effect to linger for at most six months. The satisfying result on earlier patients also has helped make the popularity of botox even more evident.
Botox as headache treatment
But did you know that recently, another used of the drug has been discovered accidentally? Yes, aside from helping patients prevent and control ageing wrinkles and eye muscle spasms, botox has been discovered as a potent drug to treat severe headaches.
In the medical profession, headaches were largely dealt by neurologists who specifically focus on the illness' diagnosis and cure. But until recently, plastic surgeons were accidentally linked to a longer-term treatment of headaches or migraines.
Several clinical tests have proven that the patients who were injected with the botox treatment for eye spasms and aesthetic purposes were spared from the onset and occasional attacks of migraines.
Surveys covering botox patients also confirm the notion. Those patients emphasized that after using botox, they have not experienced severe and even mild headaches, for at least six months.
Specific injection points
However, doctors note that to be able to treat headache episodes, botox has to be injected in specific areas of the body. Particularly, studies and reports of patients indicate that botox has to be injected in any of the following areas: the side and the back of the head, the forehead, the eyes and the muscles of the brow.
Other than the specified areas, botox injections are not found to lead to the prevention and cure of headaches. Those who suffer migraines on a daily, weekly and regularized basis are singled out as the primary beneficiaries of the new botox purpose.
It is logical that from the start of this new discovery, botox would further become popular not just for beauty-conscious people, but also for those who have grown tired of consulting to neurologists for the treatment of headaches.
Surpassing neurologists' prescriptions
The traditional headache treatments have almost become obsolete with the emergence of botox as a headache treatment. Thus, neurolgists' patients have expressed relief that they have been given alternative treatments than the conventional drugs for headaches like the sumatriptan, or more commonly known as Imitrex.
Side effects
Almost all medicines and treatments have side effects, and of course, botox is of no exception. However, the side effects linked to botox treatment are limited to inability to move the brow muscles, which to some patients is good because frown lines in the forehead can be alleviated.
Other than that, there is no other side effect linked to botox intake.
Botox has truly become extremely useful in the medical world. It is no wonder that the drug's popularity continuously rises up as years go by. Those who are afraid of needles are now given more reasons not to fear injections anymore.
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