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Botox ® is the registered product name given to botulinum toxin type A. This form of non-invasive skin treatment is best known for its ability to smooth and reduce many trouble spots on the face including wrinkles across the forehead, crow’s feet, thick neck fold lines and frown lines. Although the fix is temporary, the results are quite dramatic for many individuals leaving the face looking invigorated and younger.
The protein referred to as botulinum toxin type A is a natural product of the bacterium Clostridium botulinum. This is the same protein that is often the culprit in food poisoning cases. However, in a controlled environment and in small injectable doses the toxin works in a different matter; rather than causing vomiting and digestion problems, the results are fresh, younger looking skin.
The protein is injected in the amount of approximately one tenth of a teaspoon. The release of acetylcholine that normally makes muscles contract is blocked by the protein, leaving the affected muscles paralyzed and unable to contract. The consequence is fewer wrinkles, crow’s eyes and frown lines. The results are usually visible within three to seven days of treatment and can last anywhere between three and four months at which time the muscles begin to regain their normal function.
Botox Injection Precautions
The cosmetic procedure was approved for use by the FDA in 2002 and has replaced breast enhancement surgery as the most popular youth-chasing treatment in the U.S. today. Several precautions should be taken when seeking a Botox ® treatment. According to The American Society for Dermatologic Surgery:
Ensure that the practitioner administering the treatment is trained and qualified to perform cosmetic facial skin surgery. Ask as many questions as needed until complete comfort and trust is felt with the practitioner and the procedure. Understand all risks and benefits associated with the treatment. Always insist on having the treatment performed in a medical setting using sterile techniques. Avoid consuming alcohol and remain in an upright position for several hours after treatment.
Botox Injection risks
Risks and downsides involved in Botox ® treatment include the following:
In some instances the procedure is being administered by unqualified persons. Risks of being injected with inappropriate levels of the protein and/or receiving treatment without professional, sterile techniques are increased. If too much of the protein is injected, or if it is injected in the wrong areas the individual may have to deal with areas of sagging and drooping skin and muscles. This unintentional side effect is usually temporary and only lasts a few weeks. In some cases, minor side effects have been noted such as headache, flu like symptoms, nausea and respiratory infections. The treatment must be repeated on a routine basis in order to retain a young, smooth looking face.
Insurance does not generally cover the cost of Botox ® treatment for cosmetic purposes. Currently, the average cost per injection is $350. It is very common for each treatment to consist of more than one injection, each at a different site on the face targeting various wrinkle and frown lines.
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Botox Injections 