People like to look as good as they can for as long as they can, which has driven the beauty industry to create solutions for aging. One such solution is called Botulinum toxin, or Botox. It is created by a specific type of bacteria. In small doses, this is used to smooth out wrinkles and fine lines. Dr. Susan MacLennan offers Botox to her patients that want to achieve a more youthful look.
What is Botox?
Botox is an FDA-approved purified form of botulinum toxin. It has been cleared for medical and cosmetic use for decades. Botox is used to treat migraines, hyperhidrosis (excessive sweating), eye spasms, and wrinkles. It helps to freeze the muscles in the area used to stop them from contracting. Botulinum toxin is used in many different injectables, namely Botox, Dysport, and Jeuveau.
How does Botox Work?
Botox works by blocking nerve signals in the muscle which freeze the muscle when it is injected. The muscles begin to relax because they are not constantly contracting. The wrinkles and fine lines begin to disappear. It lasts for 3-6 months before it begins to wear off, allowing the muscles to move again and the wrinkles to come back. Botox is injected in very small doses, which prevents the muscles from contracting. For the muscles to contract properly, the nerves release a neurotransmitter (or chemical messenger) where the nerve endings encounter the muscle cells. The neurotransmitter acetylcholine will cause the muscles to contract. However, when Botox is injected, it prevents the acetylcholine from being released. It causes a reduction in muscle control, which allows the muscles to relax. This allows for smoother, younger-looking skin.
Does Botox Work To Reduce the Appearance of Wrinkles?
Wrinkles are relaxed when people are injected with Botox, and it is one of the top treatments for anti-aging. It is used to reduce facial wrinkles specifically.
What are the risks and side effects?
Most people tolerate Botox well, but there are a few side effects that people can have if they are predisposed to react to it. Approximately one percent of the people receiving the Botulinum toxin develop antibodies to the toxin that prevents it from working effectively. The toxin can also cause some side effects like mild pain, headaches, nausea, weakness of the muscles, temporary drooping of the upper lid, and swelling. Dr. MacLennan will go over all of the details of Botox and it’s possible side effects with you during your Botox consultation.
Who Can Get Injections?
People looking for Botox injections are required to be at least 18 years old, and you should be generally healthy overall. Make sure you don’t have weakness in the facial muscles, deep facial features, skin issues, or neuromuscular diseases. You should not receive Botox if you are pregnant or nursing.
What Else Does Botox Do?
Botox is also used to treat several different medical conditions beyond mere aesthetic applications. It is currently being researched for treatment to prevent chronic migraines, neck and shoulder spasms, crossed eyes, post-stroke spasticity, excessive sweating, spasms of the eyelid, and hemifacial spasms.
Where Can I Get Botox Injections?
If you are looking for Botox injections, consider consulting with a plastic surgeon at Mountain Lake Plastic Surgery. You should make sure you consult with a board-certified plastic surgeon before getting the procedure.
Request a Consultation
Mountain Lake Plastic Surgery is led by Dr. MacLennan, who graduated from Dartmouth and completed her residency at the University of Cincinnati. She also completed a fellowship in cosmetic surgery when she was in Miami. To start on your Botox journey request a consultation with Dr. MacLennan today.
