Botox for cosmetic use is very safe. Many patients are discouraged by the fact that Botox is, in fact, a toxin– botulinum toxin to be exact. But Botox has been around for a long time, and has been used for many other purposes in the body besides treating wrinkles. It was first used to treat strabismus, or a misalignment of the eyes, by injecting small amounts into the muscles that control eye movements. Further benefits were extended to patients who had facial, neck, shoulder, and vocal cord spasms.
In 1988, the drugmaker, Allergan, acquired the rights to distribute botulinum toxin type A, and shortly thereafter, Allergan changed the drug’s name to the catchy “Botox”, which we’re all familiar with. As further research continued, Botox was used for bladder spasms, excessive sweating, migraines, and even cerebral palsy. But the most significant discovery occurred by accident when an ophthalmologist, Dr. Jean Carruthers, noticed that her patients who suffered from involuntary blinking or spasming of the eyelids (blepharospasm), and who were treated with Botox were also starting to lose their frown lines. In 1992, she and her dermatologist husband published a study stating that Botox was a simple and safe procedure for the treatment of brow wrinkles.
Botox usage took off, and by 1997 Botox usage had spiked so high that the country’s supply temporarily ran out. In 2002, the glabellar region (11’s or frown lines) received FDA approval for treatment with Botox. Today, botulinum neurotoxin injection is the most commonly performed cosmetic procedure in the world, and is used to treat crow’s feet, forehead lines, gummy smile, and a downturned mouth. When injected conservatively, Botox will help soften wrinkles without making the face appear frozen. When used early on, Botox can have a preemptive effect, by preventing deeper, etched wrinkles from forming.
One of the most popular uses for Botox is for the vertical creases between the eyebrows, as these lines may give the false impression of anger. It is also one of the first areas of the face to reveal early aging. Injection of Botox temporarily paralyzes the muscle, with effects lasting approximately 3-4 months. The procedure takes seconds, and approximately 3-5 days following treatment with Botox, patients report a more pleasant, well-rested appearance. There is even evidence to support Botox’s use in treating depression!
Botox for men, or “Brotox”, has become quite popular over the last several years, owing to the fact that men are also interested in maintaining their youthful look.
If you are interested in receiving a treatment with Botox, call Dr. Rogal’s office to schedule a consultation.
Image courtesy of Allergan
