Botox (Botulinum toxin) injections relax the muscles in your face to smooth out lines and wrinkles, such as crow’s feet and frown lines.
How Is Botox Used?
The most common reason doctors use to reduce the appearance of face wrinkles. But can help treat other conditions, such as:
- Severe underarm sweating (hyperhidrosis)
- Cervical dystonia, a neurological disorder that causes severe neck and shoulder muscle spasms
- Blinking that you can’t control (blepharospasm)
- Eyes that point in different directions (strabismus)
- Chronic migraine
- Overactive bladder
How Does Botox Work?
Botox blocks signals from the nerves to the muscles. The injected muscle can’t contract. That makes wrinkles relax and soften.
Is most often used on forehead lines, crow’s feet (lines around the eye), and frown lines.won’t help with wrinkles caused by sun damage or gravity.
How Is a Botox Procedure Done?
Takes only a few minutes. You won’t need anesthesia. The provider uses a small needle to inject Botox into specific muscles with only minor discomfort.
It generally takes 7 to 14 days to take full effect. It’s best to avoid alcohol starting at least 1 week before the procedure. You should also stop taking aspirin and anti-inflammatory medications 2 weeks before treatment to help prevent bruising.
How Long Does a Botox Shot Last?
The effects will last 3 to 6 months. As muscle action slowly returns, the lines and wrinkles begin to reappear and need to be treated again. The lines and wrinkles often appear less severe with time because the muscles are shrinking.
When you cannot have Botox
In certain circumstances are not recommended, including if:
- you have a skin infection
- you’re unwell in any way
- you have a neuromuscular condition like myasthenia gravis
- you’re taking certain medicines
- you’re pregnant or breastfeeding
At Amrita Medical Center, our staff is happy to answer any of your questions and help you decide the right fit for you. We even offer same day appointments for your convenience. Contact us here!