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Botulinum toxin injections (BTX), often referred to by the
product names Botox or Myobloc®, are biological toxins
(botulinum toxin) transformed into a therapeutic agent. Work
with BTX began in the late 1960s to treat neurological disorders.
Today, BTX is used for the treatment of frown lines, forehead
furrows, "crow’s feet," lines and wrinkles
of the lower face, and even nasal muscles (to decrease nostril
flaring). BTX injections have proven to be a very popular nonsurgical
cosmetic procedure. Aesthetic plastic surgeons have found that
the type of lines and wrinkles that respond to BTX injections
are those caused by the muscles—specifically those muscles
that contract during facial expressions such as frowning or
squinting.
Technique:
The patient is asked to contract the muscles in the area being treated so the
surgeon can determine the proper location for injection. In most cases, BTX is
injected directly into the muscle with a tiny needle. It takes a few days to
realize the effect of BTX injections.
Benefits:
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No downtime. Patients can immediately
resume normal activities. |
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Long experience has proven BTX to be
safe. To date, no systemic complications associated
with BTX injections have been documented. |
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May be beneficial for treatment of migraine
headaches. |
Other Considerations:
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BTX injections are a temporary solution
for the treatment of wrinkles. The effects last from
3-4 months and require repeat treatments. |
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Possible side effects include local
numbness, swelling, bruising, or a burning sensation
during injection. Some patients have reported temporary
headache and nausea. Most complications are of short
duration and can be avoided with proper injection techniques. |
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A small percentage of patients are reported
to experience no improvement at all. |
ASAPS Position:
The American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery (ASAPS) maintains that BTX
injections for aesthetic purposes appear to be safe and effective. Patients who
show early signs of aging, as well as those who may not be suitable candidates
for more extensive aesthetic facial surgery, may be good candidates for this
procedure. Certain medications (some antibiotics, anti-inflammatories, or aspirin)
and even some vitamins and herbs may increase the potency of BTX and may increase
bleeding and bruising at the time of injection. Therefore, patients should be
candid with their surgeon about all medications and supplements. Pregnant or
nursing women should postpone undergoing this procedure. It is not known whether
injection of BTX has any effect on a fetus or whether it is found in breast milk. |
Content provided by The American Society
for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery (ASAPS).
For advertising info, please contact Terry McGovern terry.mcgovern@latimes.com
at (213) 473-2599
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