Botox works by blocking the receptors (acetylcholine) to the muscle. When the nerve sends signals to the muscles to move or contract, the acetylcholine is then released into the tissues. This is when the muscle has no idea it is supposed to move, thus becoming paralyzed but not through the nerve damage. The feeling of numbness is only temporary.
The acetylcholine blockade is irreversible and starts within two days. The clinical effects of the injection become noticeable between 5 to 10 days. Over the three to 6 month period, the muscle gradually develops new receptor sites and can contract again.
If the area to be injected is small, it may be necessary to send quick electric impulses to ensure the appropriate muscles are receiving the injection. The cosmetic doctor uses a very fine needle to carry out this procedure. Some patients experience minor or temporary discomfort during the session. The injected medication does not cause any irritation once the treatment is complete.
Botulinum toxin’s main goal is to smooth out the lines and wrinkles of the aging face. As people get older and lose the elasticity in their skin, permanent lines form around their mouths, eyes, and chin. These wrinkles are even more noticeable when you smile. Botox does not get rid of these lines, but helps soften them.
This cosmetic procedure is more than just a beauty treatment and is useful in treating many medical conditions ranging from chronic headaches, excessive sweating, and eye squints. There are also other illnesses that botulinum toxin can effectively treat some of which include: severe neck and shoulder muscle spasms, migraines, crossed eyes, post-stroke limb spasticity, and incontinence.
The botulinum toxin is administered to the patient by diluting the powder in sodium chloride. This mixture is then injected directly into neuromuscular tissue. To take full effect, the toxin requires around 24 to 72 hours, which is the time necessary to paralyze the muscle. These injections are generally well tolerated and the side effects are reported to be minimal.
Before undergoing this treatment, your cosmetic doctor will first examine you at an initial consultation in order to determine whether you are the right candidate for the procedure. Once you have completed your first session, you will be re-evaluated every 3 to 6 months to ensure you can undergo repeat injections. There is a slight chance that you may develop antibodies that cause botulinum toxin to be less effective. To lessen the risk of developing antibodies, you are required to follow strict instructions from the cosmetic doctor. Some of the guidelines include restricting the frequency of injections as well as the dosage of the medication. Only an experienced and qualified doctor will perform your botulinum toxin treatment once he or she has completed your evaluation.
Divina Averilla
