Botox FAQ
Botox is made from a neurotoxin. Doesn’t that make it dangerous?
While Botox is in fact made from a neurotoxin – Botulinum toxin, which is produced by an overgrowth of the bacteria C. botulinum – it is not dangerous when administered properly by a licensed, experienced, medical professional. This is because unlike cases in which large amounts of the toxin are consumed and then circulate through the body (such as in cases of botulism, which is caused by the consumption of food that is contaminated with this same toxin), Botox treatments are limited to very small micro doses of the substance and injected superficially to target very specific muscles.
How does Botox work?
The toxin that serves as the active ingredient in Botox paralyzes muscles by blocking the nerves from sending the signals they need to move; while this can be deadly on a systemic level, preventing someone from being able to move or even breath, it can have a very beneficial effect in terms of preventing wrinkles from forming, for example, by stopping the movement of certain facial muscles around the forehead, eyes, and mouth.
Does it Hurt to Get Botox?
Botox is administered via injection and while an experienced provider is usually quite skilled in injecting products like Botox without causing pain, it is possible that you may experience some discomfort at the injection site either during or after the injection. This is usually quite minimal.
How long do the effects of Botox last?
Botox usually lasts for about four months. Once it wears off, which happens slowly rather than all at once, it will be necessary to get another treatment to continue to see the benefits that Botox provides.
How Soon does it Start to Work?
The effects of Botox can usually be seen within two to four days following injection. If you don’t see immediate results, don’t worry – this is normal (while you may expect it, given the effects of Botox on nerves, you also won’t feel any numbness in your face; Botox stops nerves from making muscles move but it doesn’t impede sensitivity).
Is it Safe to Get Botox during Pregnancy?
It is not currently recommended to undergo Botox treatments during pregnancy due to the very small risk of systemic effects taking place.
What are the Side Effects of Botox?
The main side effects of Botox include possible pain, swelling, and/or bruising at the injection site, all of which usually subsides within a few hours to days. If the product migrates beyond the targeted area, it can freeze other muscles that were not intended; this can result in drooping eyelids, uneven eyebrows, and changes to one’s smile or mouth at rest.
Can Botox Treat Other Conditions?
Yes, Botox is used to treat a whole range of medical programs, including spastic limb disorders, migraines, overactive bladder, excessive underarm sweating, eyelid spasms, and various other disorders and conditions.
Can Botox Be Used to Treat Medical Problems in Children?
Yes, Botox can be safely and effectively used to treat medical conditions in children above the age of two as well as in adults. As in all cases, it must be administered by a licensed, experienced, medical professional who is trained to inject Botox.