Botulinumtoxin

 

Botulinumtoxin

Botulinumtoxin A (Botox®, Dysport®, Xeomin®) is a natural substance that has been used for years in many fields of medicine. For example, Botulinumtoxin A (BTX) has been successfully used to treat migraines and hyperhidrosis axillaris (excessive perspiration). Injections can also correct pronounced wrinkles on the forehead and brow as well as crows’ feet. However, BTW can only smooth wrinkles caused by muscle contractions, and is not suitable for all types of wrinkles. In certain situations, such as with wrinkles on the brow, BTX is sometimes combined with an additional substance to obtain better results.
The effects appear slowly after 2 to 3 days and last for 3 to 6 months before re-injection is required to prevent the return of wrinkles.

 

What is Botox® and what are its effects

BTX® is a naturally occurring bacterial protein. Medical researchers discovered that injecting a hundredfold dilution of the toxin blocks the glands that produce the hormones responsible for muscle contractions. When injected into a muscle, it targets the nerve impulses there and blocks them. This can prevent the occurrence and intensification of common wrinkles on the forehead and brow and crows’ feet as well as excessive perspiration. Other nerve impulses such as touch and skin sensation are normally not affected.

 

What is the procedure

The Botulinumtoxin A solution is injected directly into or around the muscle with a fine needle. Not a risk-free treatment

Side effects and complications are rare.

As with all types of dermal injection, the following reactions may occur in rare cases:
– Swelling of the eyelids (at first)
- -Slight bruising
- Eyebrow asymmetry
- Skin irritation
- Reddening at the injection site.

These side effects subside after a few days.

Uneven treatment of wrinkles can result in a temporarily asymmetrical facial expression. This can be corrected by re-injecting BTX® within the following two weeks. Pronounced effects in the eye area can result in temporary drooping of the eyelid.

 

Important to note before treatment

Avoid taking certain blood-thinning medications such as Aspirin, Aspro, ThromboASS, Thomapyrin, etc. during the week preceding treatment. Some patients find it helpful to place ice packs on the treated area before and after treatment.