Clive Anderson - AT THE DERMATOLOGIST Botox Magic is the theme
of the marketing campaign
by Allegan, the US manufacturers of Botox Cosmetic.
The ad goes on to show the
smiling unlined face of a very young looking lady and
continues "its not magic
its Botox"
IN 1990 the first paper was published reporting the use of Botulinum toxin type A (Botox) for cosmetic purposes. Since that time Botox has become an increasingly popular therapeutic option for the management of wrinkles on the face. In 2001 Botox became the most popular non-surgical procedure in the United States. The cosmetic indications for Botox currently include the reduction of dynamic wrinkles and the treatment of excessive sweating of the palms and underarm area. Indications are that the product may also prove useful in treating migraine headaches. Botox works by causing a chemical denervation of some muscles resulting in a temporary flaccid paralysis of these muscles. The paralysis lasts 3-5 months. How does that help with wrinkles on the face? Some of the first signs of ageing often are wrinkles appearing around our eyes, forehead and lips. These wrinkles are associated with the facial muscles used for expression. We use these muscles when we smile, laugh, squint or frown. As we grow older these lines become deeper and more noticeable. These are called dynamic wrinkles and they can portray a tired or more aged appearance than we are comfortable with. The central frown line between our eyebrows is most often treated. Concentrating, squinting or frowning causes this wrinkle. Crows feet at the side of our eyes are another indication.
Botox is targeted directly at the muscles that cause these wrinkles. Using a very fine needle the doctor injects a small amount of the solution into the body of the muscle. It takes 3-5 small injections between the eyebrows to treat the frown line. The Botox induced muscle relaxation begins to occur within a few days and a significant reduction in the lines and wrinkles will be noticed in a week. This effect is however only temporary as the muscles regains movement in 3-5 months and the wrinkles reappear. Treatments may be repeated as often as desired. Botox treatment is a quick and effective procedure with excellent results and virtually no downtime. It is perfect for those patients who have minimal signs of ageing such as forehead furrows and crows feet. Recent studies indicate that Botulin toxin is safe and effective treatment for hyperhydrosis (excessive sweating). By inhibiting the release of a neurotransmitter the chemical caused a 50% reduction in underarm sweating in one study. To date no systemic complications associated with Botox use have been documented. As with all medications there is the rare possibility of an allergic reaction. The most common side effects are local numbness, swelling, bruising or a burning sensation at the injection site. Bruising and swelling may persist for several days. More serious side effects are cases of drooping of the eyelid. This results from some of the chemical seeping under the brow and weakening the muscles that lift the eyelid. This effect goes away as the Botox wears off. Botox injections should not be used in pregnancy or when breastfeeding.
Botulinum toxin has been hailed as one of the most innovative substances introduced into dermatologic therapy in recent years. It offers an effective option for treatment of several conditions associated with ageing, and it may bring relief to sufferers of migraine headaches and excessive sweating.
Before you all rush to the nearest Dermatologist however this therapy is expensive as the cost of a single vial of Botox Cosmetic is in the region of US $500.
Dr. Clive Anderson is a
dermatologist
