Botox cosmetic anti-aging

Botox cosmetic anti-aging treatment is a medical procedure. It is performed by a physician and is only available by prescription. It has nothing to do with over the counter products.

Some frequently asked questions:

Exactly what is it used for?
Although the drug has several different uses, Botox cosmetic anti-aging is generally used to temporarily reduce or remove wrinkles on your face. It is most often used to reduce the 'frown wrinkle' that occurs between some people's eye brows. It has also be used to reduce 'crows feet' and forehead wrinkles.

How does it work? Wrinkles are formed when a given muscle contracts. If you habitually contract the muscle between your eyebrows you will develop a 'permanent' crease between your eyebrows.
If you are treated by a physician for this, the physician will inject a small amount into the muscle. This temporarily paralyzes the muscle so it can not contract and the deep wrinkle between your brows is gone. A medical doctor trained in this procedure knows how to ensure that only the muscle involved in creating the wrinkle is treated

Is the smoothing of wrinkles permanent?
No, Botox cosmetic anti-aging treatment is temporary. It can last about 4 months. As the treatment begins to wear off, the wrinkle will return - unless you have somehow learned NOT to contract the muscle involved.

Are there any side effects to this treatment? What can I expect? Of course you should discuss the treatment and its after effects with your medical provider. Your physician should make sure you understand the procedure and potential side effects. Some people do experience side effects. Some have reported having droopy eyelids for up to a few weeks. Others have felt like the have the flue or they get a headache or upset stomach after treatment. All these side effects eventually pass. It is also possible to have an allergic reaction to the drug and if this happens, you should contact your doctor immediately.
Other 'side effects' that have been reported are more likely to have been caused by the needle itself. Some people develop redness or a slight swelling or bruising. These usually pass of their own accord

I heard that this is really a poison and that you could die from it. Is this true?
Botox cosmetic anti-aging, sometimes called Botulinum toxin type A, IS made from the Clostridium botulinum bacterium. While it is true that this bacteria in its original, potent state causes boutulism a potentially fatal illness that can result in paralysis. But this drug in medically prescribed treatment form is not the fatal bacteria. It has been approved by the FDA.
A spokesperson for Allergan, the maker, has said that there has never been a "single reported death where a causal link to Botox Cosmetic was established." Recently an analysis of FDA data sound that between 1997 and 2006 there were some 180 serious negative reactions and that this included 16 deaths but many of these cases were using the drug for conditions other than reducing wrinkles.

Are there any precautions or things that could prevent me from using it to remove my wrinkles?
Yes, the drug has only been approved for us on persons between 18 and 65 years. It has not been approved for those older than 65. the drug should not be used by pregnant women or by those who are breast feeding.
If you are taking anti-biotics or any other medication be sure to tell your doctor. Also be sure to tell your physician if you have ever had any problems with your muscles or nerves. These things are important and should be made known before treatment starts.

What about Botox parties? I received an invitation to one and was thinking of going.

Botox cosmetic anti-aging treatment is a medical treatment. You should have it done by a physician who has been trained in the procedure. This is not something that just anyone can

Please do it safely. It can be dangerous if the procedure is done incorrectly.

Only go to a physician who is board certified in dermatology, ears, nose and throat (otolaryngology), or plastic surgery. Ask how much experience the doctor has had with this treatment. This is in your best interest. Also an experienced physician can best advise you as to whether or not this treatment suits your particular situation.

Sources: Allergen corporation. Mayo clinic report on botox treatment.

To read research abstracts about Botox cosmetic anti-aging research abstracts

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