Botox has been a popular cosmetic procedure for almost two decades. However, there are still common questions you may have surrounding the procedure. For instance, is Botox safe? Yes, Botox is safe. Botox was approved by the FDA in 2002 as a cosmetic procedure. Since 2002, well over 11 million Americans have received Botox injections.
However, it’s important to remember that it truly matters who does your procedure. At Vujevich Dermatology, Botox treatments are performed by one of our physicians or our highly trained nurse practitioner. As a patient wondering, “Is Botox safe?”, you will want to make sure that your procedure is performed by a highly trained or board-certified professional.
What is Botox?
Botox is a neurotoxin produced by the bacteria called botulinum toxin, which is found naturally in the environment and is non-toxic in small doses. Botulinum toxin is injected into patients in small doses to prevent nerve cells from receiving signals that cause the muscles to move. This effectively freezes the muscles, creating the smooth look Botox is known for.
Is Botox Safe?
Botox is one of the most widely researched minimally invasive cosmetic dermatology procedures. Over 500 scientific articles have been published on Botox. This research includes studies using Botox as a treatment for cosmetic concerns, chronic migraines, and excessive sweating. Research has been conducted on both short-term and long-term side effects, with minimal patients reporting long-term side effects.
You should not receive Botox injections if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, or have been diagnosed with a neurological disease. Speak to your dermatologist about other cosmetic procedure options to treat your cosmetic concerns if you fall into any of the above categories.
Even though research proves that Botox is safe, you might still be wondering, how does Botox work? This is a valid question and understanding the process can alleviate any concerns you may have about the procedure.
What Happens During a Botox Procedure?
First, your dermatologist will evaluate the movement of your facial muscles to determine what areas will be treated. This evaluation will also allow your dermatologist to determine the correct dose of Botox needed. The dermatologist will cleanse the areas to be treated and then will inject the Botox into these areas.
Once injected, Botox blocks nerve signals from the brain that cause your muscles to contract. The muscles at the injection site are relaxed, therefore decreasing the fine lines and wrinkles caused by the muscles contracting. Botox is a localized treatment, meaning that it only affects the muscles surrounding the injection site.
You may notice mild swelling and redness at the injection sites following a Botox treatment. To reduce the risk of side effects, do not rub the injection area and avoid lying down for three to four hours following your appointment. Seeking treatment from a board-dermatologist trained in Botox procedures will help to decrease the pain and side effects associated with Botox.
What is Botox Used For?
Botox is most commonly used to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. Other FDA-approved dermatologic uses of Botox include reducing excessive sweating, gummy smiles, and vertical neck lines. While Botox is a cosmetic procedure, it can be used for other concerns as well.
Is Botox safe for procedures that are not dermatologic? Yes, non-dermatologic uses of Botox include reducing chronic migraines, reducing muscle spasms, and correcting crossed eyes. A growing use is also Botox for depression. As Botox is a fairly new treatment for reducing depression symptoms, research is continuously being conducted to determine the efficacy of Botox as a treatment option. Early research suggests that Botox is not only safe to use, but also can reduce depression symptoms after only one injection.
How Long Does Botox Last?
Botox injections last three to six months. After your second injection you may notice that your results last longer. As the muscles near the injection sites are used less often, they may begin to shorten and become smaller. This can lead to needing fewer Botox injections after receiving them for an extended number of years. However, your provider will be able to determine the dosage and frequency of your Botox procedures in order to get you the results you’re looking for.
Vujevich Dermatology is dedicated to providing patients with helpful and factual information. When wondering about questions such as, “Is Botox safe?”, we want to provide you a place to obtain valuable information and create a community that you feel comfortable asking questions with.
Vujevich Dermatology Associates offers medical, surgical, and cosmetic dermatology from some of the most highly trained physicians and clinicians in the greater Pittsburgh area. You can reach our team at 412-429-2570 or visit our contact page to see all of our locations. You can also follow us on Facebook to see what’s new in the world of dermatology.