What is Botox Treatment For the Face?

Facial Botox: Cosmetic and Medical Uses You Should Know

Botox or Botulinum Toxin type A, is a medicinal and cosmetic toxin used to improve one’s physical appearance. While this toxin can be poisonous if consumed in large quantities, a small amount can be injected to reduce the appearance of ageing features and treat muscle spasms. 

If injected, botulinum toxin contracts muscles by blocking specific nerve signals. The relaxed muscles help the face stay firm, reduce the appearance of wrinkles, and even treat certain medical conditions. However, Botox doesn't grant permanent results. 

Read ahead to learn what Botox is used for, the risks, and the procedure for treating it. 

What is Botox Used For? 

Botox is primarily used to relax muscles, whether for cosmetic or medical purposes. Once a dosage is injected into a patient's body, muscles relax within 48 hours. The full effect of the toxin can be visible in two weeks. 
Here are a few of the medical uses of Botox;

• It helps loosen muscles
• Corrects impaired vision
• It can help moderate migraines
• It helps regulate bladder movements and improves bladder control 
• Prevents muscle spasms

Additionally, Botox is also used to treat wrinkles and lines on the face that have been formed due to long exposure to the sun or repeated facial expressions. Ideally, it works to make an individual look visibly younger by reducing the facial signs of ageing. 

Here are a few of the cosmetic uses of Botox:

• Fine lines on your forehead caused by frowning
• Frown lines between your eyebrows
• Creases on your neck 
• Crow’s feet 
• Smile lines around your nose and mouth 
• Unwanted dimples  
   

What are the Risks of Botox Treatment?

Only a physician, registered nurse, or licensed medical practitioner can administer Botox injections. Although Botox is a safe procedure, improper technique, inexperience, or miscalculated dosage can have adverse side effects. 

Here are some side effects to look out for after a Botox injection:

• Look for any pain, redness, or swelling at the site of the injection. 
• Check if you feel feverish or have a headache after the procedure.
• Infection at the site of the injection may occur if proper care is not taken.
• Disfigured facial features. 

You must immediately contact your healthcare personnel if you observe or experience further symptoms listed below:

• Blurry or fading vision
• Issues with bladder movements 
• Facial paralysis 
• Problems with speech
• Breathlessness 
   

What is the Procedure for a Botox Treatment?

Here is the step-by-step procedure for a Botox treatment:

Step 1: Pre-injection

Your healthcare provider will apply an anaesthetic ointment, reducing your pain sensitivity.

Step 2: The Main Procedure

The dosage is administered in a safe and sterile environment. Your medical practitioner will inject a small amount of Botox into your muscles. The number of injections you need will be determined by the area you wish to rectify. 

Step 3: Post-injection Care

You must not massage the site of the injection for 24 hours. Doctors also advise against lying down for 2 to 4 hours after the procedure. These steps must be followed to ensure the toxin remains in the necessary facial area. 

Botox treatment results can be visible within a week of the procedure and last for up to 6 months. It helps you look visibly younger while relaxing your facial muscles to alleviate pain. However, it’s always essential to consult a doctor to help you achieve your desired goals with Botox.