Since BotoxCosmetic’s FDA approval, Allergan, the parent company,
has spent a small fortune promoting it. So, what is BotoxCosmetic? It
is Botulinum Toxin Type A, a neurotoxin produced by a certain type
of bacteria found in spoiled food. Before modern food processing,
the bacteria was a major health concern. However, Botox has been used
medically for many years.
Until recently, all the Botox that has been used came from supplies
our government created during World War II. It was developed
for bacterial warfare, but never used. The government kept the
recipe, but sold its stockpile to various medical and pharmaceutical
companies for medical uses.
Botox inhibits muscles from contracting. Contracting muscles can
cause wrinkles especially in the face. Some bright person put
two and two together and created BotoxCosmetic. The muscle
is paralyzed and can’t contract, the skin doesn’t wrinkle
and everyone is happier.
In the spring of 2002, the FDA approved the use of BotoxCosmetic
in the glabellar area (where frown lines occur). Anyone over
30 who has frowned at least twice is probably starting to form a wrinkle
right between the eyes. BotoxCosmetic is also injected for wrinkles
at the crow’s feet area around the eyes.
Women (and men) interested in BotoxCosmetic, need a consultation
with a physician who injects BotoxCosmetic to see if BotoxCosmetic
is right for them. If it is, then an appointment is made on a
BotoxCosmetic day. Since BotoxCosmetic is shipped in its crystalline
form, it needs to be reconstituted and used in the next few hours. Generally,
only in big city markets can clients walk in and obtain BotoxCosmetic
the same day. On the BotoxCosmetic Day, a consent form must
be signed, the area is prepared and the BotoxCosmetic is injected
with a small needle. It usually takes about 5 injections to obtain
the best result. Some people complain of some stinging or burning,
but no one has ever said it was painful. Afterwards, there may
be some redness and minor swelling for a few hours. Occasionally,
there may be some faint bruising. In the next 24 to 48 hours,
the muscle will quit working and the wrinkles will soften and begin
to fade. Sometimes it may take up to 2 weeks to realize the full
effect. Rarely, there are individuals who are immune to Botox.
On the average, BotoxCosmetic works approximately 4 months. After
this time, some muscle activity will begin returning. Another
session of BotoxCosmetic is given to maintain the muscle inactivity
and reduce the subsequent wrinkling.
Side effects are few but include flu-like syndrome, respiratory infection,
eyelid drooping, nausea and headache. However, some people with
migraine headaches have noticed improvement with their headaches.
BotoxCosmetic is the only treatment that prevents wrinkling from
occurring. Other methods may improve, but not prevent wrinkles.
Paul A. Blair, MD is board certified in Facial Plastic and Reconstructive
Surgery and specializes in facial cosmetic surgery and treatments.
His new office is located at 3667 Teays Valley Road, Hurricane, WV
25526. His phone is 304-201-3223
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