BOTOX ® and the Treatment of Dynamic Wrinkles

Individuals in the Towson, Maryland area and in other parts of the nation who are experiencing the signs of aging such as dynamic wrinkles have found relief from this through BOTOX®. This is perhaps the most well-known cosmetic treatment for those looking to combat the signs of aging and for many its name is synonymous with cosmetic treatment. The procedure works to eliminate dynamic wrinkles—which form over time as a facial expression such as smiling or frowning is made. Examples of dynamic wrinkles include crow's feet (around the eyes), worry lines (on the forehead) or glabellar lines (between the eyebrows).

BOTOX® works by paralyzing the underlying muscle that causes the wrinkle to form upon its contraction. The Botulinum toxin type A, when injected directly into the muscle, prevents the contraction of the muscle by inhibiting the transmission of nerve impulses to the muscle. With the muscle unable to contract, the wrinkle gradually diminishes. This procedure is not effective on static wrinkles—which appear when the face is at rest—as these may be best treated using dermal fillers. Speaking with a specialist in the Towson area may be helpful in determining which treatment is suitable for one's needs or goals.

BOTOX® is typically used to treat dynamic wrinkles that appear in the upper third of the face, but some physicians may use it to treat other parts of the face and neck as well. This treatment has also been used in the treatment of migraine headaches as well as excessive underarm sweating. When undergoing this procedure, some patients may feel a small pin prick as the needle used is very small to minimize discomfort during the procedure. The treatment takes about ten minutes to perform and because it is non-surgical, there is no recovery time necessary after the procedure. Patients are typically allowed to return to work or resume other normal activities immediately following treatment.

The paralysis with BOTOX® may take one to five days to occur and may peak after about two to four weeks. The results may last about three to six months and as the effect begins to gradually wear off, the dynamic wrinkle may begin to return. Follow up treatments may be necessary to maintain the desired effect of the treatment. Over time, repeat treatments may lead to improved results as the muscle that is causing the wrinkle becomes less responsive. This is called chemical denervation.

As with just about any medical procedure, there are certain side effects of which patients should be aware before undergoing treatment. The procedure cannot be used if there is an infection present at the injection site or the individual has a known hypersensitivity to any ingredient used in the formulation. Talk to a specialist in the Towson area for more information on this front.

Those with neuromuscular disorders such as Myasthenia Gravis and Eaton Lambert Syndrome may be at an increased risk of clinically significant systemic effects of the treatment. Common side effects of BOTOX® may include headache, respiratory infection, flu-like syndrome, temporary eyelid droop and nausea. Rare side effects may include pain in the face, injection site redness and muscle weakness. Individuals should discuss possible side effects with the specialist before treatment to ensure their understanding of the possible complications associated with the treatment.

Learn more about BOTOX® in Towson, Maryland.

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