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What is BOTOX?


We all must have heard about BOTOX some time during our lives. Usually as something used by celebrities or high society ladies. Half baked knowledge is always dangerous, so here I would like to put forth some facts regarding this often misunderstood wonder-drug.

The first time I saw Botox being used was when I was posted in Urology, it was injected in a case of an Overactive bladder. The second time I saw it being used for Frey's Syndrome. The third time I used it for overactive cheek muscle. It was only during my aesthetic training that I got to know of its use in what it is famous for. Smoothening of lines and wrinkles.

So what is it? BOTOX is the brand name for botulinum toxin which is acquired from a bacteria called Clostridium Botulinum. When injected in controlled fashion it causes weakening of the overactive muscles and glands. Due to this unique property, this toxin has found widespread application all throughout the body, it is used for relieving blepharospams, for torticollis, cervical spasms, axillary hyperhidrosis, and of course, for the frown lines and crow's feet.

BOTOX does not cause dramatic effects. It prevents and delays the appearance of lines and wrinkles. The effects of the toxin are temporary and last for 6 to 8 months. Yet those who have experienced its effects often swear by it. No wonder that more than 11 million Americans have already used it and it is the most requested non-invasive aesthetic procedure all over the world.
 The effects of BOTOX are not just cosmetic, it has also been used in chronic migrane and for excessive sweating. Specially in the humid climate of Mumbai, identifying the overactive sweat glands by doing the starch iodine test and injecting the specific areas can be extremely useful. As always it is important to know that not anyone can inject this drug, after all its a toxin. If injected inadvertantly it can cause drooping of the eyebrows and asymmetry of the face. Knowledge of facial anatomy is a must. Hence know your injector and make sure they are qualified enough to do your procedure.



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