BOTOX
injections are used to weaken the fine muscles around
the eyes and forehead that are responsible for the frown
lines and deep wrinkles that occur in these areas. By
selectively weakening the proper muscles, the surgeon
can eliminate the wrinkles without disturbing normal
function.
Treatment
consists of a number of tiny injections made through
a very fine needle directly into muscle. Effects of
the injections begin to appear within a few days. The
results generally last around four to six months, after
which time, the injections must be repeated.
There
is some current evidence that suggests that repeated
injections may ultimately lead to longer lasting results.
While
the use of BOTOX is new in cosmetic surgical practices,
it is by no means untested. For many years, it has been
used in the treatment of patients who have spasmodic
contractions of the eye or other facial muscles in conditions
such as hemi-facial spasm or blepharospasm, as well
as certain spasmodic voice disorders.
BOTOX
injections appear to be very safe. The most serious
side effect that has been observed is either drooping
of the eyelid or double vision. This results from weakening
of the muscles very close to the eyelid. The complication
is self limited and wears off- usually within a few
weeks. To avoid this, injections are kept away from
the eyelid itself. Bruising can also occur at the injection
site, but this clears rapidly and is usually gone within
a day or so, and is easily covered with make up. No
systemic side effects have been noted.
Aftercare
Result
of injections may not be fully evident for 4 to 5 days.
Swelling or bruising may occur at injection sites. Elevate
head of bed 30 to 45 degrees for the first day to help
decrease the swelling.
Ice
may be applied off and on the first 24 hours to decrease
bruising and swelling.
You
may reapply makeup one hour after the injections if
desired.
