Botulinum toxin
What is it?
Since the late 1990s, botulinum toxin, popularized by BOTOX®, has revolutionized the field of facial rejuvenation in a non-surgical way, because it makes it possible to quickly and safely eliminate the tired and heavy look of the face by eliminating or noticeably smoothing facial wrinkles.
Botulinum toxin is a neurotoxin, produced in a laboratory, which blocks the release of acetylcholine in the neuromotor plates and thus prevents or weakens the action of the muscles involved, which translates into attenuation or elimination of the wrinkles that result from their habitual contraction.
There are certain groups of muscles on the face whose repeated and permanent contraction causes wrinkles to appear on the forehead (frontalis muscle, which causes horizontal forehead wrinkles), above and between the eyebrows (supraciliary and nasal corrugators and depressors, which cause vertical and oblique wrinkles between the eyes and in the upper region of the nose), and around the eyes, known as crow’s feet wrinkles (due to contraction of the orbicularis oculi muscle).
Who is it for?
Botulinum toxin is indicated for people who want to reduce the appearance of wrinkles and expression lines, as well as to treat certain medical conditions.
Wrinkles and Expression Lines:
People with wrinkles on the forehead, around the eyes (crow’s feet), between the eyebrows (glabellar wrinkles), and around the mouth.
Gummy Smile:
Individuals who show an excessive amount of gum when smiling may benefit from treatment.
Platysmal bands:
People with prominent neck bands who do not want surgery can opt for treatment to soften the appearance of the neck.
Hyperhidrosis (excessive sweating):
Although not strictly aesthetic, people with excessive sweating in the armpits, hands or feet can be treated with botulinum toxin.
Facial asymmetry and facial muscle spasms:
It can be used to treat temporary facial asymmetry or muscle spasms.
Although botulinum toxin is widely used, there are some contraindications to its use
Pregnancy and breastfeeding:
Not recommended for pregnant or breastfeeding women.
Neuromuscular diseases:
People with diseases such as myasthenia gravis or Eaton-Lambert syndrome.
Injection Site Infection:
Should not be applied to infected skin areas.
Coagulation disorders:
People with coagulation disorders or who are taking anticoagulants should avoid due to the risk of bruising.
Considerations: Before opting for botulinum toxin treatment, it is important to have a medical consultation to assess the suitability of the treatment, discuss expectations and possible side effects. Only a qualified doctor can determine whether the treatment is appropriate for a specific individual, based on their medical history and aesthetic needs.
Technical description
The application of botulinum toxin is a relatively quick and minimally invasive procedure.
Topical Anesthesia (optional):
In some cases, a topical anesthetic cream can be applied to minimize discomfort.
Injection:
Using a fine needle, the doctor injects small amounts of botulinum toxin into the facial muscles.
The number of injections will depend on the extent of the area to be treated.
Post-treatment:
The results start to appear within a few days, but the full effect is usually visible after 1 to 2 weeks.
The effects of botulinum toxin last approximately 3 to 6 months, after which the treatment can be repeated as necessary.
Results and benefits
The application of botulinum toxin in aesthetics can offer various results and benefits:
Smoothing Wrinkles and Expression Lines: Visible reduction of wrinkles on the forehead, around the eyes (crow’s feet), between the eyebrows (glabellar wrinkles) and around the mouth.
Improved Skin Appearance: The skin looks smoother and more rejuvenated due to the reduction in expression lines.
Eyebrow Lift: Possibility of a slight lifting effect on the eyebrows, giving a more rested and alert look.
Gingival Smile Correction: Reducing excessive exposure of the gums when smiling.
Reduction of sweating: Reduction of excessive sweating in treated areas, such as armpits, hands or feet (hyperhidrosis).
Benefits:
Speed and Convenience: The procedure is quick, usually taking around 15 to 30 minutes, with minimal recovery time.
Temporary but lasting effects: The effects last from 3 to 6 months, allowing for adjustments and reassessments as necessary.
Minimally Invasive: As it is a non-surgical treatment, there are no cuts, sutures or significant recovery time.
Increased Self-Esteem and Confidence: Improved appearance can contribute to increased self-esteem and confidence.
Prevention of Future Wrinkles: By inhibiting muscle movement, it can prevent the development of new lines and wrinkles.
Customizable: Treatment can be personalized to meet the specific needs and expectations of each patient.
Recovery
Recovery after the application of botulinum toxin is generally simple and with few inconveniences, with most patients resuming their normal activities immediately. However, as with any aesthetic procedure, there may be some side effects and post-procedure care to consider.
Redness: The skin in the treated area may be red for a few hours after the injection.
Bruising: Although the risk is very low, bruising can occur. If they do appear, they usually disappear within a week.
Discomfort: Some sensitivity or discomfort may be felt in the treated area, but this usually disappears after a few hours.
Post-procedure care
- In the first 4 hours:
- Avoid lying down: Stay upright and avoid lying down to prevent the toxin from migrating to untreated areas.
- Avoid Physical Exercise: Refrain from intense physical activity to minimize the risk of bruising and migration of the toxin.
- In the first 24-48 hours:
- Avoid Massage: Do not massage or apply pressure to the treated areas to avoid displacement of the toxin.
- Avoid Heat Exposure: Avoid saunas, hot baths and direct exposure to the sun to reduce the risk of swelling and bruising.
- Avoid Alcohol: Avoiding alcoholic beverages can help minimize the risk of bruising and swelling.
- Avoid Skincare Products: Avoid applying cosmetics or skincare products to the treated areas until it is safe to do so, according to medical advice.
- Over the next few days:
- Hydration and sun protection: Keeping your skin hydrated and protecting it from the sun with sunscreen is essential.
- Medical follow-up:
- Follow-up appointment: Attend follow-up appointments as recommended by the doctor to evaluate the results and discuss the need for touch-ups or adjustments.