Do you have a perpetually worried look on your face? You are not alone! Botox injections are one of the most popular cosmetic procedures in the U.S., and it’s easy to understand why.
These simple injections can smooth wrinkles—such as forehead creases, frown lines, and crow’s feet—with tiny needles instead of surgery. The results aren’t permanent, but they do last for three months for those who are new to the injections, and up to 12 months for those who receive repeated injections over the years. This makes Botox a good alternative for those who want to minimize wrinkles without surgery.
Botox is a form of the toxin produced by the bacterium Clostridium botulinum, which is best known for causing botulism, a foodborne illness. Botulinum toxin blocks the action of nerves on muscles. Simply put, the affected muscles are unable to function. This is disastrous if the muscles you use for breathing are affected, as is the case in food-poisoning.
However, by targeting specific muscles with a small amount of the toxin, physicians have discovered some highly beneficial medical treatments. Just a few examples of medical uses of Botox include the treatment of:
- Eyelid spasms,
- Migraines,
- Urinary incontinence,
- Crossed eyes, and
- Neck spasms.
Researchers continue to look for other conditions where Botox can provide relief. But Botox’s biggest claim to fame is its use for cosmetic purposes. Tiny injections can relax the forehead, smoothing the stressed look of a furrowed brow. It can minimize crow’s feet and other facial wrinkles, providing a refreshed, youthful appearance.
This happens because the muscles that receive the Botox injection stop contracting in response to nerve stimulation. The effect lasts for months, meaning only occasional maintenance is required.
Because Botox works so well to achieve these cosmetic goals, it has become a popular cosmetic treatment, with many satisfied patients. But, it has also attracted unscrupulous individuals who want to make an easy profit. These people bypass the safety requirements established by the FDA by purchasing from unapproved suppliers. This counterfeit Botox may not have been manufactured, shipped, or stored according to FDA requirements. This opens the door for inferior products, contamination, and other dangers.
In recent years, the FDA has published occasional warnings concerning counterfeit Botox, encouraging physicians to be sure of what they are buying and consumers to be wise regarding where they receive their medical care.
As a consumer, it is imperative that you see a qualified physician for your medical care. Dr. Slack is certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery and a member of the American Society of Plastic Surgeons. These credentials mean that he is held to the highest professional standards. He uses only products obtained through legal means established by the FDA, and he follows the highest standards of medical care.
Ask where the Botox being used came from. A reputable physician will be able to demonstrate that the Botox they use is FDA approved and came from a legitimate source.
Beware of low prices. Botox products that come from FDA approved manufacturers have a uniform cost that all physicians pay. This means you will find only small variations in pricing among physicians. If you find pricing for Botox that is much less than that offered by just about everyone else, be suspicious. If it sounds too good to be true, it probably is.
Botox offers many benefits for individuals who want a fresher, more youthful facial appearance. It is a safe alternative to plastic surgery when administered by a qualified plastic surgeon that uses only FDA approved products. If you would like to find out if Botox can work for you, contact Dr. Slack for your consultation in his Allen, TX office.
