Botox is the name used to speak in a generic way when referring to botulinum toxin. This toxin is a protein that allows to relax small muscle areas selectively.
The use of botulinum toxin in medicine is more than 98% in patients with neurological pathologies. Botox has been used for more than 24 years in this class of patients suffering from diseases such as strabismus, bruxism, migraines, dystonia, urinary incontinence, blepharospasm and vertebral pain.
During the last few years Botox has increased in popularity, thanks to its use in cosmetic treatment of wrinkles, due to its ability to smooth expression lines.
What is the use of Botox in Aesthetic Medicine?
Botox (botulinum toxin), is indicated for the temporary improvement in the appearance of:
- Vertical lines between the eyebrows
- The lateral lines of the eye produced at maximum smile
- Eyebrow lines produced at maximum eyebrow elevation.
What brands of Botox are used?
For use in Aesthetic Medicine, the three brands authorized by the Spanish Medicines Agency are the following:
- Vista bel®
- Azzalure®
- Bocouture®.
There are some pharmacological variations between the three brands that have a direct influence on the duration of the results.
What is the recommended dose?
During the last expert meeting, the following doses in units were agreed upon:
- Línieas glabelares 20 U
- Crow’s feet 24 U
- Forehead wrinkles 20 U
If lower doses were used it would lead to shorter duration of results.
What are the results like?
The results obtained will depend on the skill, experience and aesthetic perception of the doctor performing the treatment. Consequently, in young patients it is possible to eliminate expression wrinkles while maintaining movement. On the other hand, in older patients, it is only possible to reduce the depth of the wrinkle by softening their gestures, maintaining naturalness in all cases.
When expressionless faces occur after the application of Botox, it is unfortunately due to malpractice or a poor quality product (or both).
From the first week after the injection, improvements start to be seen. These results can last up to 4 months after treatment. However, it is not recommended that the interval between treatments be less than 3 months.
Does the application of Botox produce any side effects?
Eyelid drooping is the most feared side effect but it can be avoided with proper technique.
On the other hand, the most common side effects are slight bruising or swelling, which usually disappear spontaneously.
For more information on the applications of botulinum toxin, please contact a specialist in Aesthetic Medicine.