Botox: Is it really safe?

When you have to take off years from your face, the most common solution that comes to mind for many is Botox. Even though its cosmetic use is well-known now, many people are apprehensive about going

By: Dr Shefali Trasi Nerurkar | | Updated: September 25, 2014 1:59 pm

When you have to take off years from your face, the most common solution that comes to mind for many is Botox. Even though its cosmetic use is well-known now, many people are apprehensive about going for this treatment thinking it will make them look unnatural and plastic-like. Is that really true? Well, the answer is both yes and no. Anything done in excess will have its side-effects but when done properly and in moderation can do wonders for your skin. But, there are some pointers to keep in mind before you opt for a Botox treatment. We speak to Dr Shefali Trasi Nerurkar about the same. Also Read - BOTOX - Common side effects you should know

Who should opt for it Also Read - Botox cousin may reduce prevalence of malaria

What many people may not know is that Botox is botulinum toxin which is purified and sterile and is safe to use. It can be used for medical as well as cosmetic purposes. Cosmetically, it is used to lighten wrinkles and tighten the jawline. Also, patients who have a broad lower face can narrow it with the use of Botox. Dermatological conditions like hyperhidrosis (i.e. excessive sweating), bromhidrosis (fowl-smelling sweat) and open pores. (Read: Ditch those open pores: Your dermatologist’s guide to clear skin) Also Read - Study says botox jabs effective, safe in reducing chronic migraine

Who shouldn’t do it

There are times when people are advised against the treatment. Following are the cases when such a decision is taken:

When the patient is sensitive or allergic to botulinum toxin or to any of the ingredients of this medication.If there is any infection at the site of injection.If the patient has medical conditions like myasthenia gravis, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, or Eaton Lambert syndrome.

How is it done

In the treatment, a few units of Botox are injected into the area which needs to be treated. The number of units used depends on the area and so does the cost. Once injected, it relaxes the muscle. In case of cosmetic use, the wrinkle disappears due to this action. A Botox treatment on the face or neck takes about 15-20 minutes but the results are only visible in about 2 weeks.

How side-effects appear

Many fear that the treatment will make them look unnatural and that the skin will lose its sensitivity. According to Dr Shefali that only happens when wrong quantities of Botox are used. Hence, using the right amount is the key to looking beautiful. Another reason for side-effects is when the treatment is performed by an unqualified person.

She says that a touch-up session is at times needed when the treatment is underdone. But one needs to wait for about 2 weeks before they get another injection. Doing it too quickly can result in side-effects.

Aftercare

Dr Shefali recommends the following:

After undergoing the treatment, the patient should avoiding sleeping immediately in a horizontal position for up to 4 hours.

They should also avoid facial massage for the next 5 days. (Read: Facials – do you really need them?)

How long does the effect last

The effect of Botox wears off in 4-6 months so a repeat session is recommended after every 6 months if you wish to maintain your current look. (Read: Keep your face fit with Face Yoga)

When should you see a doctor

People can have one or more side-effects when the treatment isn’t done right or it doesn’t suit them. These aren’t restricted to that particular area and nor are they confined to appear on the same day. At times, people experience a side-effect even up to several weeks after the treatment. One should immediately see their doctor if they notice the following after a cosmetic Botox treatment:

Headache
Bruising
Itching or rashes
Allergic reactions
Weakness
Nausea
Pain at the injected area

Drooping of the eyelid (ptosis), inflammation of the cornea (keratitis), eye dryness, double vision, tearing, and sensitivity to light may occur when it is used for treating blepharospasm.

Having said this, please note that allergic rashes or reactions, pain, redness, bruising, headache and neck pain is seen immediately after the procedure. Hence after the treatment, the patient is made to wait in the clinic for sometime and then allowed to leave if no side-effects show up.

Can these be reversed

Usually, allergic rashes, headache, neck pain subsides within few hours of the treatment. Bleeding stops immediately after applying pressure by cotton and ice. Bruising goes off in 3-4 days. One can take vitamin C tablets and apply anti-bruise creams. For eye complications, an ophthalmologist should be consulted.

Other conditions where Botox is used

Apart from its cosmetic use, Botox is used for treating medical conditions as well. Some of these are:

Neurological conditions like trigeminal neuralgia, cerebral palsy.

Migraine

Blepahrospasm (a condition where the eyelid will not stay open because of a spasm of a muscle in the eye), strabismus (a condition in which eyes don’t align properly).

Cervical dystonia (the neck muscles contract involuntarily, causing abnormal movements and awkward posture of the head and neck).

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Published : September 27, 2013 10:18 am | Updated:September 25, 2014 1:59 pm