Botulism injections
Botulism is a prescription drug that, when injected, temporarily paralyzes muscles. It contains a purified and safe form of botulinum toxin A, which is produced by the microbe that causes botulism. Manufactured by various pharmaceutical companies, it is used to treat permanent furrows and deep wrinkles in the skin that are formed by the continual contraction of facial muscles. In addition to its cosmetic applications, it is used to treat a number of medical problems, including excessive sweating, overactive bladder, neck spasms, chronic back and jaw pain, and migraines.
Andria Keith Aesthetics offers 4 FDA approved brands of botulism:
- Botox
- Dysport
- Xeomin
- Jeuveau
Applications for Botulism
Although originally approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration for the treatment of eye and muscle spasms, botulism was quickly recognized for its cosmetic value. Properly placed injections of botulism block nerve impulses sent to muscles, weakening them to the point where they cannot contract, and temporarily eliminating moderately severe furrows and lines. Neuromodulators used to treat the following:
- Forehead furrows
- Frown lines
- Crow's feet
Botulism Procedure and Results
Using a very fine needle, botulism is injected directly into facial muscles that are causing furrows and lines. Receiving the injections requires no anesthetic, but some providers choose to numb the area to be injected with ice packs or a topical anesthetic cream. Results can usually be seen in fourteen days post injection and typically last up to three - four months, although areas that are treated on a regular basis may retain results longer. Injections should be given only by qualified medical professionals.
Side Effects of Botulism
Injection-site side effects of botulism are usually mild and temporary, and include the following:
- Pain
- Infection
- Inflammation
- Tenderness
- Swelling
- Redness
- Bleeding
- Bruising