Botulinum toxin (Botox®)

Botulinum toxin is a neurotoxin produced by Clostridium botulinum bacterium, which is used as a drug since 1977, initially by Ophthalmologists to treat strabismus, blepharospasm, spasmodic torticollis, in patients with migraine, neurological diseases such as dystonia and spasticity due to cerebral palsy, doses up to 150 IU per muscle. http://www.revbiomed.uady.mx/pdf/rb041525.pdf

The doses used in cases of dynamic expression lines are less than 10 IU, with a maximum of 100 IU.

When a person decides a treatment with Botulinum Toxin is important to know:

1. Botulinum toxin should be applied by a physician experienced in this type of treatment.
2. Knowing the type of toxin to use, expiration date.
3. Attend medical supervision at least 7 to 15 days after placement for the photographic record and assess its progress.
4. Never botulinum toxin must be reapplied after 15 days after application.
5. Wait at least 3 months for a new reapplication.

Botulinum toxin is a substance that is injected into the skin, in minimal amounts, to generate the relaxation of the musculature of the area, and so distend the lines that are on this musculature.

This toxin blocks the synapse between the motor nerve and muscle. We could say that “off” the muscle of his “power cord” (nerve) temporarily and muscle does not contract, which the dynamic line or lines that are generated by the movements and facial gestures we do constantly is generated and unconscious.

Dynamic expression lines most commonly treated with the toxin are the forehead, brow and beside eyes.

The effect begins to become evident 7 to 14 days after application and lasts for about 6 to 8 months. Beginning itself to show a decrease in effect about 4 months after application. The duration is variable.

It is mainly used in dermatology, ophthalmology and neurology. It is used to correct strabismus and diseases related to muscle movement. To correct lines and treat hyperhidrosis (excessive sweating) of armpits, hands and feet, susceptible areas to the effect of botulinum toxin. The application generates minimal discomfort, as sterile needles used are very thin.

Contraindications:

Static wrinkles, pregnant or breast-feeding patients, neurological diseases with impaired facial muscles, infection at the point of application.

Possible side effects of botulinum toxin:

– Inflammation for a few hours.
– Hematoma and ecchymosis ( “bruise”) in the application area. Disappears only 1 or 2 days.
– Facial Asymmetry: This is why we always take a photographic record. Ptosis (drooping of the upper eyelid): The effect lasts about 3-4 months, then normal.

REMEMBER: YOU HEALTH CARE IS ATTENDING PHYSICIAN SPECIALIST.