Botox (botulinum toxin)

Botox (botulinum toxin type A) is a powerful natural toxin whose role is to temporarily inhibit the release of acetylcholine – a neurotransmitter responsible for transmitting impulses between nerves and muscles. This substance blocks the so-called neuromuscular synapses, causing muscles to relax and wrinkles to smooth out. This process has been used in aesthetic medicine for the prevention and removal of facial expression lines, where very low concentrations of the toxin are used that do not affect other parts of the nervous system outside the area where the injection was performed.

Indications

• Expression lines, mainly in the upper face,
• Horizontal forehead wrinkles,
• Wrinkles around the eyes ("crow's feet"),
• Wrinkles between the eyebrows ("frown lines"),
• Lower face wrinkles,
• Lifting of a hooked nose,
• Bruxism,
• Migraines.

Procedure

The substance is administered into several points within each of the muscles responsible for forming wrinkles, via local injection using a disposable syringe with a very thin needle. During the insertion of the needle into the skin, a slight sensation of discomfort may occur. Depending on the number of injection sites, the procedure time is between 15 and 20 minutes. After the procedure, the patient can immediately return to daily activities. Directly after the procedure, however, you should avoid bending your head for 4-5 hours, avoid massaging the injection sites for 24 hours, refrain from consuming alcohol for the rest of the day, and avoid using the sauna or solarium.

Results

The first visible effects appear after just 2-3 days, while the best results are visible after about 2 weeks. The treatment effect lasts for 3-6 months after the procedure. This also depends on the amount of preparation administered and lifestyle. After this time, the treatment should be repeated (no more often than every 3 months).

Side effects such as small hematomas may occur at the injection site due to minor vessel damage. Occasionally, small, temporary swelling with a slight tingling sensation at the injection site or a headache that subsides after taking a painkiller may occur.

Contraindications

• Neuromuscular conduction disorders (myasthenia gravis, Lambert-Eaton syndrome).
• Cardiovascular diseases, e.g., Alzheimer's disease, multiple sclerosis, Parkinson's disease, etc.
• Hypersensitivity to the preparation's ingredients (human albumin).
• Taking medications such as: aminoglycoside antibiotics (streptomycin, gentamicin, amikacin, kanamycin, etc.).
• Local skin infections.
• Pregnancy, lactation period.
• Taking anticoagulant medications (e.g., Acard).