Botox

Botox

Botox injections are noted primarily for the ability to reduce the appearance of facial wrinkles. They’re also used to treat conditions such as neck spasms (cervical dystonia), excessive sweating (hyperhidrosis), an overactive bladder and lazy eye. Botox injections may also help prevent chronic migraines.

Botox injections use a toxin called onobotulinumtoxinA to temporarily prevent a muscle from moving. This toxin is produced by the microbe that causes botulism, a type of food poisoning.

Why it’s done

Botox injections block certain chemical signals from nerves, mostly signals that cause muscles to contract. The most common use of these injections is to temporarily relax the facial muscles that cause wrinkles in the forehead and around the eyes.

Risks

Botox injections are relatively safe when performed by an experienced doctor. Possible side effects and complications include:

  • Pain, swelling or bruising at the injection site

  • Headache or flu-like symptoms

  • Droopy eyelid or cockeyed eyebrows

  • Crooked smile or drooling

  • Eye dryness or excessive tearing

  • Select your doctor carefully

Botox

Botox must be used only under a doctor’s care. It’s important that injections be placed precisely in order to avoid side effects. Botox therapy can be dangerous if it’s administered incorrectly.