Botulinum toxin, also known as Botox, has been available as a cosmetic treatment for approximately 15 years. Initially, it was primarily used by middle-aged women to treat wrinkles. Once the public became comfortable with its safety and effectiveness, Botox quickly became one of the most frequently requested cosmetic non-surgical procedures in the United States. Its popularity has spread beyond women to include men, older seniors, and even millennials.
Canadian dermatologists first used botulinum toxin injections to treat an unrelated eye condition. The doctors noticed that their patients had no frown lines and that their crow’s feet became less noticeable following the treatments. This paved the way for the use of botulinum toxin as a non-surgical and non-invasive anti-aging treatment.
Preventing Wrinkles with Botox:
Younger patients may choose to start Botox injections in their late 20s to prevent the formation of deep lines and wrinkles. It is important to be conservative in the amount injected and the frequency of treatments to avoid giving the face a “frozen” appearance. It is also important to consult a board-certified dermatologist or cosmetic surgeon who is experienced with the treatment and who collaborates with the patient to develop a personalized treatment plan.
What Other Conditions Can Botox Treat?
Medical professionals have found that botulinum toxin has a variety of applications. It can be used to change the contour of the face and mouth, reduce the appearance of “rubber band” lines around the neck, and improve the appearance of a gummy smile. Botulinum toxin injections can be used to treat crossed or squinting eyes by relaxing the muscles so that the eyes can realign. This is most effective in cases where the squinting develops suddenly and does not have an obvious underlying cause. Patients with medical conditions like migraines, tremors, muscle spasms, urinary incontinence, Meige’s syndrome and excessive sweating may also benefit from botulinum toxin treatments.