Is BOTOX Safe?

    HOUSTON, TX, October 28, 2012 /24-7PressRelease/ -- BOTOX has been used for over a decade for cosmetic purposes, and it has been researched, tested and used for medical reasons since the 1980s. Because BOTOX has been around for a number of years, the medical community is familiar with the safety record of the medicine. The long-time use of BOTOX has also enabled medical professionals to determine the ideal candidates for BOTOX and to minimize any risks by using proper handling methods.

An FDA-Approved Medicine

BOTOX Cosmetic is FDA-approved to improve the appearance of moderate to severe glabellar lines, the vertical lines between the eyebrows. BOTOX has a long safety record tracing back to 2002, when it was approved by the FDA for cosmetic use. BOTOX has been used for medical purposes, such as treating spasms, for a couple decades.

In addition to being an FDA-approved treatment, BOTOX has several advantages including:

- No recovery time. The procedure takes only several minutes, and you can return to work immediately.
- Minimal pain and discomfort. BOTOX injections require the use of a fine gauge needle, so any pain you experience will be minimal and short-lived.
- Results last about 4 months. You may need to receive new BOTOX treatments several times a year.

Although there is rarely any downtime after choosing a non-surgical option like BOTOX, you should not lie down for at least four hours, and you should avoid strenuous exercise for at least 24 hours. Participating in these activities, and even rubbing your face in the hours after treatment, can cause BOTOX to migrate to other areas.

The most common side effects associated with BOTOX are swelling and redness at the injection site. These effects go away during the hours following the injection, and you will see an improvement from BOTOX within a few days. You will see the best results in about two weeks to a month.

How it Works

BOTOX is a diluted form of a neurotoxic protein, botulinum toxin. A common misconception is that BOTOX can cause botulism, an illness that is usually caused by food poisoning, when in fact high concentrations of pure botulinum toxin would be required to cause this illness.

Certain nerves in your face stimulate the production of a chemical called "acetylcholine." Acetylcholine causes your muscles to contract, such as the contraction involved in furrowing your brow. BOTOX blocks acetylcholine from communicating with your facial muscles. Your muscles will not contract in the injection areas, so the movement leading to wrinkles and lines is allowed to relax. The result is a smoother, more youthful facial appearance.

For more information about BOTOX, please visit the website of the experienced Dr. Haresh Yalamanchili at the Belage Center for Facial Plastic Surgery at www.houstonfacialsurgeon.com.

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