BOTOX is one of the most common cosmetic treatments in America, but it is not always the most understood. In today’s blog we’re going to separate the myths from the facts about BOTOX. Myth: BOTOX is dangerous. Fact: The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved BOTOX for medical use in 1989 and cosmetic use in 2002. While BOTOX is derived from botulinum toxin, it does not spread to the nervous system, where botulism affects people. Instead, it stays at the injection site and only rarely spreads far enough that medical attention is necessary. As long as a qualified doctor is performing the injections, you should be safe. Myth: There are no medical benefits to BOTOX. Fact: BOTOX was originally approved for medical use and is used to treat everything from strabismus to excessive underarm sweating. Myth: BOTOX injections are painful. Fact: People usually only feel a slight pinch or mild discomfort when they needle is injected. Myth: I can get addicted to BOTOX. Fact: BOTOX has no addictive properties. Myth: Once I get BOTOX I’ll never need it again. Fact: BOTOX injections wear off after about three months, so new injections are necessary every 3-6 months if you want to ensure wrinkles stay gone. Myth: If I stop getting BOTOX my wrinkles will get worse. Fact: Once BOTOX wears off, your face will just go back to the way it was before. Myth: BOTOX can be used anywhere on the face. Fact: BOTOX is designed to be used specifically for frown lines and crow’s feet. If you want to address facial volume, you need a dermal filler. This blog is for informational purposes only. For specific medical questions, please consult your physician. If you would like to make a consultation appointment with one of CEENTA’s eye or ENT doctors trained with using BOTOX, call 704-295-3000.
