Botox, also called Botulinum toxin type A, is a drug that is primarily used to remove facial wrinkles. However, Botox also has many other uses. Some other health problems for which doctors utilize Botox include blepharospasm (excessive blinking), excessive sweating (hyperhidrosis), strabismus (crossed eyes/squint), etc. Botox is sourced from a toxin given off by the bacterium called Clostridium botulinum. Ironically, this apparently useful drug is extremely toxic and has been the cause of many a case of food poisoning, chiefly from preserved meats, vegetables, fruits, etc. that have been improperly sterilized before being canned. However, in small doses, Botox is extremely handy in treating the conditions mentioned above.

How They Work & Areas Involved:

Botox injections work by basically paralyzing specific muscles and/or blocking specific nerves. This affects only the targeted area (the targeted muscles). When these muscles get paralyzed, they relax and result in a smooth surface/reduce spasm of the muscles. The effect lasts for about 3-4 months. Botox injections can be done on any part of the body, depending on the conditions they are used to treat. When the goal is to treat wrinkles, it is primarily injected in the face and neck area. If the goal is to treat excessive sweating, injections are done in the palms or underarms.

The Procedure:  Basically, the procedure involves using a thin needle (hypodermic). Using this, the doctor injects the toxin through the skin and into the muscle. Many injections may be required in the target area.

Is Anesthesia Involved:  In most cases, no anesthesia is given or required. However, some people may request anesthesia to feel comfortable with the procedure.

Would You Feel Any Pain:  Some minimal discomfort may be expected; however, it is not a painful procedure per se.

Duration of the Procedure:  Usually, the procedure takes less than 15 minutes. It can be less or more depending on the number of sites to be injected.

What are the Complicatons:  These are mostly minor complications and involve things such as a stinging sensation around the injection site, some bruising or redness. Some may also experience nausea, headache, etc. However, these are mild and resolve quickly.

Any Hospital Stay Involved:  Basically, this is an outpatient procedure and hence no hospital stay is required.

Any Limitations Post-Procedure:  None. Normal activities can be resumed immediately after the procedure.

How Long Would The Results Last:  Since the effect of the toxin is temporary, you would need to repeat the injections after 3-4 months to maintain the effects.

When to Call the Doctor:  Although complications are rare, if you experience one of the following complications, it would be wise to see your doctor.

• If you have trouble breathing, speaking or swallowing.
• If you have an allergic reaction to the injection.
• If you have drooping of the eyelids or find that your vision is obstructed (in cases where the injection site involved is the face).

Who Should Not Have Botox:

If you are pregnant or are breast-feeding, you shouldn't consider using Botox injections.