Botox Risks

Botox risks are limited but you should be informed about the risks and complication of Botox. Since the FDA officially approved Botox injections for the temporary treatment of facial wrinkles and lines in 2002, millions of people have undergone the procedure every year. It has become one of the most popular forms of plastic surgery, since it is safe and is really not surgery at all. The recovery time is minimal to nonexistent and the results last for months. Yet, consumers still need to be aware of the minor side effects that may occur. 

What attracts so many people to this non-invasive form of cosmetic surgery is the ability to drastically reduce if not eliminate many of the wrinkles and lines that show age in the face. Some results can be seen immediately after the procedure, with the full results being noticeable within a few days. Add in that there is no actual cutting into the face and the entire procedure only takes about ten minutes and you have a very attractive alternative to more serious plastic surgery. 

Botox is short for Botulinum toxin A, which is a purified form of the dangerous botulism bacterium. This is injected directly into the small muscles of the face to essentially paralyze the muscle. This is only a temporary paralysis that will diminish or eliminate the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles that are the result of muscle contractions and facial expressions over time. 

Some areas that respond well to this treatment include crow’s feet, forehead creases, and the lines that appear around the mouth. The most common Botox risks tend to be extremely minor, and are only temporary. These may include nausea or other symptoms common with the flu, headaches, respiratory infections, numbness in certain facial areas, and drooping eyelids. There may sometimes be some drooping or paralysis in the forehead as well, depending on the area injected. Some people may experience discomforts associated with the actual injection sites as well. There will sometimes be bleeding, tingling, itching, numbness, pain, red coloring, or swelling. 

Some people may experience temporary paralysis in parts of the face surrounding the injections site as well. Consumers must be aware of this possibility, though these signs will go away within a week of the procedure. Drooling is another Botox risk when the injections are placed around the mouth. This is a result of muscle paralysis which results in the inability to control saliva for a short period of time. Since Botox is a drug, patients have to discuss any type of medication they may be taking prior to having the injections. This includes herbal remedies, all natural over the counter products, and even multivitamins. Some people have a greater chance of experiencing Botox risks, including those with neuromuscular conditions or allergies to egg (which is an ingredient in the injections). 

Botox rare risks are also heightened for infants or developing babies, so women who are breastfeeding or pregnant should never receive the injections. Sometimes when Botox is routinely administered over a long period of time the body can start to produce antibodies which are resistant to the effects of the drug. To decrease the occurrence of all of these Botox risks, patients should take caution not to rub or massage the injection sites no matter what discomfort they may experience. Often, the Botox risks that tend to be more severe or uncomfortable happen when the injections are given during a Botox party. Since these parties are often held in non-sterile environments and often with alcohol flowing freely, it is more difficult to monitor and treat any side effects or complications that could arise. 

For safety purposes, consumers should seek out a board certified professional and have a complete consultation before they decide to go through with any Botox injections. When administered by an experienced professional in a medical setting and with the prior discussion of all vital facts, this is a very safe procedure for most people. There are cosmetic surgeons in your local area waiting to discuss the possibilities of Botox for your fine lines and wrinkles. That is where you should turn for additional information and to see if you are an ideal candidate.