Botulinum Toxin Injections
Botulinum toxin, commonly known as Botox, is used in aesthetic medicine to reduce wrinkles and expression lines (dynamic wrinkles). Botulinum toxin works by blocking nerve signals to the muscles, reducing muscle contractions. This decreases facial expressions and helps prevent wrinkle formation. Botox injections are administered at specific points based on the indications.
The effects of botulinum toxin are temporary, typically lasting around six months. To maintain the effect, it is recommended to repeat the injections 1–2 times per year. Properly administered Botox injections are safe, as botulinum toxin in the correct doses does not pose health risks. The procedure should only be performed by a certified specialist.
Botox injections can help address:
- Horizontal forehead lines
- Vertical and horizontal lines between the eyebrows
- Crow’s feet around the eyes
Botox can also be used preventatively to delay the formation of static wrinkles. Static wrinkles develop over time due to active facial expressions—dynamic wrinkles, once visible only during movements such as smiling or frowning, eventually become noticeable even when the face is at rest.
Uses Beyond Aesthetic Medicine
Botulinum toxin injections are not only applied in aesthetic medicine for correcting dynamic facial wrinkles but also in treating various health conditions associated with excessive muscle activity or tension, such as:
- Bruxism: Overactivity of the jaw muscles leads to jaw tension, teeth grinding, and wear, chronic pain, as well as difficulties with speaking, swallowing, and chewing. Botox injections can relieve muscle tension, slow the progression of dental damage, improve sleep quality, and reduce headaches. Additionally, they can enhance facial aesthetics by restoring balance to the facial contour.
- Migraines: Recurrent, severe headaches. Botox injections, approved by the FDA, effectively reduce nerve irritation in the scalp associated with migraines.
- Hyperhidrosis: Excessive sweating in localized areas such as the underarms, palms, and soles. This condition can affect anyone and create significant challenges for individuals in certain professions (musicians, performers, beauty specialists, office workers, etc.).
- Vaginismus: As part of multidisciplinary therapy (involving a gynecologist, dermatologist, psychotherapist, and physiotherapist), Botox injections help women suffering from involuntary muscle spasms in the vaginal entrance, making intercourse extremely painful or impossible.
Contraindications:
- Hypersensitivity to the active substance or any excipients
- General muscle activity disorders
- Infection at the injection site
- Use of medications affecting neuromuscular transmission
- Pregnancy or breastfeeding
- Oncological diseases
- Uncontrolled or uncompensated systemic diseases
- Tendency to form keloid scars
- Blood clotting disorders
- Acute stages of chronic illnesses
- Psychiatric disorders
- Age under 18
- It is not advisable to schedule injections during menstruation due to increased risk of bruising and heightened sensitivity.
Safety Factors for Botox Injections (A.I.T.P.):
- A – Anatomy: The medical professional must have a thorough understanding of anatomical structures, their locations, and be prepared to address potential complications.
- I – Indications: Each injectable preparation has specific indications for its use. The specialist must evaluate and adapt to the client’s needs based on skin quality.
- T – Technique: Proper and safe injection techniques require the specialist’s knowledge and experience.
- P – Products: Ensure the quality of the injected material meets European Medicines Agency (EMA) certification, CE certification, and MDD (Medical Devices Directive) standards