Neurotoxin injections, such as Botox, Dysport, Xeomin and others, are a class of prescription drug made from the Clostridium botulinum bacterium that is used to temporarily paralyze muscle activity. According to statistics from the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, these injections are the most popular minimally invasive cosmetic procedure available.
What Do These Injections Do?
Neurotoxin injections are primarily used to reduce the appearance of facial wrinkles by blocking signals from your nerves to your muscles, preventing them from contracting. This causes the wrinkles to relax and soften. More specifically, Botox and other similar botulinum treatments are most useful in treating:
- Glabellar lines (a.k.a. “elevens” or frown lines)
- Wrinkles around the eyes such as crow’s feet
- Forehead creases
- Corners of the mouth
- A “cobblestoned” appearance on the chin
How Is the Procedure Performed?
Administering neurotoxin injections takes just a few minutes and doesn’t require anesthesia. A numbing medication or cream can be applied to the skin beforehand, if you’re worried about discomfort. Your doctor will use a thin needle to inject a small dose into your skin or specific muscles.
Results usually take a few days to appear and will last anywhere from three to 12 months. Maintenance injections are needed if you wish to continue treatment beyond the initial dose.
Some temporary bruising at the injection site is common but beyond that, side effects are rare. They may include headaches, drooping eyelids and a crooked smile. In rare cases the botulinum toxin may spread to other parts of the body and cause problems.
Contact a medical professional right away if you experience muscle weakness, vision problems, trouble speaking or swallowing, breathing difficulties or loss of bladder control.
Neurotoxin injections can be dangerous if administered improperly, so be sure to choose a skilled and certified doctor who is experienced with these injections.