For those who like to undergo aesthetic procedures, it is important to be aware of the risks of botox that the media does not disclose.
Botox has been used since the 1980s. Initially, it was used in the eye to treat strabismus. Because botox worked to relax the rectus ocular muscle, making strabismus improve. But, starting in the 2000s, it began to be used for medical aesthetic purposes. However, not everyone knows the health risks of botox.
In short, botulinum toxin type A or botox, as it is better known, is a substance obtained from the bacterium Clostridium botulinum. Furthermore, it is widely used in facial rejuvenation treatments with the aim of softening the appearance of wrinkles and expression marks.
Therefore, it is one of the most popular and sought after procedures by Brazilians. However, there are risks in using botox, for example, the occurrence of paralysis of facial movements, asymmetries in the eyebrows and eyes, among others.
Finally, it was in 1987 that the Canadian ophthalmologist couple Jean and Alastair Carruthers discovered the use of botulinum toxin type A to treat wrinkles. The discovery was made while treating blephorospasm, a disease that causes muscle dysfunction in the eye area.
How is botox applied?
Before knowing about the risks of botox, it is important to understand how the toxin works. In short, botox is applied by inserting botulinum toxin type A directly into the muscles of the face. The objective is to make the face more harmonious, without wrinkles and expression marks. Providing a more youthful appearance to the patient.
Typically, Botox is applied in sessions that can last between 4 and 6 months. In each session, the toxin is applied to strategic points on the face. Finally, it is possible to notice the first changes just after 48 hours of application, with the maximum potential reached 15 days after the session.
The application of botox helps in the treatments of:
- Dynamic wrinkles
- Expression marks on any part of the face
- Changing the design of the eyebrows
- Excessive sweating (hyperhidrosis)
Is Botox bad?
According to dermatologists, as long as it is applied in correct doses, botox does not harm the patient. Not even in the long term. Because, the components of the toxin are absorbed by the body over time. Furthermore, the toxin for the procedure must be certified by the National Health Surveillance Agency (Anvisa).
Ultimately, the effects of Botox are reversible. However, even when applied in small quantities, there is a risk of poisoning or infection, however, they are small.
Furthermore, both men and women can undergo aesthetic procedures using botox. Which are done in dermatological offices. And contrary to what many believe, muscles do not become resistant to the toxin over time.
On the other hand, as your skin ages, it may be necessary to increase Botox doses. However, dermatologists warn that some people may develop antibodies to the toxin. Increasing resistance to the effects provided by botox. Therefore, it is necessary to maintain an interval of 4 to 6 months between applications.
Botox risks
1- Facial paralysis
Among the risks of Botox is paralysis in specific parts of the face. In short, treatment with botulinum toxin type A seeks to relax and soften the muscles to eliminate wrinkles and expression marks.
However, if botox is applied in large quantities. If a muscle other than the area to be treated is affected, it can cause paralysis or leave the mouth crooked.
2- Risks of botox: Botulism
Although it is difficult to happen, it is also part of the risks of botox contamination by botulism. Furthermore, it can occur due to the professional’s inexperience, the use of a toxin that is not approved by Anvisa and the application of large quantities of botulinum toxin.
In short, botulism is a disease caused by the same bacteria from which botox is obtained. This can cause muscle paralysis and difficulty swallowing food. However, in more serious cases, botulism can impair breathing and heart function.
3- Symptoms of flu
Botox injection can also cause flu-like symptoms, which is a reaction to the injected toxin.
4- Risks of botox: Swelling in the region
Also among the risks of botox is the appearance of edema or swelling in the place where you applied the toxin. But, it usually disappears after a few days.
5- Headache
Continuing with the risks of botox, between 10 and 20% of patients experience a headache for a few days after applying the toxin. Anyway, the pain can be mild or moderate.
6- Risks of botox: Asymmetries
One of the most common risks of botox is facial asymmetry. In other words, one eyebrow may be more raised than another, one eye more closed than another or one part of the face more rigid.
However, after 4 or 6 months Botox loses its effect and the asymmetry decreases. Furthermore, doctors do not recommend applying the toxin to the temples or side of the forehead.
Likewise, doctors advise people who have marked sagging facial skin not to use the toxin.
7- Allergic reaction
Although it is rare, the application of Botox can cause an allergic reaction in some people. Therefore, it is important to talk to your doctor before the procedure about your history of allergies.
8- Risks of botox: Plasticized appearance
When applying the toxin, one of the risks of botox is having a plasticized appearance. In other words, having a strange and artificial smile, as well as an artificial facial expression. In fact, some patients have difficulty sucking a straw and speaking certain sounds. Mainly when botox is applied around the lips. Finally, there are also patients who have difficulty turning their neck.
9- Pregnant women and people with autoimmune diseases
Due to the risks of Botox, pregnant or breastfeeding women should not use the toxin. Likewise, the use of Botox is contraindicated for people with autoimmune or neuromuscular diseases. For example, muscular dystrophy, myasthenia gravis, myopathies, among others. The procedure can result in health complications.
Botox risks: other treatments
According to dermatologists, botulinum toxin type A can also be used in therapeutic treatments. As in the treatment of facial paralysis in patients who have suffered a stroke, for example.
However, to avoid the risks of botox, it is important that the procedure is carried out by a professional who knows the facial anatomy and the toxin well. Therefore, those best suited to carry out the procedure are dermatologists and plastic surgeons. Therefore, do not apply Botox anywhere, look for specialized professionals.
So, if you liked this article, read also: Learn about Bell’s palsy, a disease that compromised Angelina Jolie’s facial movements.
