Botox® Injections are one of the most popular cosmetic treatments in the country, but some people still have reservations about fighting Wrinkles with this revolutionary injection. After all, it’s made of botulinum toxin, which sounds scary if you don’t know anything else about it.
But in reality, there’s nothing to be scared of when it comes to Botox® injections, not even the very small needle. Here’s why you can trust that Botox® is safe:
It’s Older Than You Think
While many people think of Botox® as a modern medicine, and didn’t know it existed before the 2000s, in reality it’s been used for medical purposes since 1978. It started as a treatment for crossed eyes and tics in the eyelid. Botox® stops the nerve signals from reaching the muscles in these areas, allowing eyes and eyelids to relax. That’s how it reduces the appearance of wrinkles, too. It blocks nerve signals, allowing your facial muscles to relax instead of forming wrinkles.
It’s FDA Approved
Because Botox® was so safe to use in sensitive areas around the eyes, it received FDA approval in 1989 to treat strabismus (crossed eyes). In 1992, doctors first noted how it reduced the appearance of wrinkles and could be used cosmetically. Since then, it has continued to gain FDA approval for numerous uses, including:
- – Headaches
- – Urinary incontinence
- – Spasticity (tight muscles)
- – Neck pain
- – Excessive sweating
- – Cosmetic treatment of forehead wrinkles
To gain FDA approval for all these uses, Botox® had to be proven safe in numerous clinical trials. It had to pass rigorous testing so that you as a patient and consumer can trust it.
Adverse Events Are Rare
In all the years Botox® has been used in millions of people, only 36 adverse events have been reported to the FDA. These events may have had more to do with existing health problems in the people undergoing Botox® than the Botox® itself. These adverse effects were also more likely in non-cosmetic treatments when a higher dose of Botox® is needed to be effective.
The most common side effects are redness or bruising from the injections itself, not the Botox® medicine. These side effects typically last just a day or two.
Though botulinum toxin is poisonous in a large dose, the truth is that Botox® is such a small dose the risk is nearly nonexistent. It is a safe and effective way to get a younger-looking appearance with just a 30-minute appointment.
If you are considered about any risks, the best way to feel safe is to visit a board-certified cosmetic surgeon who has a specially trained and experienced staff to help you. You should always visit a reputable medical spa for the safest possible experience and the best results.
At The Spa and Laser Center in Virginia Beach, our expert technicians deliver thousands of doses of Botox® each year to people of all ages and backgrounds. They provide personalized treatment to help you achieve a younger-looking appearance and smoother skin. Contact us today at 757-965-7444 or online to schedule your Botox® consultation.
