Data from the American Society of Plastic Surgeons revealed the rise of cosmetic procedures.
In 2017, there were 17.5 million surgical and minimally-invasive cosmetic procedures done in America.
Minimally invasive procedures, in particular, are on the rise, with an increase of almost 200% since the year 2000. Out of the 15.7 million minimally-invasive cosmetic procedures done in 2017, Botox was the number one procedure.
In fact, 7.23 million Botox procedures were performed in 2017. That number went up 2 percent from 2016.
After Botox, the next popular procedures were fillers, chemical peels, laser hair removal, and microdermabrasion.
Are you thinking about getting Botox but not sure if you should go for it? Do you want to know what are the positives and negatives of getting Botox injections?
Read on to learn all about the pros and cons of Botox and decide if it is the right treatment for you.
What Is Botox?
Botulinum toxin A, more commonly known as Botox, is a chemical that causes muscle paralysis.
The main ingredient in Botox is essentially a neurotoxin. The toxin blocks signals to your brain and stop your muscles from contracting.
Not the Same as Botulism
Botox is not the same as Botulism. This is a dangerous, sometimes fatal type of food poisoning.
However, both Botox and Botulism contain the same neurotoxin, botulinum. The botulinum in botulism causes muscle paralysis in the chest.
While Botulism can be extremely dangerous, Botox is only injected into your facial muscles and does not spread to other parts of your body.
In fact, the Food and Drug Administration approved Botox for cosmetic procedures in 2002. The FDA also approved Botox for use of medical treatments in 1989.
How Does Botox Work?
Wrinkles are actually repetitive use injuries on your face. When the muscles on your face, such as on your forehead, contract over and over again, wrinkles occur.
Botox works by paralyzing those muscles on your face. If your muscles can’t contract, wrinkles can’t form. This results in a smoother face with fewer wrinkles.
With Botox, you can remove unwanted crow’s feet, lines between your eyebrows, and other signs of aging.
What are the Pros and Cons of Botox?
As with any treatment, there are advantages and disadvantages to using Botox. Read on to learn more.
Pros of Botox
Instant Results
Botox injections give you quick results. You will see results about 2 hours to two days after the procedure. This is useful if you have an event to attend in the near future such as a wedding or party and want to look your best.
Short, Quick Procedure
The doctor only needs 5-10 minutes on average to administer the Botox injections. This allows you to quickly have the treatment done and to go about your day.
Temporary
If in the future you decide you don’t want to get any more Botox treatments, you can stop treatments at any time. Your skin will go back to its original features after a while.
Minimally Invasive
Botox revolutionized the cosmetic surgery industry. When people wanted to look younger, they would have to go under the knife.
Now, there is no need for any cutting, stitching, or surgical procedures. Botox is great if you want to improve your appearance without having to do a painful, invasive procedure.
Botox Has Other Uses
There are many other uses for Botox other than treating wrinkles. Botox also treats eye disorders such as crossed eyes and blinking uncountably. Botox also treats movement disorders such as muscle spasms.
Moreover, some individuals use Botox to treat headaches and migraines. It is also used for those with overactive bladder. People with hyperhidrosis also use Botox injections to stop underarm sweat.
However, just like with wrinkles, the effects are temporary and patients need to take regular doses.
In the future, researchers might find even more uses for Botox.
Cons of Botox
Temporary
Although listed as a pro, this can also be a disadvantage. Botox treatments last about 3-6 months. If you want to maintain a wrinkle-free face, you would need to continually go in for treatments at a regular interval.
A Doctor Must Administer It
Doctors should be the only ones to administer Botox treatments.
Pricey
Botox is costly. The cost of a treatment can range from $300-$1200.
The cost of Botox also depends on the quality of the injections. If you want a youthful appearance, you have to spend the money and keep up with a regular schedule of treatments.
Possible Allergic Reactions
Some people can have allergic reactions to Botox. These reactions can range from irritating to severe and may require medical treatment.
Possible Side Effects
Like all drugs, Botox carries potential side effects. Some side effects include a headache and flu-like symptoms. About 5 percent of Botox patients can get Ptosis, which is when one or both eyelids droop.
Prevents Facial Expressions
For some individuals, Botox can limit certain facial expressions such as raising your eyebrows.
What Else Should I Know Before Getting Botox?
Make sure you find a trusted doctor who specializes in cosmetic procedures. You can interview potential doctors and see if you feel at ease with them. Do your research and get more info about those offering Botox injections in your area.
Should I Get Botox?
Wondering if Botox is right for you? Like all medical treatments, you should carefully weigh the pros and cons of Botox. You should also be sure to consult with a medical professional.
Botox is a non-invasive, quick procedure that can reduce the appearance of wrinkles. If you want to look younger, then you might consider Botox treatments.
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