Botox

Safety concerns of Botox injections

Medical use of Botulinum toxin started in the 1950's. In 1979 it was approved by FDA for treatment of strabismus.

In 1987 Dr. Jean Carruthers, while treating patients for essential blepharospasm, made the observation that the patients had significant improvement of the dynamic rhytids of the glabellar region.

Since then, together with her husband, dermatologist Dr Alastair Carruthers, she has initiated a more systemic use for cosmetic purposes.

Complications have been minor and only transient. Bruising may occur where injected and a brief pain or headache may follow. Bruising may be greater in patients who are taking aspirin or any blood thinning medicines.

These products should be avoided if possible prior to the injection. Ice helps to prevent bruising. Muscle weakness is first noted at 24 to 48 hours, and not immediately after treatment.

Transient drooping of one eyelid or both is the most significant complication and occurs in well below 1% of all injections.

This is a result of the local spread of the toxin in the injection site and can be minimized by accurate dosage, proper placement, as well as keeping the patient in an upright position for three to four hours after the injection.

This symptom will subside in two weeks. Special eye drops may temporarily reduce eyelid droop.

Who should not use Botox?

You cannot be treated if you are pregnant, nursing or have a neurologic disease. It is therefore very important to discuss with your surgeon if this treatment is appropriate for you.

Things to avoid

• Do not massage the area of the injection for the first 3 hours after its administration.
• Do not lie down for a nap - keep upright for about 3 hours.
• Use the muscle - Intentionally making the muscle contract helps localize the protein to the selected muscle for ablation.