Ageing is one thing that is inevitable for each one of us. As we age, we experience many changes to the body and the way it works. One area that sees deterioration through ageing is the skin, and especially where visible such as on the face. We see lines appearing and marks that make us look older, and it can have an effect on some people who feel less self-assured because of the visible ageing signs.
What is the answer? There are several cosmetic procedures that can help combat ageing. These include a full or part facelift, a surgical procedure that involves some quite serious surgery and lengthy recuperation. Yet there are some non-invasive – that is not requiring an incision or surgery – options that can be a successful alternative. Botox is one of these.
You will undoubtedly have read about Botox and probably know someone who has had the procedure. If you’re reading this, it’s because you want to know more about it. So, what is Botox and why should women – and men, who are increasingly undergoing the routine – in Fort Lauderdale know about it before they have the procedure? Let’s begin with a somewhat alarming explanation of what Botox actually is.
What is Botox?
You will notice that we spell botox with a capital ‘B.’ This is because it is a trademarked name for a particular product. There are other such products that are similar and derived from the same source, but Botox is the one most commonly used. So, what is it, and why did we say you may be alarmed?
Botox is obtained from a bacteria known as clostridium botulinum. This bacterium is found naturally in soil all across the world. It is also found in the intestines of mammals and fish, and in shellfish. In itself, the bacteria is relatively harmless. It can cause infection, however, and this is where we should be alarmed.
If ingested – by a person, for example – the bacteria can be triggered to release botulinum toxin. There is no other way to put it than to say this is the single most deadly toxin known to man. 1.3 nanograms of botulinum toxin – that’s an incredibly small amount – is a lethal dose.
So, when you have Botox, you are having injected the deadliest substance on Earth. How is that in any way safe? Let’s move on and look at how a Botox procedure works, and what it attains, and then we will be able to see why it is a safe and tested anti-ageing routine.
How Does Botox Work?
We’ve probably put half our readers off Botox, but you really should not worry. It is safe, as it is delivered in far smaller amounts than the lethal dose – so small, in fact, to be barely measurable – by experienced practitioners. How does it work? Let’s go back to the main item for a moment.
Botulinum Toxin is a neurotoxin. That means it attacks the nervous system. If you were to ingest the lethal dose the toxin would act as a blockage to your nervous systems instructions to the muscles. These instructions are constant, so should they stop, the muscles will stop also. That means you will not be able to breathe and will more than likely die.
Now, think about those lines on your face. They are caused by the constant movement of facial muscles – of which there are many – which loosen the skin over time and lead to what are in fact minute sags – the lines we want to get rid of.
What if we were to inject an infinitesimal amount of this signal-blocking neurotoxin into the muscles in the face? If we could do that and they would be temporarily paralyzed that means the skin has an opportunity to tighten around the still muscles, and the lines would effectively be ‘ironed out.’ That is the Botox procedure in a nutshell. Now we need to look at what you should expect when you go to a clinic for your Botox procedure.
What To Expect from a Botox Procedure?
The Botox procedure is remarkably simple. In fact, it’s so quick and easy that many women have it done in their lunch hour! The practitioner will ensure you are comfortable and, if it is your first time, will talk you through the process. Botox is administered using a very fine needle. It will be injected in the places where the relevant muscles are. There is no need for any surgery and no incisions. Some patients say they feel a pinprick, and others nothing, so it is a relatively painless routine. It is always carried out by a qualified individual so there is no need to worry.
Once it has been done you can simply get back to work and continue your daily life. That’s how convenient Botox is. As with any cosmetic procedure there are some risks, but they are all minor with Botox.
What are the Risks with Botox?
Botox is a low-risk cosmetic routine, but you will be advised that the following are possible:
- Pain and soreness at the injection site.
- Possible infection thanks to the injection.
- Soreness and swelling of the face.
- Bruising at the injected area.
- Possible bleeding.
The above are unusual and should any occur, you will be advised by your practitioner to contact either them or a doctor immediately. Just to reassure you, Botox is dispensed in strictly controlled amounts so there is zero chance of any other problem occurring. It has been carried out many millions of times and is a safe cosmetic procedure.
How Long Does Botox Last?
Botox is not permanent as the muscles will eventually awaken and start moving your skin once more. One routine usually lasts between 3 or 4 months, and you can undergo Botox treatment as many times as you wish. Now that we’ve explained everything all you need to do is book in with your local Fort Lauderdale Botox clinic and start removing those wrinkles!