Botox injections have gone from being used to treat crossed eyes (strabismus) in the 1970s to a variety of uses in medical and cosmetic applications. From wrinkle filling, migraine treatments, bladder dysfunction, to eye twitching, Botox seems to be everywhere, treating patients for any number of conditions. Over the years, a lot of misconceptions about Botox have come up, from how it affects patients to how safe it is to use. Let’s clear up some common myths to get to the facts.
For Botox treatments and many other medical services the Little River, South Carolina area can depend on the experienced, capable Dr. Rogers Walker and the staff at Walker Urgent and Family Care.
Here are some common myths about Botox:
Myth: Because Botox is derived from the botulinum toxin, which is present in botulism (a form of food poison that can cause trouble breathing, facial weakness, and paralysis), there have been a lot of myths surrounding what it does to the body. It has led to some people thinking that Botox is toxic and may actually cause botulism symptoms.
Fact: However, Botox uses only trace amounts of the botulinum toxin in treatments to help relax muscles, so there’s no chance of botulism or other toxic side effects. It is a very safe treatment.
Myth: Many patients already have problems with needles and injections in general, so it’s easy to think that these injections are painful.
Fact: Botox injections can be done with short needles, which are less painful, and a topical anesthetic can be used. Many people that have had Botox say they barely feel the treatment, and it’s more like a slight pinch.
Myth: The cosmetic injection treatments are designed to smooth lines, creases, and wrinkles by paralyzing specific muscles. This makes some people think that multiple treatments may lead to immobilizing the muscles in those areas. This would cause patients to be unable to smile, frown, or emote in other ways.
Fact: None of this is the case. Multiple treatments are often used because the creases and wrinkles return over time. The way muscles act as people age is a natural part of aging, and the injections help smooth muscles for a limited time. Since the Botox doesn’t stay permanently, it can’t lead to problems like frozen face.
Myth: Another mistake people make about Botox injections is they think that the treatment itself will only make wrinkles and creases worse over time. The idea is that once the Botox has left the system, the wrinkles that were there before will actually become more pronounced and make you look older.
Fact: Once a treatment has left the system, the wrinkles will, at worst, return to their previous state. Botox doesn’t weaken muscles or create more problems. It relaxes muscles temporarily to smooth skin and only stays in the system for a limited time.
Hopefully, this clears up concerns about Botox treatments. If you are interested in treatments and have questions, make an appointment with Dr. Walker and Walker Urgent & Family Care today to get answers and treatment.
