Botox Questions and Answers
Botox: How Does Botox Work?
Botox blocks signals from the nerves to the muscles. The muscle that has been injected with Botox can no longer contract, which causes the wrinkles to relax and soften.
Botox is most often used on forehead lines, crow's feet (lines around the eye) and frown lines. It is important to realize that Wrinkles caused by sun damage and gravity will not respond to Botox.
Botox: How Is the Procedure Performed?
Botox injections take only a few minutes and no anesthesia is required. The Botox is injected with a fine needle into specific muscles with only minor discomfort. It generally takes three to seven days to take full effect and it is best to avoid alcohol at least one week prior to treatment.
Aspirin and anti-inflammatory medications should be stopped two weeks before treatment as well in order to reduce bruising.
Botox: How Long Does a Botox Injection Last?
The effects from Botox can last up to six months - but usually last longer than four months. As muscle action gradually returns, the lines and wrinkles begin to re-appear and wrinkles need to be re-treated. The lines and wrinkles often appear less severe with time because the muscles are being trained to relax.
Botox: What Are the Side Effects of Botox?
The most common side effect of Botox is to have slight temporary bruising. Headaches can occur, but this is rare. A small percentage of patients may develop eyelid drooping. This usually resolves in three weeks. This development is usually caused by migration of the Botox and for this reason, you shouldn't rub the treated area for 12 hours after injection or lay down for three to four hours.
There have been no allergies associated with Botox to date.
Botox: Who Should Not Receive Botox Injections?
You should not receive Botox injections if you are pregnant, breastfeeding or have a neurological disease. Since Botox doesn't work for all wrinkles, a consultation with a doctor is recommended.
Botox: Will My Insurance Pay For It?
Insurance coverage varies for Botox injections, depending largely on the medical necessity of your condition. Botox is not generally covered by insurance when used for cosmetic purposes. Check with your insurance carrier for coverage details.
Botox: Important Safety Information
Serious heart problems and serious allergic reactions have been reported rarely. If you think you’re having an allergic reaction or other reactions, such as difficulty swallowing, speaking or breathing, call your doctor immediately.
Who is the Botox Manufacturer?
Allergan is the manufacturer of Botox and the manufacturer of Botox Cosmetic. Allergan has been a Botox manufacturer for over a decade.
From Allergan's website:
Here are some key facts about the Botox manufacturer Allergan.
- Provides products for the eye care, neuromuscular, skin care and other specialty markets
- Technology-driven, global health care company
- Develops and commercializes products to satisfy unmet needs and improve patients' lives
- Headquartered in Irvine, California, with approximately 5,200 employees worldwide
- NYSE symbol = AGN
You can find more about the Botox manufacturer Allergan at www.allergan.com
The most common side effects following injection include temporary eyelid droop and nausea. Localized pain, infection, inflammation, tenderness, swelling, redness, and/or bleeding/bruising may be associated with the injection. Patients with certain neuromuscular disorders such as ALS, myasthenia gravis, or Lambert-Eaton syndrome may be at increased risk of serious side effects.
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