DR: Botulinum toxin (Botox) is a chemical produced by the botulinum bacteria. Botox is a protein derivative of this toxin, which, when injected into a muscle, causes it to become weakened or inactivated. It stops the muscle from functioning by blocking neuromuscular transmission – i.e. it stops the chemical message from the nerve to the muscle. By using facial muscles repeatedly throughout a lifetime, the skin is creased in areas of greatest use. The aging process causes the slow down of collagen and elastin production in the skin so that as we get older, these areas of overuse become damaged and the lines become permanent. By reducing the movement of muscles in these areas, the skin stops being creased and is allowed to recover, causing the lines to soften or even fade away.
For the first couple of years, frequent treatments are required to ‘re-educate’ the facial muscles. Thereafter, treatments would be less frequent.
Q: But is it safe if it is a toxin?
DR: The very small dose of Botox administered during cosmetic therapy, has a very high margin of safety, and the area in which the Botox spreads is about the size of a fingernail around the injection.
Q: OK, now where can I get Botox?
DR: There are many companies offering Botox treatment including Broadgate General Practice. We offer the advantage of the treatment being performed by both an expert in the area, and a trained doctor.
Website: Broadgate General Practice
