It wasn’t until recently that facial plastic surgery became a staple in modern medicine; this largely due to the development of transformative technologies and procedures within the last few decades. In a short span of time, such procedures have become increasingly less-invasive and increasingly more effective.

 

Perhaps the most widely-known facial plastic surgery that actually requires no surgery at all, is Botox. We all know the word and have associated it with a number of things both positive and negative. The truth of the matter is, there is legitimate science behind the use of Botox in facial plastic surgery, and although generally misunderstood, it provides considerable benefit.

 

What Exactly Is Botox?

 

Botox, known formally as Botulinum Toxin, is a protein produced by certain species of bacteria, principal among them is Clostridium botulinum. This protein prevents the release of certain neurotransmitters from axon endings thereby causing muscle paralysis at the junction where the protein is introduced. Since the protein is created by bacteria, it is a naturally occurring substance— not synthesized artificially.

 

Although the name carries the word ‘toxin’ it is not at all harmful when applied correctly, in fact, Botox can be quite helpful and has been FDA approved as a sound treatment option for the following:

 

  • Prophylaxis of headaches in adults with chronic migraine. Learn more.
  • Lower leg spasticity in children. Learn more.
  • Treatment of severe underarm sweating. Learn more.

 

In addition to the aforementioned medical uses, Botox is an effective and safe way to relax and soften facial features to greatly reduce wrinkles. In short, Botox is a naturally occurring protein that provides many medical benefits.

 

The Birth of Cosmetic Botox Injections

 

In the world of medicine, Botox first found its foothold in ophthalmology as a treatment for various eye conditions. It wasn’t until 1987 that Vancouver doctors Jean and Alastair Carruthers stumbled upon the cosmetic advantages of the protein and created the genesis of a now billion-dollar industry.

 

Dr. Jean Carruthers began injecting herself with the substance, noting that she hadn’t frowned since she began doing so. In 1991, the results were presented at a meeting for the American Society for Dermatologic Surgery. Though originally disregarded, it didn’t take long for the procedure to snowball. By 1993, Dr. Carruthers qualified as a cosmetic surgeon and began focusing on Botox and other cosmetic procedures. Few would have guessed what Botox would eventually become.

 

Results and Outcomes

 

Today, Botox tops the list of minimally invasive plastic surgery procedures— and by no small margin. According to the 2018 Plastic Surgery Statistics Report, there were 7,437,378 Botox procedures carried out nationwide. That was an increase of 3% from the year prior and more than an 89% increase from the year 2000.

 

When studying the data, Botox eclipses all other plastic surgery procedures when it comes to incidence. As before mentioned, there are a number of legitimate medical applications for Botox. The science behind the protein is well-studied and can have profound, positive effects on the body. Aesthetically, Botox procedures work wonders, helping to relax and soften wrinkles in the face, neck, and other areas of the body, bringing back the glow of youth.

 

Treatments take just a few short minutes and last a fair length of time. In general, the effects of Botox fade after 3-4 months. Depending on the individual, some will see results for as long as 4-6 months, while for others, the effects will diminish after 2 months. However, for a non-invasive, quick, painless procedure it is well worthwhile for many.

 

Botox procedures are a safe, painless way to minimize signs of aging and enhance natural features. If you have inquiries about Botox procedures or processes and want to explore your options, contact your Utah plastic surgery professionals at Barr Aesthetics today.