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Botox is the brand name given to botulinum toxin, which is a neurotoxic protein that is widely used in medicine, cosmetics, and research. “The toxin is generally considered to be safe and can be carefully injected into the body in specific areas based on the issue it is being used to treat,” notes Dr. Miriam Hanson, board-certified dermatologist and cosmetic expert at Sanova Dermatology in Austin, Texas.
Botox is used in a variety of medical procedures, such as the treatment of certain muscular conditions. “Muscle spasticity, or overactive muscle movement, of the head, neck, limbs, vocal cords, etc., can be treated by injections of botulinum toxin,” shares Dr. Hanson. Other muscle groups and even overactive nerves can also be treated with the toxin in order to relieve a variety of symptoms, such as neuropathic pain, excessive sweating, and even some symptoms caused by allergies.
The toxin has also been used in the treatment of strabismus, commonly referred to as ‘crossed eyes’. “Strabismus is caused by an imbalance in the muscles that rotate the eyes,” Dr. Hanson informs. Botox in Greenville, SC, can be used to strategically weaken one of the muscles and help restore proper alignment.
Botox may be better known for its use in elective cosmetic procedures, where it is commonly used to smooth facial wrinkles by temporarily paralyzing the muscles. The results of Botox treatment are typically visible after three days, and remain maximally visible for up to two weeks. Since the paralyzed muscles will gradually regain function, they will have to be treated again in order to preserve the effect.