Botulinum toxin (Botox©) is a neurotoxic protein produced by the bacterium Clostridium botulinum that causes paralysis or ineffectiveness of the muscle treated. It does so by preventing the release of the neurotransmitter acetylcholine from nerve endings at the transition point between nerve and muscle. Injecting Botox© in just the right part of the right facial muscle, can significantly reduces wrinkles of the facial skin, as well as giving either a partial or complete lift of the eyebrow. There are many different treatment modalities for the use of Botox© in cosmetic medicine, think of eliminating the wrinkles around the eyes, between the eyebrows, the forehead. Botox© injection it is a very safe treatment with no downtime. For these reasons it has evolved as the most performed aesthetic procedure in current day cosmetic medicine. Because the effects of Botox© last between 3-6 months, treatment does need to be repeated when the desired result is desired to be maintained.
At his work in the hospital dr. van der Veen uses Botox© frequently to treat patients with abnormal facial contractions, the majority of which around the eyes, a condition called blepharospasm (involuntary contractions of the eyelids). For these patients the treatments with Botox© can significantly improve their quality of life as soon as the Botox© takes full effect, usually about 2-3 days. Depending on the severity of the spasm and the amount of Botox© that is used and tolerated by the patient, the effect can last up to 6 months.
When considering Botox© treatment it is important to let yourself be informed by a well trained specialist. The benefit in seeking out an oculoplastic surgeon lies in the fact that they always keep the health and function of your eyes in mind, when performing aesthetic procedures around the eyes. Because oculoplastic surgeons are also trained as ophthalmologist they are equipped to check for any tendency to dry eyes one might have, which could possibly be aggravated by the use of Botox©. The specific tests needed to determine this are easy to do in office and only take a few minutes. Get in touch for a consultation at one of our clinics.
