Last week we discussed (and hopefully dispelled) many of the myths about the use of Botox. The FDA has approved the cosmetic use of Botox in the Glabellar region or the area between the eyes and forehead.
However, off label uses for the medicine have become common place. I like to use it around the eyes to elevate the brow, treat crows feet, and to open the eye to show more of the iris or colored part of the eye. Botox is VERY effective in these areas and due to the small size of the muscles, it requires only a very small amount.
Notice the "crows feet" around the outer aspect of the eye and the hypertrophy or enlargement of the muscle below the eye. Botox works extremely well to smooth these areas creating a more youthful look.
Another area that can be improved is the neck. Many men and women develop banding of the muscles that lead to wrinkling of the skin. Botox relaxes the muscles that cause the banding and the skin smooths very well.
A third area is around the mouth.
Many people start to form lines around the mouth due to the pursing motion of the muscles around the lips and loss of volume. Smoking, using a straw, pursing the lips all create the lines. When used carefully, Botox can help smooth these areas. Add some volume and the mouth appears much younger. Be warned that it may create some temporary weakness and this should be expected. The chin area can also be smoothed with botox.
Another off label use is for Masseter muscle enlargement.
This can occur due to genetics or teeth clenching. Botox can weaken the muscle and allow it to shrink giving the face a less angular look.
Botox can also be used to treat hyperhydrosis or excessive sweating. The best area to treat is the under arm but it is also effective on the palms and feet. Many people have this problem that cannot be resolved with anti-perspirants. A simple test done at the time of treatment shows where the sweating is most profuse and small amounts of botox are injected. It is very effective and seems to have good longevity....6 months to a year.
These are just a few of the off label uses for Botox. There are many others and more are tried all of the time.
Next week I will discuss volume replacement with dermal fillers and other things such as fat or implants.
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