Botulinum toxin
Botulinum toxin (a protein produced by the bacterium Clostridium botulinum) has been used in Lithuania to reduce the signs of facial aging and as a means of removing excess sweating from the palms, feet and armpits.
The formation of facial wrinkles is determined by the elastic properties of the skin and the active long-term activity of the facial muscles when we are smiling, sad, angry, and performing other facial expressions. When facial wrinkles become noticeable, they can be corrected with botulinum toxin injections
Botulinum toxin is a neurotoxin secreted by the anaerobic bacterium Clostridium botulinum.
This neurotoxin interferes with the release of the mediator acetylcholine in the nerve endings, which disrupts the propagation of the nerve impulse at the junction of the nerve and muscle and the contraction of the muscle. As the mediator does not separate, the muscle relaxes and becomes immobile, causing paralysis. When the muscle relaxes, the wrinkles are smoothed out and the formation of new wrinkles is stopped. Botulinum toxin A is used in clinical and aesthetic practice.
Botulinum toxin injection procedure
Botulinum toxin injections are a very quick and almost painless procedure that takes about 20-30 minutes. The areas of the skin where botulinum toxin will be injected are lubricated with anesthetic ointment. After a few minutes, a thin needle is injected in certain doses into the intended areas of the forehead, eyes, nose, lips or chin. Also in the armpits, palms or soles if it is an injection against sweating.
Botulinum toxin injections are given no more than twice a year, i. approximately every 6 months. The effect usually lasts up to half a year, after which it gradually diminishes. To maintain the results obtained, it is advisable to repeat the procedure.
Botulinum toxin is usually activated within 24-72 hours, sometimes within 2 weeks, and needs to be evaluated after 3 weeks. Repeating the injection 2-3 times may completely eliminate the problem.
Botulinum toxin injections are given for several reasons:
- To reduce the formation of wrinkles;
- Reduce sweating in the armpits, palms and soles;
- For clinical purposes: e.g. to prevent migraine pain, muscle spasms.
Indications for botulinum toxin injections to reduce excessive sweating (hyperhidrosis):
- a lot of sweating to rest and the temperature is not high;
- you need to clean your hands and avoid hand clicks greeting at all times as your hands are sweaty;
- sweat from the forehead should be cleaned throughout the day
you feel uncomfortable and irritated because you sweat a lot and would like to wear a jacket all the time to hide your sweating, even if it is hot.
Warnings
Adverse reactions that may occur after botulinum toxin injections:
- Pain / bruising at the injection site;
- Allergy or hypersensitivity;
- Itching and skin rash;
- General weakness feeling.
Until botulinum toxin is completely activated, heat and temperature rise should be avoided and therefore:
- Warm up in the sauna;
- Sunbathing in the sun, in the solarium;
- Do not take a hot bath;
- Do not exercise until the heat.
- Also less than 6 hours after the procedure. do not lie on your stomach and on your sides. Avoid any contact with the injection site for the next 12 hours, unless your doctor tells you otherwise.