The
American Association of Facial and Plastic Reconstructive
Surgery statistics show that the number of people receiving
Botox injections has increased 60% since its approval in the
year 2000. Botox continues to be the number one non-surgical
cosmetic procedure.
There are forty-four muscles in the human face which, depending
on size and activity, would require different doses of Botox.
Since improper injection could leave patients unable to smile
evenly, or lift their eyebrows or eyelids, a trained professional
should preside over the treatment, as with any other cosmetic
procedure. Dr. Kikkawa, Director of Ophthalmic Plastic and
Reconstructive Surgery at the University of California, San
Diego agrees, “It is extremely important to have a well-trained
physician administer the injections to avoid any complications
that might arise. It is imperative that patients seek out
an eye specialist to avoid drooping lids and other complications
due to improper administration.”
Botulinum Toxin, the chemical name for Botox, is a bacterial
derivative that paralyses the muscle surrounding the injection
site, leaving a smooth surface which can last for several
months. For many people, Botox is a more affordable alternative
to plastic surgery. The fact that Botox is temporary leaves
many patients feeling at ease, as they are not committed to
the results.
Artecoll, expecting FDA approval within the year, might be
a stepping-stone between the surface treatments of Botox and
the costly treatments of surgery. Artecoll, an injectable
filler, permanently fills the deeper wrinkles around the eyes.
It was developed in 1994 and has since been used in Canada,
Mexico, South America and Europe. The risks involved might
include improper injection leading to lumps on the face.
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Restylane,
a non-animal based product uses hyaluronic acid, the universal
component naturally found between cells of human and animal
tissue. Dr. Kikkawa of Shiley Eye Center notes, “Hyaluronic
acid is naturally found in body tissue, so it is a good
alternative to synthetic injections.” Although not
yet approved by the FDA for cosmetic use, hyaluronic acid
has been used in cataract surgery in the United States to
act as a shock absorber to help protect the cornea during
surgery. Results may last up to one year for wrinkle injections
and six months for lip injections. Results vary depending
on the patient and the method of injection.
While more Americans leap at the chance to regain their
youthful glow and elasticity, using Botox or one of the
“fillers” is not always a safer alternative
to surgery. According to Dr. Kikkawa, “The injection
of Botox should be weighed as heavily as any surgical procedure
since there are still risks involved. Unfortunately, some
patients do not see the need for the necessary consultation
and informational sessions that take place before the procedure.”
With the simplicity of receiving these injections from anyone,
including non-physicians, patients are left with a false
sense of confidence that may lead to temporary deformities.
The best choice for any cosmetic injection around the eye
is an eye specialist with extensive training in that area
of the body.
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