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How Young Is Too Young for Botox?
Teenage girls are turning to Botox injections in growing numbers, even though doctors say there is little benefit. Teens in the U.S. ages 13 to 19 had nearly 12,000 Botox injections last year, according to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, and some of them got multiple doses. It’s a 2 percent increase over 2008. Botulinum toxin – United States – Plastic surgery – Surgery – Health
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Jane Cullen on how to make that sun-kissed glow last long after your holiday.
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Botox, Restylane and Collagen are the darlings of many cosmetic surgeons’ because these products create a huge cash flow upsurge that boosts their bottom line. These same products provide a very temporary result that requires multiple treatments every year; most patients, mainly women, are willing to continue the injections giving no thought to how their faces will look or behave if they stop using these crutches.

A FDA article says, “In 2001, more than 1.6 million people received injections, an increase of 46 percent over the previous year. More popular than breast enhancement surgery and a potential blockbuster, Botox is regarded by some as the ultimate fountain of youth.” On the other hand, the FDA describes Botox Cosmetic as a toxin.

http://www.fda.gov/bbs/topics/ANSWERS/2002/ANS01147.html Updating the figure for injections, Botox led the way in 2005.

Should there be concern for over-treatment or abuse when it comes to using these products? The above referenced FDA article echoes concern that Botox use could be easily abused, especially when untrained and unqualified people are doing the injecting at $500 a treatment. Abuse also comes when the patient complains to the care giver that the treatment was not as effective as promised so the injection is repeated before the recommended waiting period has lapsed.

If the results of a typical injection last 120 days, that means a patient returns at least three times per year to repeat the procedure to maintain that paralyzed look. At what point does a patient reach saturation with these drugs? One-tenth of a teaspoon, the typical amount of product used for the forehead, doesn’t sound like much in terms of product usage but the burning question remains: what is the long-term ramification of injecting a toxin into the body several times a year?

Most cosmetic Botox injections target the forehead lines, the concentration lines between the brows and the area around the eyes. These particular lines and creases indicate that the underlying muscles have lost elasticity and tone from atrophy coupled with continued repetitive motion. Yes, the motion needs to be stopped but surprisingly, stopping the learned behavior of frowning or raising the forehead when emoting requires behavior modification not paralyzing toxins.

There is a non-invasive, all natural remedy for muscles that are lax – it’s not an injection and it’s not a cream. It’s exercise! Exercise using isometric and resistance movements can easily tighten the underlying muscles of the face and neck. Imagine, learning a series of exercise motions that you can use forever and the results can stave off the need for injections because the underlying muscles will plump up and become strong again. When the muscles are made stronger, the skin feels and acts like younger skin.

Botox is not the Fountain of Youth – it is a toxin that blocks the release of a chemical by nerve cells that signal muscle contraction. When normal muscle contraction is inhibited, new wrinkles can begin their formation. That’s right – New wrinkles are developed when compensating for other muscles lack of movement.

Exercise for the face can keep the underlying muscles strong so that wrinkles are less likely to form. Why resort to man-made chemicals when exercise can help you look younger and healthier? Remember, beauty injections do not cure; they only temporarily mask the symptoms.

Cynthia Rowland is widely recognized as an expert in all natural facial fitness with over thirty years experience in health & beauty related fields. She has appeared on The View, Fit TV, HGTV and other popular shows. This author, speaker and television personality is leading the crusade to keep men and women looking vibrantly younger through natural techniques without spending their children’s inheritance.

Botox is derived from Clostridium Botulinum, a bacterium that can cause health hazards when eaten. But since it is used as an injectable created in a laboratory and not ingested, it is very safe. Botox tends to “freeze” muscles or relax tight muscles that cause the wrinkles. This leads to minimization, if not total removal, of superficial wrinkles when injected in the affected area. Because the muscles seem to have frozen, the movement is minimal, thus, eliminating the existence of creases.

This procedure only takes 10-15 minutes, which is very convenient even for the busiest people. All the patient has to do is sit down comfortably and force a smile so as to help the doctor identify which area to inject the Botox in. As simple as that, the unwanted creases in your face are practically removed.

This non-surgical treatment has proven to be effective and because of this, it rapidly became widely accepted worldwide. The effect of Botox has convinced a lot of people to try it out.

about how it achieves the results it does. Despite its recent rise to fame, the original research into this product is a few decades old. It may be famous now for its use in cosmetic surgery but it wasn’t always that way when it was first being studied by scientists half a century ago; it was used to treat patients with neurological problems.

A treatment finally came in 1989 when the FDA granted approval for it to be used on these patients with visual conditions; patients suffering with uncontrollable blinking and crossed eyes were given this and sometimes those who suffered with wrinkles as well. By the new millennium it had been approved for a number of other conditions including cervical dystonia; this disorder causes severe neck and shoulder contractions but they also permitted it to be used with other eye problems. The strange discovery they made quite by accident was that botox helps to reduce the visible lines between the eyebrows; after this in 2002 the FDA approved it’s use on the condition that it was a cosmetic procedure.

You see botox is a neuro toxin, meaning it paralyses the muscles it is injected into and makes them relax; after a number of treatments the lines start to lessen. If this procedure is continued, in many instances the lines will soften so much they will seem to disappear; now the same procedure is used on other areas of the face where lines form, generally with age. The injections actually contain a purified form of the Botulinum toxin; this same botulism can make us very ill but when use in cosmetic surgery it is a purified form the Botulinum toxin.

The reason people want to get botox injection is because every time you laugh, smile, frown, or for that matter do just about anything with your facial muscles, wrinkles are caused by the underlying contractions of these muscles. This treatment is able to take back, for a temporary period, all those years of lines, creases and wrinkles that has formed from the use of our facial muscles; many ‘skin age reduction cream’ manufacturers have tried to produce creams that reduce facial line but this is the only treatment that works, currently. The uses of botox paralyzes the facial muscles which means everyday expressions we use in communication and take for granted cannot be made; these treatments provide the user with a facial surface that is smooth and often referred to as looking like a dummy or mannequin.

People still have enough movement to look fairly normal but not enough to cause these wrinkles; so in fact by getting botox injections they help you to look younger. Whilst popular this cosmetic treatment is still very expensive for what it is; the average cost of just one injection in the United States ranges from a few hundred dollars to in excess of 1,000 dollars, depending on where the injection is used. As a recent form of cosmetic enhancement it may be some time before the full facts about long term botox use will be known but for now, most people really aren’t that concerned.

Many people are seeking a good plastic surgeon, but how can you go about finding cosmetic surgery help? Finding referrals from people you personally know and also trust is a good way to begin. The individual to talk with in your regional area will take in close friends and family who can lead you to a plastic surgeon. This is a ideal way to find cosmetic surgery help because it is direct from someone you actually know and also trust. They also directly know you and can tell if it’s a good match. Also, it’s actually possible that your referrer may have varying, conflicting needs than yours. Think of this when receiving advice on cosmetic surgery help from a  friend.

There exist still additional areas to look for a plastic surgeon in your city. Many people find good success in going through area women’s circulars, cosmetic magazines, wellness fliers and others. These are good because they are filled with local sources. Your ares newsletters and circulars may likely have specials on cosmetic surgery help in advertisements and the classifieds. This is not as ideal as getting a recommendation perhaps, but it can a good way to start.

The Internet is an apparent although also underused way to find a plastic surgeon. You may scour the Internet as many special area and city guides will have linkage to plastic surgeon websites.  Searching the Internet for “Botox”, “Collagen”, “plastic surgeon” or “cosmetic surgery help” will probably leave you with many options. Because longevity, beauty, anti aging are in demand, the Internet is a good area to also read reviews direct from those who have had excellent experiences with cosmetic surgery help in your area. With the Internet, make sure to use different search methods, since they also are likely give different results.

Also, cosmetic surgery help has various professional organizations associated with it. Look at professional groups like The American College of Surgeons, British Association of Plastic Surgeons, The International Association for Physicians in Aesthetic Medicine. Reputable organizations such as these have great standards and may be viewed as a seal of quality. This is really one of the ideal ways to find cosmetic surgery help if you do not get a actual referral.

Another good area of recommendations are additional related professionals. These include make up artists, general practitioners, hair removal specialists, naturopaths and others. They could know of other cosmetic surgery help options in your area. These people also have excellent professional thoughts that are valuable and useful, because of their background. Because their professionalism is involved, their recommendations are given often with much care.

With longevity, beauty, anti aging being so required, cosmetic surgery help is in large demand. And, saving money on cosmetic surgery help is straight forward if you realize where to look. A plastic surgeon will likely provide good discounts plus special prices. Again, deals may be presented in women’s circulars, cosmetic magazines, wellness fliers and the like. Searching through the newspaper again may be of help. Also, the Internet. Also, because of the large supply of cosmetic surgery help, prices on items like Botox, Collagen and Restylane are actually going down in many cities.

Keep in mind: true, saving money is a necessity, do not do this at the loss of a quality experience. This is another reason to get a good referral, in tandem with saving money. Because of the growth of cosmetic surgery help, you can find specials in any city. It is also likely to find a great buy on cosmetic surgery help while additionally getting good quality.

Soft tissue augmentation through various non-invasive treatments do not offer the results a facelift, brow lift or eye lift may. However, at a fraction of the cost of traditional surgeries, non-surgical treatments with injectable fillers will improve the skin’s appearance and may help delay the need for a surgical procedure such as a facelift. While not as invasive as surgery, treating the skin with injections is a medical procedure. Fillers are a good option for those who are physically healthy and don’t smoke.

The Consultation

The success and safety of your skin treatment procedure depends on your doctor and how honest you are with your doctor during the consultation. The doctor will ask you heath and lifestyle related questions. He or she will also ask about why you want the procedure, your expectations and desired outcome.

During the consult, you should also let the doctor know of any past treatments with injectable fillers you have had.

After examining, measuring and photographing your face, the plastic surgeon will also discuss with you the options available for facial rejuvenation. Make sure you understand all the risks, complications and likely outcomes of using injectable treatments.

During the Procedure

Once you have decided to have the procedure, the plastic surgeon will carefully evaluate your facial appearance and skin tone, and examine the areas of your face to be augmented with injectables. The doctor will then mark strategic points on your face, which will serve as a guide to the appropriate injection sites for the filler.

The sites will be cleansed with an antibacterial soap and a numbing agent may be offered to make more sensitive patients comfortable. Injection takes only a few minutes per treatment. Following injection, the doctor will remove any markings and will offer ice to reduce possible swelling or to reduce any temporary, minor discomfort.

Makeup may be carefully re-applied so long as care is taken not to apply pressure to the treatment area.

If you are filling in deep wrinkles or scars, you may require multiple injections at subsequent appointments.

The doctor can chose to inject the patient with a variety of different injectables. Few of them are mentioned below:

Collagen is a natural protein that is found to support the skin structure. It can be made from human dermis or cow tissue. Bovine collagen requires allergy testing before the injections. The collagen results last about 2 to 4 months.

Hyaluronic Acid is a natural substance found in the human body. It is usually used to plump thin lips, fill in wrinkles and facial creases such as nasolabial folds. The results generally last 6 months or maybe longer.

Hydroxylapatite is a mineral-like material found naturally in human bones. For the injection, it is suspended in a gel-like formula. It is the heaviest facial filler and is used primarily for deeper creases such as nasolabial folds, marionette lines, frown lines, and enhancing fullness of the cheeks.

Human fat, taken from your own body, can be reinjected into your face to enhance fullness, fill deep creases and to build up shallow contours. Fat injections are a more extensive procedure than other fillers because it uses liposuction to extract the fat prior to injection. Treatment results last up to a year and occasionally longer.

How does it work?

Botox is used to treat lines and creases by injecting small amounts into the facial muscles. Normally, chemicals released by nerve cells in the face cause the muscles to tighten, leading to frown lines. Botox blocks these chemical signals causing a slight weakening of the muscle contraction and a smoothing of the skin’s appearance. Contrary to popular belief, skillfully applied Botox does not paralyze the facial muscles completely, just relaxes and reduces their response.

What can Botox do for me?

Botox treatment can reduce the appearance of frown lines, forehead wrinkles and crows feet around the eyes. It can also be used to treat creases around the mouth. When performed properly it should have a gentle relaxing effect while still allowing natural expressions like smiling and frowning. Botox treatment will not reduce lines caused by sun damage and may not be fully effective on very deep creases.

Is it safe?

A course of Botox injections is a well established and recognized treatment that is considered to be safe when carried out by a qualified practitioner. There are, however, some groups of people who should not use Botox. These include pregnant and breastfeeding women and anyone suffering from a disease that affects the nerves or muscles. Certain medicines can react with Botox and you should consult your doctor if you are taking antibiotics or drugs to control heartbeat irregularities, Alzheimer’s disease or myasthenia gravis (a chronic autoimmune disorder). If you are known to be allergic to any of the ingredients in Botox or if the area to be treated is infected, you should not have the treatment.

What happens during treatment?

First the surgeon will discuss your medical history and assess which areas of your face to treat. A series of small injections will then be directed straight into the facial muscles using a fine needle. You will not need an anesthetic as the injections cause very little pain. The whole procedure should be completed within a matter of minutes.

How quickly will I recover?

As soon as the procedure is completed, you will be able to return to normal activities. Some patients report a slight headache but this should soon pass. Sometimes you will be advised not to lie down for 3 or 4 hours after the procedure as this can encourage the Botox to spread to other areas of the face. You should not rub the treated area for the same reason. Botox usually takes 3 to 7 days to take full effect, after which time visible improvement in facial lines should be noticeable. Your normal facial expressions should still be present. The beneficial effects of Botox usually last for 3 to 6 months.

Are there any side effects?

Side effects of Botox treatment are usually mild. Some patients experience a slight headache for the first 24 hours after injections to the forehead area, especially after their first treatment. Mild bruising of the injected area can also occur. In very rare cases, excess Botox can cause droopy eyelids, a condition known as ptosis. This is unlikely to occur when the treatment is carried out by an experienced cosmetic surgeon and will gradually correct itself as the Botox wears off. If you do experience drooping eyelids, you should tell your consultant.
Although very unlikely, a small percentage of patients may suffer an extreme adverse reaction to Botox. You should seek medical help immediately if you experience difficulty in swallowing and breathing or develop a rash.

What are the advantages of using Botox?

Since its initial introduction, Botox treatment has quickly gained in popularity and is consistently one of the most requested cosmetic procedures. It is a relatively safe treatment for most people with few documented reports of serious complications. The treatment is very simple and quick and almost painless. Because no general anesthetic is required, recovery time is rapid with little or no side effects. The results of the procedure are fully reversible over time as the muscle weakening effect of the Botox eventually wears off.

Individual Botox treatments are relatively cheap and, as the effects last for 3 or 4 months, do not have to be repeated too often. Some patients find that after several sessions, the time between treatments can be increased to about 6 months.

Where should I go to get Botox treatment?
Once you have decided to have Botox treatment it is important to choose the right cosmetic surgeon to perform the procedure. Botox has a proven track record for safety and good results but only when carried out by a reputable practitioner. Choose a fully qualified surgeon who has already carried out many Botox procedures. Look for a clinic where the surgeon is willing to carry out an initial consultation so that you have the chance to ask any questions and thoroughly discuss the implications of the treatment. A good cosmetic surgeon should always be happy to give you lots of information and may be able to show you photographs of past clients and the results of their treatment. It’s also a good idea to ask around your friends for personal recommendations.

What else is Botox used for?

Although Botox is most well known as a cosmetic procedure for the reduction of facial lines, it is also used in the treatment of several medical conditions. Botox can be used to reduce muscle spasms and twitching of the neck or eyelids. It has also proved successful in the treatment of excessively sweaty armpits by blocking the chemical transmitters that cause the sweating. Depending on the reasons for treatment, sometimes the cost of Botox injections can be covered by medical insurance.