Dr Pragya Punj, Consultant, Dermatology and Cosmetology, Marengo Asia Hospitals, Gurugram, on what to know before you decide on a treatment
Recent reports of women in the US falling
ill across 11 states after receiving botox injections highlight the potential
dangers associated with improperly administered cosmetic procedures and the
contents of the shots they are taking. Which is why it is important to consider
botox with a dermatologist in a clinical setting, not in a salon.
Botox, a popular treatment for reducing wrinkles and fine lines by
paralysing the muscles and nerves with a neurotoxin called botulinum toxin, is
generally considered safe. This is only when it is administered by qualified
healthcare professionals in appropriate medical settings. However, when the
injections are performed by untrained individuals or in a non-medical
environment such as homes or spas, the risks of adverse reactions and
complications significantly increase.
WHEN CAN IT GO WRONG?
Botox can go wrong through
improper injection techniques. Its injections require precise placement in
specific facial muscles to achieve the desired cosmetic results. When
administered incorrectly, the botulinum toxin contained in Botox can spread
beyond the targeted area, leading to unintended muscle paralysis, drooping
eyelids, or asymmetrical facial expressions. Additionally, injecting Botox into
the wrong muscle groups can result in undesirable side effects such as
difficulty speaking, swallowing, or breathing.
Another risk factor for adverse outcomes with Botox is the use of
counterfeit or diluted products. In unregulated settings, individuals may purchase
Botox from unreliable sources or receive counterfeit products that contain
unknown ingredients or improper concentrations of the toxin. Using counterfeit
or diluted Botox increases the likelihood of ineffective treatment outcomes,
adverse reactions and serious complications. The percentage of the
concentration of botulinum toxin matters as higher levels could seriously
damage your health.
RISK FACTORS FOR INFECTION
Furthermore, inadequate
sterilisation procedures and poor hygiene practices in non-medical settings
pose significant risks of infection and other complications. Sterile medical
equipment and aseptic techniques are essential for preventing bacterial
contamination and reducing the risk of post-injection infections. In
non-clinical settings, you can be at a heightened risk of developing infections
at the injection site, including abscesses, cellulitis or even systemic
infections. You could even develop an allergic reaction.
Qualified healthcare professionals typically conduct thorough
medical evaluations and allergy assessment before administering botox
injections to identify any contraindications or potential risks for patients.
In contrast, unlicensed individuals or beauty salons may overlook important
medical history factors or fail to recognize signs of adverse reactions,
putting patients’ health and safety at risk. The obvious signs of a mishandled
procedure include blurry vision, drooping eyelids, difficulty swallowing,
breathing and muscle weakness.
On average, the effects of
botox are visible in a fortnight and may last about three to four months. A
second procedure may be recommended at that time. Eventually, however, your
muscles may train themselves to contract less. As a result, treatments can be
spaced out over longer periods of time. Your dermatologist will be the best
guide.
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