Lake Norman Oral & Facial Surgery • Dr. Raymond J. Haigney II • 9727 Northcross Center Ct. Huntersville, NC 28078 (704) 987-3132

9727 Northcross Center Ct. Huntersville, NC 28078 (704) 987-3132

What does Botox do to your body?

Wrinkles are both a nuisance and inevitable over time. Many people turn to Botox to eliminate or reduce the visible wrinkles on the face. Botox in huntersville north carolina is a neurotoxin, which may sounds intimidating, but it is quite safe when it is created and administered by a licensed professional.

Botox is a drug which is made from a neurotoxin that is produced by the bacterium Clostridium botulinum called botulinum toxin. Botulinum toxin is a successful and valuable therapeutic protein which can be used when the dosage, frequency of treatment and variety of treated clinical conditions are considered. When Botox is done wrong it can cause symptoms similar to botulism. This reaction can include symptoms such as muscle weakness, difficulty breathing, speaking or swallowing, issues with bladder control, and vision problems. While this type of reaction is unlikely, it does re-emphasize the importance of using a qualified professional for administering Botox.

Botox comes in a powder form. Doctors dilute it using saline which allows it to be injected. When a saline is used, it is also watered down, which removes any noxious capabilities. The chemical goes into action and blocks the nerve transmission in the applicable muscles, essentially freezing the area.

Once the injection moves from the dermis and into the muscle area. The nerves are then blocked by the Botox. As a result, while your brain may signal for your body to move a specific muscle, Botox keeps the muscle from firing and prevents it from moving. The injected muscle is no longer able to contract. This contraction causes the wrinkles to relax and soften. In addition, the treatment helps to prevent the formation of new wrinkles. The effect of Botox remains localized and does not spread to other areas of the body.

Botox stays only where it is injected and does not freely roam throughout the body. It can migrate up to 3 cm from the location where it is initially injected. In the rare case that some molecules go into the bloodstream and travel to remote sites in the body, the cosmetic doses are significantly lower than the toxic dose that can be harmful. Cosmetic doses are usually less than 100 units and toxic dose are about 2,500-3,000 units.

While the nerves are blocked, it does not block the feeling. There are two different types of nerves found in the body. One type is used to make motion, and the other type gives you feeling. Botox is only used to block the movement of the nerves and not the sensation or feeling. It is possible for the injection site to swell, get red or even be bruised. This is not common when you used a skilled and careful doctor to administer the Botox.

You can expect to return to normal daily activities immediately following the procedure. Do not be alarmed if you experience minimal swelling. Because the Botox is diluted with saline there may be a small bump which should go down within about an hour.

Because Botox has biological blocking powers, it can also be used to treat migraines, muscular disorders, and some and bowel disorders. It can treat stiff muscles, muscular spasms, an overactive bladder, or the loss of bladder control. In some cases, it is used to stop excessive sweating. Botox blocks the glands in the same way it blocks the nerves of muscles. Botox has been found to last much longer when used to treat excessive sweating as these glands are much smaller compared to the muscles.

More on BOTOX : BOTOX Frequently Asked Questions

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Patient Testimonial

"Words cannot express enough, how wonderful, caring and professional Dr. Haigney and his staff are! After being rushed to the Huntersville hospital with an orbital fracture, broken nose and other facial damage, Dr. Haigney rushed me into surgery (on his day off I must add) and corrected all my problems. I only wish all doctors cared as much about their patients and their recovery as Dr. Haigney and his staff did. Thank you so much for everything! Your attention and compassion has helped me make my recovery as comfortable as possible. 5 star service!"