November 13, 2023

6 Surprising Uses For Botox

By: Astra Plastic Surgery

Botox, when skillfully injected, offers both cosmetic and medical benefits. By temporarily freezing facial muscles, it prevents the formation of age-related fine lines and wrinkles. The procedure itself is nearly painless and helps maintain a smooth and youthful appearance that can last up to six months.

How does Botox work?

The development of Botox dates back to the 1970s. Scientists first developed this injectable with the purpose of creating a substance that would weaken eye muscles in strabismus patients as an alternative to surgery. It was first introduced to the market in 1989 and has since become a popular aesthetic procedure. Today, over 4 million Americans receive Botox every year according to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons.

Botox® is considered one of the most popular nonsurgical cosmetic procedures. Beyond its wrinkle-reducing reputation, Botox has other surprising uses as well. Here are some other alternative uses for Botox:

Facial slimming

When the masseter muscles at the back of the jaw are overworked, they can grow and give the face a square shape. In the past, the most common way to slim the lower face was to make an appointment with a facial plastic surgeon and undergo a surgical fat removal procedure. Botox offers another alternative to achieve the same desired results.

Injectors can slim and contour the face by injecting Botox to the masseter muscles to help reduce their activity.

Nose lift

If you’re not looking for a drastic change, Botox offers a more subtle option to reshape your nose.

The injection of Botox into the depressor septi nasi muscles at the base of the nose causes the nose tip to rise slightly as the muscle relaxes. This gives the nose a more upturn look, creating a small dip in the nasal bridge.

Dimpled chin

The continuous contraction of chin muscles, referred to as the mentalis, can cause a wrinkled chin. To even out the appearance, Botox can smooth out that area, giving your chin a rejuvenated and flawless appearance.

Twitching eyelids

Ordinary eyelid twitches usually resolve naturally. However, uncontrolled and excessive eye twitching, known as blepharospasm, can become an issue. This condition arises when the brain’s control over eyelid muscles falters, sending an overload of signals. Botox provides a solution by blocking the nerve signals and bringing relief to the eyelid muscle spasms.

Excessive sweating

Hyperhidrosis is a condition in which sweat glands become overactive. This can result in profuse sweating, unrelated to exercise, weather, or usual stimuli. People with hyperhidrosis commonly experience excessive sweating in areas such as the palms, armpits, soles of the feet, chest, head, and face. While it may not be a significant health risk, it can lead to uncomfortable or embarrassing situations.

When it comes to relieving hyperhidrosis, there are multiple options to consider. There are medications on the market that can interfere with the electrical signals the body uses to activate sweat glands. Another alternative for patients is thoracic sympathectomy, an endoscopic surgery that involves severing nerves connected to sweat production. However, Botox stands out as a compelling choice for individuals looking for a nonsurgical alternative with minimal effects. It can help control hyperhidrosis by muting overactive sweat glands. Once injected into the targeted areas, patients can see noticeable results within three to four days.

Lip flip

If you are looking for an alternative to dermal fillers to achieve a fuller lip, Botox could be a great option. A “lip flip” is a non-invasive procedure, where Botox is injected into the corners of your mouth and the edges of your lips. This helps relax the muscles around your upper lip, creating an upward tilt that gives your lips a fuller, more pronounced look.

Schedule Your Botox Appointment with Astra Plastic Surgery

Our skilled injectors at Astra Plastic Surgery can help you achieve your aesthetic goals. Whether it’s Botox or other cosmetic procedures, our esteemed experts are here to provide the guidance you need. If you find yourself searching for “Botox near me”, visit our website to schedule an appointment online or by calling 678-990-3551.