Botox is most commonly known as a cosmetic injectable that smoothes facial wrinkles and furrows. It is the most popular minimally invasive procedure performed in the United States — according to data from the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, 6.3 million Botox procedures were performed last year. What’s more: Botox treatments have increased by an astounding 700 percent since the year 2000.
Did you know that Botox can be used for other cosmetic and medical reasons? Let’s look at a few:
Other FDA-Approved Uses
The FDA has approved Botox to treat excessive sweating, a condition known as hyperhidrosis. Botox can be injected into overactive sweat glands in the underarms and hands to control sweating. It works by blocking the release of a chemical that stimulates the sweat glands.
Botox is also FDA-approved to ease the painful, debilitating symptoms of migraine headaches. Physicians can inject Botox into the forehead (or the neck/shoulders) to relieve the pain and tension of migraine headaches. Botox reduces muscle tension and puts less stress on the nervous system.
Lesser-Known Uses
You might be surprised to learn that the original purpose of Botox wasn’t to treat wrinkles; rather, it was to treat crossed eyes and uncontrollable blinking. Botox is still currently used to that end by some physicians.
Another FDA-approved, yet lesser-known use of Botox is to treat overactive bladders. Botox can be injected into the bladder muscles to block the muscles and nerves that cause the need to urgently or frequently urinate. It can help prevent leaking and wetting accidents, too.
Botox is increasingly being used to treat TMJ, or temporomandibular joint disorder, which causes pain in the jaw and chewing muscles. Physicians will inject Botox directly into the chewing muscles to relax them and ease pain.
People who are bothered by an extremely “gummy” smile — a smile that reveals too much of the gums — can also consider Botox. A gummy smile usually occurs because the upper lip rises too far above the upper row of teeth while smiling. Injecting Botox into the upper lip weakens the muscles to prevent contraction of the lip, so less of the gums will show.
Schedule an Appointment for Botox Treatment
If you are interested in Botox treatment for lines and wrinkles, call Michaels Aesthetic and Reconstructive Plastic Surgery by calling (301) 468-5991 or (703) 957-8610.
