Is Botox Really Safe? A Review of the Research

Botox Really Safe

Have you considered a non-invasive Botox procedure as a way to alleviate wrinkles and look younger? Botox is one of the fastest-growing non-invasive cosmetic procedures, and yet, there are many people sitting on the sidelines because they feel unsure about the overall safety of Botox. This post covers some of the latest research on Botox to show that researchers have repeatedly found that Botox for cosmetic use is safe.

The Basics

Botox cosmetic injection treatments have helped many patients look years younger, often in just one appointment. Unlike more complicated surgical procedures, wrinkle reduction with Botox cosmetic injections can be done as an outpatient procedure in most plastic surgery offices. You can receive this simple and effective treatment in just one visit and should begin to see the results in a few days.

Following a treatment session, you will be able to enjoy smooth, younger looking skin for up to four months. Botox cosmetic injection treatments may be ideal for patients who are not quite ready for face lift surgery or blepharoplasty, but who still desire a more youthful and refreshed appearance.

What the Research Says

Botox has a remarkably safe history. Only 36 serious adverse effects associated with cosmetic use were reported to the FDA between 1989 and 2003, according to a 2005 study. And, 13 of those 36 patients had underlying medical conditions that may explain their adverse response to the drug.

One recent study in the Journal of the American Medical Association: Dermatology found that the risks of Botox are even lower than doctors had previously assumed. The largest study of its kind, it looked at data from 20,399 cases. Even minor side effects such as bruising, lumpiness or skin discoloration, were found to occur in less than 1 percent of cases.

“We strongly suspected the rates were going to be low, but we were pleasantly surprised that they were as low as they were,” said study lead author Dr. Murad Alam, a dermatologist at Northwestern University in Illinois.

So, when you’re considering Botox as a nonsurgical wrinkle-eliminating procedure, let the science prevail. And the science shows that the procedure is perfectly safe.

To set up a consultation, or directly book your appointment for Botox, contact St. Charles Plastic Surgery today.

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