Botulinum Toxin Type A (Botox ™)

Botox ™ is well known for improving cosmesis by treating wrinkles and lines in the upper face. Botox ™ is also used to treat functional problems in ophthalmology and other areas. Botox ™is one type of the injection.

Botox ™ works by irreversibly blocking the release of a neurotransmitter at the nerve to muscle junction, hence paralysing the muscle. The muscle activity recovers as new nerve to muscle junctions sprout. This normally takes 3 to 4 months. Hence, Botox ™ injections need to be repeated 2-3 times a year, although the time interval increases as more doses are given. Botox ™ has a large clinical dose range, and is thus very safe as the amount used e.g. for facial lines, is very small. The drug works locally and there is no significant systemic spread.

Improving Cosmesis

Botox ™ can help to reduce or eliminate dynamic wrinkles and lines which are caused by muscular action in the face. It is an excellent treatment for : Glabellar frown lines - These make people appear angry, afraid or worried. Crow's feet - These are maximal when laughing. Horizontal forehead lines - These can make a person appear worried.

Botox ™ is also useful for raising the brow, lifting the eyelid, reducing nasal scrunching and flare, and reducing upper lip wrinkles. It is also helpful where there is a pre-existing facial asymmetry and in conditions of excessive sweating (hyperhidrosis).

Click here for more information about using Botox ™ for cosmetic improvement.

Facial Palsy

In long standing facial palsy, muscles on the normal side overcontract and pull the face across to the good side causing difficulty in articulation, eating and drinking, as well as cosmetic embarrassment and psychological effects as patients lack confidence in public. Botox ™is very successful in improving symmetry of the face, especially with movement, and leads to improved speech, reduced symptoms, improved cosmesis, mood and confidence.

Botox ™ is also useful to treat aberrant regeneration, crocodile tears and corneal exposure

Click here for more information about using Botox ™ in facial palsy.

Other Uses Of Botox ™ In Oculoplastic Surgery

Thyroid Eye Disease

Blepharospasm / Hemi-Facial Spasm

Entropion

Click here for more information about using Botox ™ in oculoplastic surgery.

Click here for more information about the cost of Botox ™ treatment.