What is Botox?

Botox is originally a medication used for therapeutic purposes, with the ability to paralyze or reduce muscles. Side effects of Botox occur when it is injected into muscles other than those that need paralysis. These can include drooping eyelids, facial distortion, and salivary gland paralysis leading to dry mouth. If a person has little cheek fat and receives Botox in the jaw, it can cause a hollowed appearance. When injecting into the neck to smooth neck wrinkles, improper injection in an area rich in blood vessels and nerves can lead to side effects such as difficulty swallowing or hoarseness.

Botox is a relatively simple procedure, and it is generally safe to use less than two vials (200U) per treatment and to have intervals of more than three months between procedures. However, to achieve more natural results, it should be administered by a doctor with a deep understanding of the muscles.