For many people, Botox injections are part of their lifestyle. This popular cosmetic procedure was carried out over 1.5 million times in 2017 alone.
The procedure gained popularity as a way of achieving fuller lips and getting rid of wrinkles. However, it’s also used to treat other medical issues.
One of the most controversial questions surrounding this cosmetic technique involves safety. Is Botox bad for you? Let’s go over some pros and cons so you can decide for yourself.
Primary Uses of Botox
There’s a reason why Botox injections are one of the common cosmetic procedures. It’s able to help reverse the signs of aging without the need for invasive measures.
As a cosmetic procedure, Botox lasts anywhere from three to 12 months. It’s used for eliminating crow’s feet and other wrinkles. Many people use it to reduce the appearance of creases on their foreheads.
Botox is now also used to treat medical issues such as:
- Migraines
- Excessive sweating
- Eye spasms
- Urinary incontinence
- Neurological muscle contractions
- Neck pain
If you suffer from one of the conditions, a doctor like Dr. P. Alexander Ataii, M.D., a BOTOX specialist, can advise you on whether the treatment is right for you. You’ll also need to understand the pros and cons associated with Botox.
Pros of Getting Botox
It’s important to understand that the pros of getting Botox depends on the reason for the procedure. However, there are some general advantages everybody can enjoy.
One of the biggest pros is that it’s a temporary treatment. If you decide you don’t like it after your first session, there’s nothing to worry about. The effects will go away.
Another benefit is there’s little to no recovery time. You won’t need to miss work and the injection only leaves a small mark or bruise.
As a cosmetic treatment, it’s very fast. You’ll notice results within a week. It’s also very convenient, which means you can easily have it done again if needed.
Finally, Botox is FDA-approved.
Cons You Need to Be Aware Of
Unfortunately, Botox injections aren’t risk-free. That’s why it’s so important to consult your doctor first.
The most concerning risk factor is an allergic reaction. Some people experience itching, inflammation, and trouble breathing.
A Botox injection can cause minor discomfort after the procedure. This usually involves a short-term headache.
A big con for many people is the cost. The injections can run anywhere from $250 to over $1,000, depending on the type of treatment.
If you’re getting an injection to reduce wrinkles around the eyes, you may have trouble squinting directly afterward. When administered to other areas of the face, Botox can make it difficult to form a natural facial expression.
Finally, Botox works by causing temporary paralysis. If administered to the wrong area, you’ll have to wait until it wears off, which can be frustrating.
Is Botox Bad for You? It’s Your Call
If done by a professional, a Botox injection doesn’t carry any serious risk factors. It’s also up to you to be upfront about preexisting medical issues before getting the procedure.
When asking yourself, “Is Botox bad for you,” make sure you consider the pros and cons discussed above.
We hope this article has been helpful. Please feel free to browse the rest of our site for more health-related content.