Botox cosmetic injections are used to address signs of aging. This treatment can smooth fine lines and wrinkles in several areas of your face, including your:

• Eyebrows.
• Forehead.
• Nose.
• Eyes (crow’s feet).
• Lips.
• Chin.
• Jawline.
• Neck.

Botox has been used for decades in the medical industry. These injections may be recommended for the treatment of:

• Crossed eyes (strabismus).
• Excessive muscle contractions (dystonia).
• Excessive sweating (hyperhidrosis).
• Eyelid twitching.
• Chronic migraines.
• Overactive bladder.
• Pediatric upper limb spasticity.
• Adult spasticity.
• Blepharospasm.
• Cervical dystonia.

Yes. Many healthcare providers recommend Botox for pain management. Botox blocks nerve signals that control muscle activity, resulting in relaxation and pain relief. Botox injections can be successful in treating:

• Back pain.
• Neck pain.
• Jaw pain.
• Nerve pain.
• Sciatica pain.
• Neuropathy (peripheral neuropathy).
• Pelvic pain.
• Chronic myofascial pain (CMP).
• Osteoarthritis.
• Joint pain.
• TMJ pain.

A bacterium called Clostridium botulinum makes the neurotoxins used in Botox. Healthcare providers use a specific type of the bacteria (type A) for medical injections.

Botulinum toxins occur naturally in soil and contaminated foods. If you consume large amounts of botulinum toxins or the bacteria get into a wound, you can develop botulism. This serious nervous system disorder affects breathing. For optimal safety and efficacy, Botox is produced in a lab. Technicians dilute and sterilize the botulinum toxins so they won’t cause botulism.

Botox is generally safe when administered by a licensed healthcare provider. Ask your medical team if Botox injections are right for you.

Cosmetically, Botox and dermal fillers offer similar results. Both help reduce the appearance of facial lines and wrinkles. While Botox is made from botulinum toxin, dermal fillers are made from other natural or synthetic materials, including collagen, hyaluronic acid or calcium hydroxylapatite. Botox injections temporarily paralyze muscles to reduce wrinkles, while dermal fillers add volume and help retain moisture. Your healthcare provider can discuss the pros and cons of each treatment and help you determine which option is best for you.