Botulinum Toxin
Introduction
BTX (Botulinum toxin) has been a popular medication for over 20 years and has several different therapeutic uses. BTX-A has likely become popular worldwide because of its cosmetic use. While most patients understand that its use might improve and/or rejuvenate their physical appearance, its application extends to facial asymmetries resulting from paralysis sequelae. In patients living with these conditions, BTX treatment could help restore their self-esteem as well as their social and personal lives.
Procedure:
It takes 24–72 hours for the toxin to take effect. Rarely, it can take as long as 5 days for the full effects to show. They may last 4–6 months, depending on the treatment. To maintain the effect, you will need regular follow-up injections.
Indications
- Cosmetic uses for BTX-A in the face include the following
- Smooth wrinkles related to muscles
- Reduce the volume of muscles
- Smooth eyelid ptosis
- Improve definition of the jawline
- Lift the eyebrows
- Increase the eye opening
- Reduce the gummy smile
- Elevate the oral commissures
Contraindications
- DO NOT USE in patients:
- Who are pregnant or breastfeeding
- With any of the following conditions: myasthenia gravis, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, myopathies, Lambert-Eaton myasthenic syndrome
- Taking certain medications (aminoglycosides, calcium blockers)
- With infection in the treatment area
- With dermatoses in the treatment area (psoriasis, eczema)
- Allergic to any of the components of BTX-A or BTX-B (ie, BTX, human albumin, saline, lactose, sodium succinate)
- With herpes eruptions in the treatment area
- Whose livelihoods depend on intact facial movements and expressions (eg, actors, singers, musicians, other media personalities)
- Who are psychologically unstable or who have questionable motives and unrealistic expectations
Risks and side effects
People generally tolerate Botox injections well, and side effects are uncommon. However, depending on the reason for the injections and the person’s response, Botulinum toxin can cause some unwanted effects, including:
- dry eye, following cosmetic uses
- an upset stomach
- numbness
- mild pain, swelling, or bruising around the injection site
- a headache
- temporary eyelid drooping
- temporary unwanted weakness or paralysis in nearby muscles
- urinary problems after treatment for urinary incontinence
- a worsening of neuromuscular disorders
- spatial disorientation or double vision after treatment for strabismus
- corneal ulceration after treatment for blepharitis
- cardiovascular events, such as arrhythmia and myocardial infarction
If you have any questions please do not hesitate to contact us.
Office hours：Monday to Friday 08:00~12:00／13:30~17:30 (Not included vacation and holidays)
Tel：+886-2-2875-2121 EXT 1465
E-mail: International Medical Service center: imsc@vghtpe.gov.tw
Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery: ps@vghtpe.gov.tw
Website: https://wd.vghtpe.gov.tw/ps/Index.action
Estimated Cost
For estimated medical costs, please contact International Medical Services Center.