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The History of Botox

The history of Botox and how it has become the number one aesthetic procedure worldwide is very interesting. Many people – and certain sections of the media like to promote this – think it is a poison and are apprehensive about its safety. It is true that it is a neurotoxin and it works by preventing the nerves communicating to the muscles.

The bacteria that produces botulinum toxin was discovered by accident as far back as the 1820s when there was a series of deaths by paralysis caused by bad sausages! In the 1950s, it started to be used in the treatment of crossed eyes and eye spasms and in 1990 a dermatologist called Dr Jean Carruthers discovered that in patients who'd been treated for muscle spasms also saw a dimunation in the crow's feet that surround the eye.

Since then, Botox has become incredibly popular in cosmetic clinics as an anti-wrinkle and an anti-ageing agent. Wrinkles are usually the first, and most unwelcome, sign of ageing and millions of people all over the world want to delay the appearance of wrinkles on their skin.Within just a few days of Botox being injected, there is a marked reduction in wrinkles and the effects last for approximately nine months.

The physiology of wrinkle appearance

Botox targets dynamic wrinkles. The muscles underlying the skin relax and contract continually and, as we age, dynamic wrinkles appear on the surface of the skin. These are mainly found on the upper third of the face, around the eyes and in between the brows and patients often visit Dr Tapan Patel complaining that they make them look old, tired and angry.

How the wrinkles are removed using Botox?

The muscles which cause the wrinkles are temporarily paralysed using Botox injections. A medically-qualified Botox expert or a muscle relaxing injection specialist are the only ones that are legally able to provide this anti-wrinkle treatment. A skilled cosmetologist will be able to provide the best treatment. You should definitely investigate further the VIVA clinic in London and its medical director Dr Tapan Patel before embarking on treatment. Dr Tapan Patel has the necessary skill and experience to give you the best result possible.

By Tapan Patel

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