ZPXFW Blog

Sydney Botulinum injections (Botox for short) is now a must in Sydney society in fact it is fast becoming an integral part of grooming for people in Sydney. Even so I am frequently surprised by the stories in connection with this simple treatment. I have listed below a few of the myths that I come across all the time in Star Cosmetic Medicine, where I am employed as a physician.

Error Number 1: My facial muscles may stiffen up!

The human face has approximately sixty muscles. The facial muscles usually work in harmony, but with time fine lines can form. If surplus Botox is used the muscles of expression may become too relaxed. Most doctors would use comparatively small doses to will result in you seeming refreshed, but still you will always maintain your facial expression.

Indeed a carefully calculated injection of Botox in the proper place means an expressive face is maintained whilst any wrinkles undergo a softening effect.

Error Number 2: Botulinum is poisonous!
This to some extent is true. Its scientific term is Botulinum Toxin Type A. An overdose may end up in a decrease in muscle tone or may even cause sickness.

Pharmacists have a well known saying that states ‘everything is poisonous - it all depends on the dose’. A large dosage of any medicine can result in sickness. Water can kill you if you drink too much.

Error Number 3: Botox injections hurt!
At Star Cosmetic Medicine the physician uses needles smaller than human hair. Several people liken the injections to a bug bite. Definitely not painful compared to having a vaccination.

Error Number 4: Botox will numb my face!
Untrue. Botox works principally on the junction between the nerve and the facial muscle, not the nerves of sensation. Botox only affects the relaxation of muscles.

Error Number 5. You have to keep having Botox or you may age faster than before!
Once More this is just untrue.

You can expect Botox to be effective for up to three months. Any injections after the initial visit should be effective for a few weeks longer. Gradually as muscle strength returns - the lines will reappear bit by bit. But they will not be any more pronounced than when you began your treatment.

In fact the wrinkles should be be less pronounced than if you hadn’t had Botox treatment - even if you never repeat the injections. Mainly due to the fact that you have allowed your skin to have a ‘wrinkle holiday’ when the Botox was active.