Surprising Uses for Botulinum Toxin A
Botulinum Toxin A is a protein and neurotoxin produced by
the bacterium Clostridium botulinum. Botulium toxin can cause botulism, a
serious, life-threatening illness in humans and animals. More patients are open
to considering treatment with the toxin due to increased knowledge of benefits
of its use. Botulinum toxin has been used for many years for multiple medical
applications such as the following:
Cervical dystonia - abnormal head position, neck
pain & muscle spasms
Blepharospasm - abnormal eye spasms (eye
Strabismus - crossed eyes
Muscle stiffness in elbow, wrist and finger
muscles associated with upper limb spasticity
Urinary Incontinence - over-activity of the
bladder muscles due to a neurologic condition
Chronic Migraine Headaches
Vocal cord spams
Low Back Pain
Cerebral Palsy and Multiple Sclerosis
Media coverage has enhanced interest in Botulinum Toxin A
with surprising new uses creating hype. Patients frequently inquire about the
latest "Non-Surgical LIFT." Going beyond reducing the frown lines and crows
feet, Botox® Cosmetic and Dysport® (both Botulinum Toxin A) can be used to sculpt
the face. Injections can be can be used to lift the eyebrows, make the eyes
appear larger, turn up the nose, give a more narrow appearance and reduce
The lips can slightly be plumped while lip lines can be relaxed. The
"gummy smile" can be reduced if one has too much gum show. Targeting specific
muscles can turn up the corners of the lips creating a more pleasant smile.
Masculine jawlines can be narrowed which is popular in certain groups seeking a
more feminine look. The chin can be injected to reduce the dimpling and crease
while elongating the chin and creating a more aesthetic profile.
Patients are frequently complaining about their aging necks and décolleté.
A more-youthful neck with relaxed platismal bands and softer necklace lines and
décolleté wrinkles can result after Botulinum Toxin A injections.
Botulinum Toxin A has changed many of my patients' lives who
suffer from hyperhidrosis (excessive sweating). Temporarily relieving symptoms of
hyperhydrosis of the face, scalp, axilla, palms or soles of the feet can make
such a difference in one's self-esteem and productivity.
In addition to interrupting nerve signals by blocking
acetylcholine, Botulinum Toxin A affects the sebaceous glands. Those who suffer
from acne, oily skin and enlarged pores may benefit from these injections.
These "off label" advance uses of Botulinum Toxin A require
proper training and supervision. The
aesthetic doses required for these treatments range widely. Extreme caution is
necessary to minimize the risk of complications such as asymmetry or affecting
the patient's physical performance.