Botox: From its origins to current applications
Botox© (botulinum toxin type A) is a medication derived from the bacterium CLOSTRIDIUM BOTULINUM.
While this bacterium caused mass poisonings through food contamination, Botox© contains only the purified toxin – no live bacteria remain.
First used in 1973 for treating eyelid spasms and vision disorders, Botox© applications expanded to neurology (torticollis, writer’s cramp, childhood spasticity), gastroenterology (achalasia), and urology (bladder spasms). Its cosmetic use emerged in the late 1980s through observations by Drs. Jean and Alastair Carruthers. Today, millions of Botox© injections are performed worldwide. Alternatives include DYSPORT©, VISTABEL©, and AZZALURE©. Research also revealed Botox©’s effectiveness against excessive sweating.
1. Procedure and expected results
For underarm treatment: shave the night before and discontinue deodorant. A dye (Minor’s test) highlights active sweat glands to guide injections.
Multiple botulinum toxin injections (Botox©, DYSPORT©, VISTABEL©, AZZALURE©) are administered. Results begin appearing by day 2, peak around week 1, and last 6-9 months before requiring retreatment.
Certain medications may enhance Botox© effects: aminoglycoside antibiotics (Streptomycin©, Tobramycin©, Garamycin©), penicillamine, quinine, and calcium channel blockers (Calan©, Cardizem©, etc.). Your medical history will determine any contraindications.
2. Treatment efficacy
Scientific studies confirm 90% of patients experience significantly reduced sweating (often complete cessation) for 6-12 months, using minimal injected quantities.
3. Can treatments be repeated?
Yes, indefinitely without health risks. Typically repeated every 6-9 months for hyperhidrosis.
4. Treatment areas
Primarily underarms (virtually painless). Hands/feet treatments (more painful) typically require neurologist-administered anesthesia.
5. Is it painful?
Underarm injections are nearly painless. Topical anesthetic cream (EMLA©) can be applied if preferred.
6. Should I remove underarm hair?
Yes – odor-causing bacteria thrive on hair. Laser hair removal may provide additional benefits.
7. What is iontophoresis?
A 20-minute treatment 2-3x weekly where hands soak in electrified saltwater baths (available at hospitals or home), causing mild tingling. Helps control sweating.
8. How does the toxin work?
Locally blocks cholinergic nerves that stimulate sweat glands, reducing secretion to normal levels without affecting other functions.
9. Side effects and safety
Effects are temporary and localized. Minor bruising may occur (avoid aspirin© beforehand). Rare temporary sensitivity at injection sites. No systemic effects at used dosages.
Contraindications
Pregnancy, breastfeeding, and certain neuromuscular disorders (e.g., Lambert-Eaton syndrome).
Facial rejuvenation with botulinum toxin (Botox©, Vistabel©, Dysport© etc.)
Wrinkles often appear suddenly – or at least we notice them suddenly! Modern treatments can effectively smooth these concerns.
The Botox solution
Type A botulinum toxin (Botox©, Vistabel©, Dysport© etc.) blocks overactive muscles, particularly effective for:
- Forehead horizontal lines
- Glabellar “frown lines” between eyebrows
- Crow’s feet at eye corners
Small doses injected into facial muscles relax contractions, smoothing wrinkles while maintaining natural expression.
PHOTOS
While treatment result photos are widely available online, their display is now prohibited by Belgian medical regulations. During consultation, we’ll provide personalized visual references to evaluate potential outcomes.
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