Various uses for BOTOX (tm) are popping up and catching on everywhere. It may be hard to tell if Botox is the right solution for your issue. One thing is for sure, having a skilled and highly trained professional administering your BOTOX can make all the difference in your results - no matter what treatment you are seeking. We spoke with a top doctor to find out more about some of these new uses and what to look out for when considering them.
Top plastic surgeon Dr. Peter Fodor, rated in the nation's top 1% by U.S. News, deals with usual and unusual uses for Botox beyond the normal. "There are uses that are cosmetic, and there are uses that are functional," explains Fodor. An example of a functional use is using Botox to help battle teeth grinding, also called Bruxism. A cosmetic example is the Nefertiti Neck Lift, where the chin is quickly lifted using multiple injections of Botox. It improves the loss of jawline definition that occurs during aging. Treating Bruxism actually provides a 2 for 1 benefit since while it reduces teeth grinding, it also relaxes the facial muscles that typically create an undesired rectangular facial look, thus providing an aesthetic benefit as well.
Nefertiti Neck Lift using BOTOX by Dr. Peter Fodor
It's important to understand that since Botox is a powerful neurotoxin you should work with a doctor who knows when it's right to use the product for these conditions, and how much to use.
One of the procedures emerging as a trend for Botox is using it as a treatment for Frey Syndrome. This rare disorder causes excessive sweating on the face while a person eats. Some doctors have argued that using Botox to treat Frey Syndrome means the possibility of the Botox affecting underlying muscles, which may lead to a partially paralyzed look. Dr. Fodor understands the risk and says that the key is going to a doctor who has the skill to treat more intricate conditions. "Frey Syndrome involves underlying nerves, and that's nothing to be taken lightly. There are very important nuances with this treatment which can be effective if you work with a doctor who is very familiar with this condition," said Fodor. He adds that he has seen successful results which last up to a year.
Fixing the condition called Gummy Smile is another condition for which Dr. Fodor and others are using Botox. It is possible to over-correct, which would cause an upper lip to become too low or to cause an uneven looking smile. It is critical to go to a physician who understands the underlying structure of the facial muscles. Dr. Fodor shares that an advanced knowledge of theses muscles and the facial anatomy, and the way they work together is required to create symmetry where uneven conditions may occur otherwise.
BOTOX for Treating Bruxism (teeth grinding)
Even more uses for Botox are also being found. Many physicians don't even know many of these newer uses.
Dr. Fodor does anticipate additional uses will start to become commonplace. Pulling from his own practice Fodor says "Bell's Palsy is another condition that I've helped a great deal with Botox." In the dysfunction of the cranial nerve which creates an inability to control facial muscles, Botox dramatically helps the appearance and can bring an even look and confidence back to the patient.
When exploring these uses of Botox as treatment options, be sure to consult with a highly experienced doctor.
