Medical Botox: then and now
Usually when one thinks of Botox, they envision a wrinkle-free forehead or a fabulous middle-aged woman sipping wine at lunch.
But the truth is—Botox has a long medicinal history and is used to treat far-from-glamorous conditions from excessive sweating to bladder control in people of all ages, including children.
The Discovery
Botox was developed in the 1970’s by a San Francisco Ophthalmologist, Dr. Alan B. Scott, who was searching for a way to correct strabismus (crossed eyes). Dr. Scott discovered that the benefits of Botox went beyond the eyes, and his research showed it was useful to treat medical conditions including bladder spasms, excessive sweating, and facial tics—among others. Children with cerebral palsy particularly benefited from the Botox boom.
Botox for Beauty
Botox for beauty was born by accident when Canadian Ophthalmologist Dr. Jean Carruthers noticed her medical Botox patients started to lose their frown lines. Once Dr. Carruther’s findings were published in the Journal of Dermatologic Surgery and Oncology in 1992, Botox sold fast —so quickly that in 1997, America’s supply of the injectable temporarily ran out, which caused a mild panic in Hollywood and among others who had grown reliant on it.
How is Botox used medically?
Due to its sudden surge in popularity, Botox is known more for its aesthetic appeal than its medicinal capabilities—for which it was developed. So, then, how is Botox used medically?
Acne scarring. Acne scarring can be reduced by injecting the area where the muscle contractions pull on the scar with Botox. Then, a filler may be used to fill the scar. Dr. Anna’s range of skincare is then advised for the day-to-day maintenance of healthy skin.
Excessive sweating. Most areas that experience excessive sweating can be treated with Botox including underarms, palms, soles, scalp and forehead. In some cases, sessions can be subsidized by health benefits as it is widely recognized as a medical treatment.
Headaches and facial tension. Some patients report a reduction in headaches and face pain after a routine Botox treatment for wrinkles—which is a very welcome side effect!
Contact Dr. Anna or book a complimentary consultation to discuss whether medical Botox is right for you.
To schedule a complimentary consultation or to book a treatment:
Please call 250.590.0883 or visit our online booking system.
Dr Anna Medical Aesthetics
#322 – 1964 Fort St, Victoria, BC. V8R 6R3
