The Skin Source is your source for information on the body's largest and most conspicuous organ… your skin!!! Dr. A. Geronimo Jones, who has recently completed his training as a dermatologist at St. John's Institute of Dermatology, London, is here regularly to answer your questions and provide information that will enhance your Skin, Beauty and General Health. This week Dr. Geronimo Jones talks about the use of Botox to temporarily remove wrinkles.
Botox is a protein produced by the bacteria Clostridium botulinum toxin, type A. It is a non-surgical treatment that can temporarily reduce moderate to severe wrinkles around the eyes and forehead. During treatment, very low doses of Botox are injected directly into the muscles that cause wrinkles. Wrinkles form over time as the result of muscle activity. Botox is injected directly into the muscles. It works by blocking the transmission of nerve impulses to the injected muscles, thus reducing the activity of the muscles that cause wrinkles. When Botox is injected into the muscles surrounding wrinkles, they are paralyzed. Any wrinkles in that area temporarily go away. Discomfort is minimal and the treatment is usually done in about 10 minutes. No recovery time is needed.
Within days, you may see a marked improvement in wrinkles. Lines continue to improve for up to a month, and results can last for up to 4 months. However, results do vary.
Possible Side Effects, although rare, include:
— Temporary eyelid droop
— Headache
— Bruising/soreness at injection site
— Nausea
Botox should only be administered by physicians and is available only by prescription. A Botox injection is a medical procedure that should be performed in a controlled medical environment.
Editor's note: Dr. A. Geronimo Jones is a graduate of Morehouse College, Atlanta, Ga. With family roots in Montserrat and the U.S.Virgin Islands, he received his medical degree from the University of the West Indies School of Medicine. Jones has recently completed his training as a dermatologist at St. John's Institute of Dermatology, London. He plans to practice general and cosmetic dermatology at Eureka Medical Center, Tortola, British Virgin Islands. Dr. Jones is happy to answer any question from readers. If you have a question, simply e-mail it to source@viaccess.net.
Editor's note: Dr. Jones is presently seeing patients at Eureka Medical Clinic, on Tortola, BVI.
