Since Botox was first approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in
2002, more than 11 million people have benefited from injections.1 From its bizarre origins to its use in unusual celebrity treatments, here are eight facts you might not know about Botox.
8 Facts You Might Not Know About Botox® from VirginiaSurgicalArts
You Can Thank Sausage for Botox
In the early 1880s, southern Germany experienced a spike in fatal food poisoning cases, most linked to spoiled sausages. Physician Justinus Kerner studied the effects of fat extracted from the sausages on animals, paving the way for research into how Botox could be used on the human body, as it is today.
Botox Is a “Miracle-Poison”
Much like penicillin is a species of mold that combats bacterial infections, Botox (botulinum toxin) is used to treat aging skin among other things. As one of the most poisonous biological substances known, it has earned the nickname “miracle-poison.” Luckily, proper knowledge about the human body and proper injection of the toxin does not present serious health concerns.2
It’s Used for More Than Wrinkles
The FDA has approved Botox for use treating many conditions such as lazy eye, eye twitching, overactive bladder and chronic migraines. Botox may also help those suffering from temporomandibular joint dysfunction (TMJ), cerebral palsy, depression, abnormal heartbeat or hyperhidrosis; however, these treatments have not been approved by the FDA.
It Was Almost Used as a Chemical Weapon
During World War II, the U.S. government wanted to use capsules filled with Botox as a chemical weapon against the Japanese. The plan was to arm women in China with the capsules, which they would slip into the drinks of Japanese officials. The plan was never made a reality.
Men Get Botox Too
In 2016 alone, more than 450,000 men received Botox injections. Many of these patients are white-collar professionals between 35 and 65 years old who get Botox around their eyebrows and eyes three to four times each year. Treatment for male patients has been unofficially dubbed “Brotox.”
Celebrities Don’t Only Use Botox for Wrinkles
Some celebrities use Botox to limit how high their upper lips can move above their teeth to prevent “gummy smiles” and even to treat foot pain from wearing high heels! It can also be used to mimic a nose job, lift lips and soften the jawline and chin.3
Botox Is Relatively Inexpensive
The cost of Botox varies significantly and largely depends on the size of the treatment area, the required dosage and your geographic location. With treatments starting at as low as $300, Botox is available to everyone!
Recapture Your Youth at Virginia Surgical Arts
If you are considering working with a Virginia Beach Botox Clinic, or getting treatment to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, consider meeting with Dr. Sergio Vendetti at Virginia Surgical Arts. Before diving directly into treatment, our team takes the time to assess your overall health, medical history and aesthetic goals as well as answer any questions you may have. Schedule your consultation today by calling (757) 430-7690.
1 http://classifieds.usatoday.com/blog/sports-recreation/7-fascinating-botox-facts-youre-dying-know/
Written By Virginia Surgical Arts
