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How Botox is Used

The recent approval by the Food and Drug Administration last week in the US for Botox to treat crow's feet illustrated how Botox is used aesthetically by cosmetic doctors. Up till now Botox was only approved in the US for the treatment of the glabella lines, known more commonly as the frown lines.

In the UK, although everyone calls the treatment Botox that is actually the brand name of one specific botulinum toxin product that is only licensed to be used in medical treatments and not aesthetic treatments. There are only a couple of botulinum toxin products that are approved in the UK for use in aesthetic treatments and then only officially for the use in the frown lines.

However, cosmetic doctors in both the UK and US have been using it for years around the eyes to treat the crow's feet. Furthermore, advanced aesthetic practitioners are constantly pushing the boundaries of how Botox is used in the face and body, such as treatment of a gummy smile, face thinning or even as a breast lift. This is known as using a drug 'off-licence' or 'off-label'.

Why you should see a Botox expert

Although the potential uses of Botox are very exciting, it is crucial that you see a fully experienced and qualified medical practitioner. Ask how many patients they have treated for this specific therapy. Ask to see their before and afters or ask to speak to previous patients if possible. Ask them to give you a thorough explanation of all possible side effects and complications before you decide to embark on treatment.

Some of these treatments should be viewed with extreme caution and a well-respected medical practitioner will only offer treatments that they have carefully checked and are assured of the safety.

Dr Tapan Patel has treated many hundreds of patients for anti-ageing concerns with Botox as well other treatments. His experience and skill has led to him recently being nominated as one of the UK's Top 30 Anti-Ageing Experts in the UK.

Learn more about the VIVA Clinic

Dr Tapan Patel is medical director of the VIVA Clinic in North London. At the clinic, Dr Tapan Patel and his team ensure that all treatments are carefully checked and assessed to ensure they are safe and that they deliver results.

As well as Botox, Dr Tapan Patel also offers a comprehensive range of non-surgical aesthetic treatments and you will often be offered a combination treatment plan to achieve the best outcome.

By Tapan Patel

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