Botox Improves Appearance of Facial Scars

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Facial scarring often has a profound effect on a patient's quality of life. Not only can facial scars interfere with proper functioning – especially around the eyes and mouth – it can also have a deep psychological impact, including depression and social withdrawal.

Recently, researchers at the Mayo Clinic have discovered that Botox helps improve the appearance of facial scarring. “This is of substantial interest in the field of scar treatment. We can now try and improve scars with [Botox] injections,” said Dr. David Sherris.

Facial Scarring and Botox Research

Researchers found that treating a facial wound with Botox early after its occurrence aids in the healing process. Because Botox paralyzes the muscles at the site of injection, it creates a smooth surface on which the wound can heal.

The same principle can be applied to older scars. If Botox is injected into the wound after an old scar is surgically removed, it will prevent the movement of underlying muscle and allow for a flat healing surface.

Botox Risks and Benefits

The end result in both instances is a smoother scar with little or no side effects. According to researchers, the greatest risk with Botox is temporary paralysis at the injection site. Other minimal side effects included bruising or headache.

However, patients in the study also experienced added benefits of the Botox treatment, including diminished appearance of wrinkles.

Researchers say that Botox will work for a wide range of traumas including dog bites, car accidents, skin cancer biopsy or removal, and more. While not yet approved by the FDA for scar treatment, Botox has numerous other uses and is available at cosmetic and plastic surgery offices nationwide.

Interested in Botox? Please contact us today to learn more.


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