The cosmetic side
Botox was first discovered to have cosmetic applications when patients at a particular clinic, who were using Botox for functional reasons, started telling the doctor they hated it when their injections wore off because their wrinkles came back.
Suddenly, the idea of using Botox for cosmetic reasons seemed a good one. That was in the early 90s and doctors have never looked back.
Dr. Popp has used Botox in his practiced for 33 years.
“It’s fun and it’s quick. For me, it often creates a potential dialogue for other procedures. We were the first to do it in this part of the country,” said Dr. Popp.
In fact, he was the ONLY one doing it in Nebraska from 1982-1989 and estimates he’s done over 10,000 injections. And he does about four Botox procedures a day.
The biggest area he uses Botox for is wrinkles. He explained it cannot be used everywhere and should not be used in the lower face because injections there can paralyze the muscles that allow you to smile and pucker, potentially making you look like you had a stroke.
Dr. Popp explained the good news is if you have any side effects, they WILL wear off. Botox only lasts about three months.
“Nothing with Botox would EVER be permanent,” he said.
The functional side
Many of us are familiar with the idea of using Botox to erase forehead wrinkles or temporarily perk up a smile, but did you know it has many functional applications as well?
Botox can be used in those who suffer from excessive sweating of the palms, feet and armpits. Injections of the neurotoxin into these areas block the nerves that are stimulating the sweat glands.
Dr. Popp explained Botox is sometimes used to treat muscle rigidity in kids with cerebral palsy. The injections help them relax the muscles that are contracted, allowing them to move their limbs more easily.
Functionally speaking, Dr. Popp said though he uses Botox to treat a few individuals with sweating issues, he primarily uses it to help those with facial twitching.
Want to know more about Botox? Set up your consultation with Dr. Popp at 402-391-4558.