Botulinum Toxin Treatment

While vision is of paramount concern, for many people the appearance of the eyes is also important. Frowning, concentration, or squinting against the sun leads to constant stress and strain on the facial muscles. Over a period of time wrinkles and lines appear on the face, making one look older and tired.

Sometimes the eyelids and their surrounding area can also create problems. The most common complaint is involuntary contraction of the facial muscles, either on one side of the face (Hemifacial Spasm) or both the eyelids (Blepharospasm). This can lead to functional and social problems. While surgery can reduce these contractions, it has its own limitations and complications.

Botulinum toxin is a boon for all such patients. It is a highly purified protein, extracted from bacteria in the same way that penicillin is extracted from a mould. When injected into the muscle through tiny injections, Botulinum toxin relaxes the muscle. The results are dramatic and are apparent within days, and the effects can last up to four months. The toxin relaxes the wrinkle-causing muscles, giving patients a rejuvenated and youthful appearance.

This is a leading cosmetic procedure in the West, but is relatively new in India. L V Prasad Eye Institute is the first ophthalmic centre in the country to have a Botulinum Toxin Clinic for all applications in ophthalmology and facial cosmetology.