As an anti-aging treatment, Botox is commonly used to temporarily relax the muscles around the eyes and forehead, which causes wrinkles. Did you know that it can also be used for more than wrinkles? 

A botox injection blocks certain chemical signals from the nerves, mostly the signals that cause muscles to contract. A Botox injection can also treat conditions that interfere with the body’s functions, such as headaches, but there are also some uncommon uses for botox. Among them are:

1. Overactive bladder

The research found that 70% of women with an overactive bladder that were treated with Botox reported about three leaks a day, compared with an average of five leaks a day at the beginning of the study. However, Botox may cause the bladder to shut down so much that a catheter may be needed.

2. Cervical dystonia

Those with cervical dystonia exhibit slow, repetitive movements and abnormal postures, including tremors and muscle contractions. In cervical dystonia, a form of focal dystonia, the head is usually turned to one side or pulled back and forth due to pain throughout the neck. As this form of dystonia steadily progresses, it can negatively impact a person’s quality of life, and Botox treatments are a common treatment for sustaining relief.

3. Depression 

It is still not confirmed, but doctors think that facial expressions like smiling can impact a person’s mood.  Despite growing skepticism, early trials suggest Botox may be able to reduce depression symptoms. It’s based on a concept known as the “facial feedback hypothesis,” which suggests that a person’s facial expressions can influence their mood. 

4. Hyperhidrosis

A temporary blockage of the nerves that are responsible for sweating is achieved with botulinum toxin treatments (Botox, Myobloc, etc.). Your skin will be numbed or iced before the procedure. A number of injections will be required in each Hyperhidrosis affected area of your body. The effects last between six and twelve months, and then treatment needs to be repeated. In some cases, patients may experience temporary muscle weakness after this treatment.

5. Cervical Dystonia

To treat cervical dystonia, botulinum toxin (an example of this would be “Botox”) can be injected directly into the muscles of the neck. A majority of people with cervical dystonia see improvements after receiving these injections, which must be repeated every three to four months. In addition to botulinum toxin injections, your doctor might also recommend oral medications that relax muscles as a way to improve results.

It is important that you discuss your needs with your general practitioner, who will send you to a specialist. Surgical plans will be customized for each patient if they are candidates for surgery. At VIDA Wellness and Beauty, our board-certified surgeons can help you learn more about your options. 

Please note that this article does not provide medical advice. It is intended to provide general information only. It should not be used in place of professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. If you are seeking a diagnosis or treatment, please consult your primary physician or a specialist. A health emergency should be reported immediately to your doctor or 911 if you suspect you may be experiencing one.

Dr. Juan Carlos Fuentes

Dr. Juan Carlos Fuentes, MD Board-Certified Plastic Surgeon practicing at VIDA clinic Tijuana. Dr. Fuentes served as Chief of Residents in Plastic Surgery in Guadalajara. His postgraduate fellowship training was also completed at the University of California at Irvine and at Texas University. Specializes in Facial Rejuvenation, Rhinoplasty, Botox & Facial Fillers, Brow Lift, Blepharoplasty, Facial Enhancement and more. He is a member of the Mexican Association of Plastic, Aesthetic and Reconstructive Surgery (A.M.C.P.E.R.), American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery (A.S.A.P.S.), San Diego International Plastic Surgery Society, Tijuana Medical Association, International Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery (I.S.A.P.S.) and The Rhinoplasty Society.