BOTOX and Bell’s Palsy

Thursday July 27, 2006 ins: Facial Cosmetic Surgery Tag(s):

Technorati Tags: facial cosmetic surgery, cosmetic surgery, botox

BOTOX has been around for over 20 years now, and its usage has been popular in the area of eliminating facial wrinkles.

Another interesting application of BOTOX in the medical field has something to do with a serious neurological problem that threatens the eyes. The problem we are talking about is Bell’s Palsy.

Bell’s Palsy, according to WebMD, is a paralysis or weakness of the muscles on one side of the face. Damage to the facial nerve that controls muscles on one side of the face causes that side of the face to droop. The nerve damage may also affect the sense of taste and how the body makes tears and saliva. This condition comes on suddenly, often overnight, and usually gets better on its own within a few weeks.

Now, where does BOTOX fit into the picture? WebMd Blog has the answer. This is where BOTOX comes in.

By injecting a tiny amount of BOTOX into the upper eyelid the muscle fibers that would ordinarily open the eyelids are paralyzed for 2-3 months. This temporary lid droop neutralizes the effects of the Bell's Palsy, leaving the eyelid closed and the eye fully protected without the need for multiple surgical procedures.

By 3 months most folks with a temporary Bell's Palsy recover good use of their Facial Nerve - about the same time the BOTOX wears off. Lid elevation and lid closure are both restored.

You may not look great when your eyes are closed for two to three months, but if that means saving your eyes in the process, then that would be a much better ordeal, don’t you think?

Pic Source: Web MD

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