Botox injection is one of the most popular common beauty procedures, wherein the majority of clinics and beauty salons in Hong Kong charge customers between HK$3,000 and HK$10,000 per treatment. This particular procedure is said to battle wrinkles and crow's feet, attempting to restore a youthful complexion. However, Botox injection also has its downsides, so it's important to be aware of the health risks, side effects, and what are the things you need to know before getting the procedure.
Botox (Botulinum toxin) was considered to be the most lethal substance known to man. There are seven categories of Botulinum toxins, but only two were approved for human application - type A and type B. Researchers estimated that even one gram of crystalline Botulinum toxin could already kill over one million people.
Botox injections were usually used to reduce wrinkles and fine lines on the forehead, around the eyes and between the brows. The procedure can also be used in other medical purposes, including overactive bladders or treatment of severe underarm sweating, as per the South China Morning Post.
Health Risks
The Department of Health said those who are getting Botox injection might experience difficulty in chewing, swallowing, speaking or breathing. These problems likely occur in hours, days, weeks, after the procedure. Also, the US Food and Drug Administration released a safety warning in 2009, noting the toxin may spread from the area of injection to produce symptoms of botulinum toxin effect, like blurred vision or dropping of eyelids.
Dr. Ho Chiu-ming, a specialist in plastic surgery, said additional problems might occur, including bruising or bleeding, if the toxin was wrongly injected to blood vessels or nerve. And although it helps to reduce wrinkles, it can potentially limit a person's facial expressions. Hollywood actress Nicole Kidman, in particular, revealed she had tried the procedure in 2011, which left her unable to form any expressions.
Side Effects
In 2016, Hong Kong reported its first ever case of botulism - a rare and serious illness caused by Botulinum toxin - and a total of 13 cases were recorded on that same year. There were three cases recorded in 2017, while at least three this 2018. In the majority of those cases, people were said to develop generalized weakness, difficulty in swallowing, shortness of breath, after getting Botox on either mainland China or Hong Kong.
One of the several side effects of Botox injection is temporary paralysis of facial muscles, and a report in 2006 claimed it was at least associated to 16 deaths.
What You Need To Know Before Getting Botox Injection
In Hong Kong, the beauty procedure should only be performed by a locally registered doctor. Aside from plastic surgeons, Botox injection can also be performed by specialists in dermatology and general practitioners. Dr. Ho warned there would be concerns regarding sanitation as well as the quality of the toxin being used if the procedure was not performed by a medical practitioner. Health authorities also said people who want to get Botox injection should understand the procedure first, know the potential health risks, and side effects.
