After more than a decade of using Botox for cosmetic purposes we continue to find effective uses for the drug. According to a recent industry article Botox is no longer just a product for treating crows feet and the furrow between the brow. According to the ASAPS, Botox injections have been the most common non-surgical procedure performed by plastic surgeons since the year 2000. In 2010, more than 2.4 million individuals in the U.S. received Botox injections. Botox has other lesser-known benefits that are not purely cosmetic. These include the treatment of migraine headaches, as well as excessive sweating also known as hyperhidrosis. According to the article Botox is in the testing phase to see if it will be an effective treatment for asthma patients. Patients who suffer from migraine headaches may also benefit from a combination brow lift and Botox treatments. Dr. Kim explains to patients that there has been research that has shown the treatment effective for some patients. By tightening the muscle in the brow and using Botox to paralyze the muscles in the brow in some patients the migraines are less frequent and in other patients they disappear altogether. Dr. Kim cautions patients from expecting complete elimination of migraine headaches; although, in many patients this has been the case. Most patients do see an improvement however the amount of improvement can vary. Dr. Kim explains to patients that they should not have the expectation for the procedure to be covered under insurance. Patients must also remember that they will enjoy a cosmetic benefit even though the major reason may be to treat migraine headaches. As an ASPS plastic surgeon, Dr. Kim is well-qualified to not only help patients achieve the maximum medical benefit but also the best cosmetic results.
