Botox was called botulin toxin type A. Somehow the brand name, Botox Cosmetic, sounded a lot less intimidating. Still, after doing some homework, it seemed like it was the right thing for me.
Younger, I never really looked a whole lot at myself in the mirror. Looking back, it was probably because of how insecure I was about myself, and I didn't like what I saw in the reflection. In any event, with time, that insecurity became a thing of the past. It was something I thought was part of an insecure childhood. However, with time, I grew out of that insecurity and really began to notice how I looked - especially my face.
It's not like we're born to look the same forever. However, with middle age coming on, I started noticing the lines. They weren't a big deal at first. There were just a few of them on the face. It was with time that they began to grow more numerous. It became harder to crack a smile without suddenly remembering them. Finally, it got to a point where it was difficult to just ignore.
Around that time, I was doing some research for an article and came across some stuff online about Botox. It wasn't like a revelation. It was more like suddenly realizing I could do something about it. Of course, it wasn't the cure all one would hope for. Repeat shots were necessary every few or several months. Then there was the whole issue about WHERE the Botox was injected. Frankly, it kind scared me at first. It wasn't until after talking to a few doctors, that I got used to the idea.
One of these doctors even mentioned how he held these events called "botox parties". It's where a bunch of people get together over drinks. One by one each gets their shots. After that, they come back to the party. It was cheaper, since the same vial was being administered to more than one person.
Needless to say, I didn't see that doctor again. Admittedly, it wasn't like people were sharing the same needle. But it just didn't sound ... hygenic. Plus, I couldn't grasp the concept of mixing alcohol with a medical procedure - cosmetic or not.
The other thing that surprised me was that, there was no special certification required for injecting Botox. That explained some of the crazy ads out there. In the end, I went with a reputable doctor at a reputable clinic. Honest people who gave honest answers. Anyway, I still go there for follow up Botox injections with a happy smile. |
