The Psychology of Cosmetic Medicine
Our treating doctor is not only a GMC registered Aesthetic Physician but also a fully qualified Psychiatrist and current member of the Royal College of Psychiatrists. Dr Azoo is therefore very aware of the clear relationship between aesthetic and psychological medicine.
Can Botox treat Depression & Anxiety?
Although Botox is used primarily for cosmetic purposes, its effect on anxiety and depression are not only due to changes in appearance.
The biofeedback loop between facial expressions and emotions
When people experience emotions, one of the first things that happens is a change in expression. The expression is caused by the emotion, but also becomes a reaction to it, “amplifying” the feeling. This includes negative feelings like sadness and anxiety. With Botox, it becomes possible to paralyze some facial muscles responsible for these expressions. This interferes with the “biofeedback loop” also referred to as “Facial Feedback” between the face and brain. Patients have reported that, following injections, negative emotions are weaker than before and pass more quickly.
For patients with hyperhidrosis, botulinum toxin treatment is associated with significant improvements in mental and physical health, according to a study published online in the Journal of Dermatology.
Veraguth's Fold
Can Botox treat social anxiety?
Social anxiety is a debilitating illness that often goes untreated. It is common for some sufferers to self-medicate with alcohol or other drugs to reduce fears at social events. If undiagnosed or untreated, social anxiety can lead to alcoholism, eating disorders or other kinds of substance abuse.
The same part of the brain involved in depression, the amygdala, is also involved in Social Anxiety Disorder, current studies are looking into the efficacy of Botox treatment on the reduction of social anxiety symptoms.
It is hoped that this common and debilitating disorder, social anxiety, will be helped by Botox treatment.