The researchers at the Mayo Clinic have found that treating a facial wound with botulinum toxin (Botox) early on decreases the appearance of the scars later.

Injection with botulinum toxin paralyzes the facial region, which creates an even, smooth surface within which the wound can heal. The study examined the effects of injection on the formation of bad scars, such as those resulting from a motor vehicle accident, dog bite, or skin cancer biopsy and removal. The toxin keeps the underlying muscles from moving, which prevents wrinkling at the wound site. This reduces the bumpiness and unevenness common to facial scars.

As you may have noticed, [tag-ice]scars[/tag-ice] can interfere with normal functioning- if you have a scar on your elbow, for instance, it can decrease your range of extension or flexion. If you have a scar on your eyebrow, it may prevent your eye from opening and closing properly. A scar at the corner of your mouth may prevent your mouth from closing when you chew, which can lead to food and liquid spillage while you eat- which can make mealtimes embarrassing and uncomfortable.

Aside from the functional aspects, [tag-tec]scars[/tag-tec] also leave a deeply negative psychological impression. It is common for people with significant facial scarring to feel depressed and avoid social interaction.

The injections are not yet approved by the Food and Drug Administration. The next set of clinical trials will involve a large scale study involving hundreds of patients, multiple wound types, and research into whether botulinim toxin may be useful for [tag-self]scars[/tag-self] on other parts of the body.

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