Anti-ageing procedure finally comes to Botswana

Dr Tau Dental Spa has introduced the Botox treatment, an injection anti-ageing procedure which enhances beauty and helps people stay young. The treatment, which was for many years exclusive only to the rich and famous, became accessible to ordinary folks with at least 1.6 million having received it in 2001 and the numbers have kept growing ever since. The global market for Botox is forecast to reach $3 billion by 2018. Dr Tau Dental Spa is the first practice to get accreditation and recognition to administer Botox in Botswana from the Ministry of Health.

 
“We have finally brought Botox to Botswana. Botox treatment is a smart choice for people who want to enhance their appearance without having intensive plastic surgery procedures performed. Botox injections are non-surgical treatments and they are effective for preventing and reducing wrinkles on the face. Furthermore, this cosmetic treatment has been approved by the Food and Drugs Administration as a safe procedure,” expressed Dr Badiredi Tau at the launch of the Botox Procedure at his Dental Spa.

 
Dr Tau explained that Botox is a trade name for the neuromodulator protein called botulinum Toxin A, produced by the bacterium clostridium botulinum, a completely harmless product. “The treatment involves the injection of Botox into specific muscles with a needle, which relaxes the contraction response of the muscles by blocking certain nerve impulses temporarily,” he said, adding that because the treatment is new to the local market, uptake has been slow. Dr Tau said he personally believed in the treatment. “Having performed the treatment to various clients to date, it is pleasing to say that my clients are happy with the results they have seen thus far,” he said.

 
Botox, like any drug in Botswana is regulated by the Drug Regulation Unit (DRU) of the Ministry of Health. The DRU Botox permit is issued on a case by case basis. Every time there is a client, an application is made to the DRU. The application states the patient’s name, diagnosis accompanied by a motivation letter for the specific client. Results are usually seen in about 4 days with maximum effects visible in 14 days, and last up to 4-6 months.
“Wrinkles on the face form as muscles contract from a lifetime of facial expressions. Botox will inhibit the contraction of the facial muscles thereby creating a more relaxed appearance. This will reduce visible facial wrinkling which in turn gives a youthful look. It is an excellent first step in facial rejuvenation and its use can delay the need for facial cosmetic surgery, and make you look better for that special occasion,” expressed Dr Tau.