Injecting Happiness

Main Category: Cosmetic Medicine / Plastic Surgery
Also Included In: Psychology / Psychiatry
Article Date: 03 Apr 2009 - 3:00 PDT

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Using Botox to reduce wrinkles has an uplifting side-effect. A study presented at the British Psychological Society Annual Conference in Brighton suggests that by preventing the face from frowning, Botulinum Toxin A may make people happier.

Twenty-five people took part in the study, carried out by Dr Michael Lewis from Cardiff University in conjunction with Court House Clinics, London. Twelve participants received injections of Botulinum Toxin A to the forehead and the others had fillers, peals or other cosmetic treatments. All 25 participants completed a mood questionnaire at least two weeks later.

The patients who had received Botox treatment to the forehead were found to be significantly less depressed, anxious and irritable than the other group. Dr Lewis said: "Both groups had had some form of cosmetic treatment, and there was no difference in how effective they thought their treatment had been, so this result is most likely due to the effects of botox specifically."

Botulinum Toxin A injections for frown lines paralyse the forehead muscles, preventing frowning. The finding that these people are also happier supports the theory that our expressions feed back and impact on our emotions. By preventing you from frowning; botox injections prevent the expression of negative emotions, resulting in a happier mood.

"This research may help the development of a new treatment for depressive illnesses. Unlike other treatments for depression, which have significant negative side effects, the main side effect of a Botox-based treatment would be a younger-looking face. But as the cosmetic effect of Botox is temporary, so will be the emotional effect. As the effect of the Botox wears off, one's mood is likely to return to normal levels," added Dr Lewis.

The British Psychological Society Annual Conference is taking place at the Holiday Inn, Brighton Seafront from 1- 3 April 2009.

Source
British Psychological Society