Botox is a popular non-surgical,injectable treatment that eradicates lines and wrinkles. With more than 7 million treatments performed last year, Botox is one of the most popular cosmetic procedures in the world.
Are you considering a Botox treatment for the first time but have questions about what the treatment will be like?
HOW DOES BOTOX WORK?
Botox is a neuromodulador (form of botulinum toxin type A) that is injected into targeted treatment areas using an ultra-fine needle. It works by blocking the nerve signals needed for facial muscles to contract. It’s the repetitious contraction of facial muscles that causes expression lines and wrinkles. Once injected, the neuromodulator relaxes the muscles and decreases their movement to reduce the appearance of lines or wrinkles in the area. You will see your results gradually over 3-7 days following injection.
WHAT AREAS OF THE FACE CAN BE TREATED WITH BOTOX?
Botox can be used to address lines and wrinkles on a number of different facial areas, including the forehead, eye area (crow’s feet), and lip lines. It may be injected to soften dimpling of the chin. Botox can also be injected into the muscles of the jaw to help alleviate pain from teeth grinding or TMJ or for a jaw slimming effect. Some of these treatment areas may be considered off label.
WHAT DOES A BOTOX TREATMENT FEEL LIKE?
Botox treatments are quick with minimal discomfort. The treatment requires no anesthesia or recovery time. Many people get Botox during their lunch hours and are able to return to work right after their appointment.
IS BOTOX PAINFUL?
The procedure is not considered painful. Most patients report a brief period of discomfort during the injection, which does not persist once the procedure is complete.
HOW SOON WILL I SEE RESULTS?
While the experience of each patient may differ, it usually takes 3-5 days to see the effects of Botox. For some, it may take up to 2 weeks to realize the final effects.
HOW LONG DOES BOTOX LAST?
The results of Botox typically last between 4-6 months from the date of injection. Over time the body metabolizes the Botox, leading to the slow return of muscle movement in the treatment area.
WHEN SHOULD I START GETTING BOTOX?
Some patients may wonder if they are ‘too young’ or ‘too old’ to try Botox. There is no right or wrong age to start using Botox. Patients should be evaluated and receive a consult by a medical professional prior to treatment. Many millennials are starting to using Botox in their twenties when they first start to notice lines and wrinkles or as a preventative measure.
IS BOTOX SAFE?
Yes, Botox is an FDA approved treatment for reversing lines and wrinkles. However, patients who are pregnant, breastfeeding, or have certain neurological diseases should not receive Botox treatments.
SHOULD I DO ANYTHING TO PREPARE FOR THE TREATMENT?
A week before the treatment we advise patients to stop consuming alcohol or taking medications or supplements that thin the blood like aspirin, ibuprofen, Gingko Biloba, or Ginseng. This will help minimize bruising after the procedure.
ARE THERE SIDE EFFECTS?
Side effects from BOTOX treatment may include bruising, swelling, redness, or tenderness around the injection site, all of which will resolve without intervention after a few days to a week.