There are many non-invasive options on the market right now that can decrease the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, and even scarring. One of the most common is Botox. And, I’m sure you have heard of it. You may even have tried it or get it regularly.
I know some of you are a little bit hesitant about Botox. Let me ease your mind and answer any of those lingering questions that are getting in the way of deciding whether or not Botox is the right treatment for you.
How Does Botox Work?
Botox is a neurotoxin that is injected into targeted treatment areas using an ultra-fine needle. It blocks nerve signals that are needed for facial muscles to contract.
Repetitious contraction of these facial muscles is what causes expression lines and wrinkles. So, Botox relaxes the muscles and decreases their movement to reduce the appearance of lines or wrinkles in the area.
What Areas of the Face Can You Treat with It?
The forehead, eye area (crow’s feet), lip lines, and the chin. Thus, we can inject it into the jaw muscles to help alleviate pain from teeth grinding or TMJ or for a jaw slimming effect.
Does Botox Prevent Wrinkles?
Yes, and more! Botox is a highly purified toxin that temporarily:
- Erases or reduces horizontal forehead lines
- Vertical frown lines
- Crow’s-feet
Thus, it can also lift the sagging corners of the mouth, smooth out that “pin cushion” look in your chin, soften smoker’s lines around the mouth, and soften vertical neck cords.
Will It Make My Face Look Weird? Startled or Frozen?
Not if you find an experienced doctor/practitioner who can accurately judge the size of your muscles and how much Botox you will need. Furthermore, with proper application, you will have a natural, pleasant look.
Does Botox Hurt?
It is applied through an injection which can be slightly painful, especially between the eyebrows. Topical anesthesia or ice can help numb the area before the injection. Just ask in advance.
How Long Will It Last?
Results usually last three and a half to four months. After that, wrinkles will start to form again.
Will It Make Me Feel Numb?
It will not affect the nerves in your face or make you feel numb.
Does Botox Have Side Effects?
Botox is a drug, and every drug has side effects. But its side effects are minor. For example, mild droopiness of the eyelid or eyebrow has happened in 1-5% of the cases. This side effect usually goes away within two weeks. Some patients may also experience slight bruising.
What Can I Expect the Day after My Botox Appointment?
Very little. Results begin to show in a couple of days and then increase over two weeks. Keep this in mind if you want the treatment to be at its best for a big event.
What’s the Ideal Age to Start Using Botox?
There is no ideal age— you can start whenever you like. However, keep in mind that you will need to keep getting treatments for the results to last.
Is Botox Safe?
Yes, Botox is FDA approved.
So who Shouldn’t Get Botox?
Patients who are pregnant, breastfeeding, or have certain neurological diseases should not receive Botox treatments.
Do I Need to Do Anything to Prepare for the Treatment?
One week before treatment, it is best to stop consuming alcohol or taking medications or supplements that thin the blood like aspirin, ibuprofen, Gingko Biloba, or Ginseng. Avoiding these will help minimize bruising after the procedure.
Will My Friends Know I Got Botox?
You may have heard- or seen- horror stories. But when administered by an experienced and skilled practitioner, the answer to this question is: Yes— but in the best way! As a result, your face will look fresher, more cheerful, and perhaps even younger.
Can I Go to Work after My Botox Treatment?
Botox is a quick treatment with little or no recovery time. Because of this, some people call it a “lunch-time” treatment. You can even wear make-up immediately, but you will want to put off any hard-core workouts or wearing a Helmut for a day or two.
Will the Results of the Botox Wear Off?
Yes. It is a temporary treatment that typically lasts between 3-4 months. Experts agree that once you stop having Botox treatments, the muscles will eventually regain their ability to contract, and the wrinkles will return.
What is Newtox?
Newtox by Evolus is the newest alternative available to Botox. It works by relaxing the muscles that cause wrinkles. Jeuveau Newtox is the first alternative to Botox available in the United States in nearly ten years.
Lingering Questions or Concerns?
I hope that this has answered all of your questions about Botox treatments. If you still have any questions, don’t hesitate to contact us. We will be happy to address any lingering questions or concerns.
Ready to Get Botox Treatments?
We regularly perform this service in our office. If you would like to schedule an appointment, contact us today! After you have made an appointment, we will get back to you with a confirmation and follow-up regarding preparations you need to make in advance of the treatment.
On the day of your visit, we will see you in our office, where we will discuss your needs and administer the appropriate treatment. We look forward to seeing you! It’s our pleasure and privilege to be able to support you in being the best you that you can be!