BOTOX® has been used to enhance the appearance of over 7 million people in more than 70 countries worldwide, and is considered the gold standard of non-surgical facial rejuvenation. This incredibly popular injectable is made from a medically purified version of botulinum toxin type A and was cleared for anti-aging use in 2002. Dynamic lines and wrinkles form due to the repetitive expressions that come with everyday living, such as laughing, frowning, smiling, and squinting. Over time, these actions leave behind a trail of creases that age the face.
Common Cosmetic Issues Addressed
BOTOX can be used to target horizontal forehead creases, glabellar lines, crow’s feet, wrinkles on the upper neck, a boxy jaw, and a sagging brow. Its non-cosmetic uses include treating migraines, excessive sweating, TMJ, and muscle spasms.
What to Expect During the Procedure
BOTOX is performed on an outpatient basis using an ultra-fine needle that does not typically cause any pain. Anesthesia is not required, although patients may opt for a topical numbing agent if they so desire.
Recovery
BOTOX does not require anesthesia, incisions, or scarring, so there’s no traditional recovery. However, there are some physical restrictions to be aware of. Patients can expect to return to work or school right away after their sessions at our South Florida offices, but our practitioners will advise you to avoid strenuous activities for the first 24 hours and to remain in an upright position for at least 4 to 6 hours after injection. Take care not to rub, touch, massage, or disturb the treatment areas, as this can cause the BOTOX to migrate.
FAQ
Do BOTOX injections hurt?
Most patients report that receiving BOTOX injections is about as painful as getting a mosquito bite. Some hardly notice the needles have touched their skin. Anesthesia is not used for treatment, although patients can request a topical numbing solution prior to their sessions.
How long do results last?
BOTOX results usually last from 3 to 4 months, although each person will react differently to their injections and some may experience changes that last even longer. Patients will start seeing positive changes in their appearance within 3 to 5 days.
Can BOTOX be combined with other procedures?
Because BOTOX treats dynamic lines rather than static ones, it’s sometimes combined with dermal fillers to address not only wrinkles, but volume loss and poor definition in the facial contours as well. A “liquid facelift” can be performed in this way to achieve a refreshed and rejuvenated look without the need for invasive surgery.
What is a good age to start getting BOTOX?
There is no right or wrong age to undergo BOTOX injections. In general, overall health is the best indicator of who is eligible for a cosmetic treatment. What’s more, BOTOX can help prevent wrinkles from forming in the first place, so younger clients need not wait to start receiving its age-defying benefits.
What are the potential side effects of BOTOX?
Most complications with BOTOX occur because the injector was unqualified, lacked the proper credentials, or was poorly trained. At our practice, all our injectors undergo rigorous vetting and ongoing training to ensure your results are natural and nuanced and that you don’t experience any discomfort after your treatment. Possible side effects after BOTOX include droopy eyelids, nausea, mild flu symptoms, headache, and skin redness.
