Frequently asked Botox-related Q&A

You are probably aware of the benefits of Botox injections to soften and sometimes eliminate facial wrinkles. However, while Botox is quite popular as an anti-ageing treatment, most potential patients have questions that they need to be answered about Botox. While consulting with your plastic surgeon is a must before opting for Botox treatment, there are certain answers to questions that you may want to know before the consultation. In this article, we’ll explore the most frequently asked questions and answers related to Botox injections. Q1) What is Botox? A1): Botox is a purified protein, called botulinum toxin that has been used in medical science for over 15 years, since its invention in 2002. It was approved by the FDA for cosmetic applications. Botox is injected into specific, superficial facial muscles to soften wrinkles. Q2) How does Botox work? A2) Botox works by relaxing the facial muscles for a period of 3 to 4 months. Botox treatments only take a few minutes and results usually begin to be visible within 7 to 10 days. Numbing creams can be used to eliminate or minimize treatment discomfort based on patient preference. Q3) Will the Botox injections hurt? A3) Botox injections are very small, so discomfort is minimal. However, different people react differently to the injections. Q4) Is Botox right for me? A4) If you want to eliminate wrinkles for an extended period of time, whether treating existing ones or preventing new ones, Botox can be your secret weapon. Botox injections are mainly used to treat forehead creases, frown lines, and crow’s feet, but is also used in other areas, such as the lips, the lower face, the neck, and even downturned smiles. Q5) Does Botox cause headaches? A5) Some patients experience headaches after treatments but most do not. However, these headaches are very mild and will disappear after 1 to 2 days. You can treat these headaches with a regular analgesic such as Ibuprofen. In fact, Botox is also used to treat headaches, so the symptoms will be very mild in nature. However, if you tend to suffer from post-Botox headaches, do consult with your plastic surgeon. Q6) Will I end up with droopy eyelids following Botox treatment? A6) Temporary drooping of the eyelids, called transient ptosis, is a rare and temporary side effect. Q7) How should I prepare for Botox? A7) You should go over the details of the treatment with your surgeon. Ensure that you know how many units will be injected, as well as the cost per unit. You may also be asked to sign a consent form and should read it carefully and discuss any questions you have with your doctor. Q8) Do I have to avoid drinking alcohol the night before treatment? A8) While there are no studies that indicate that you shouldn’t drink alcohol the night before treatment, most doctors advise that you avoid alcohol immediately before and after the injections. This is because it can cause increased fluid retention, resulting in more bruising. However, most people who drink alcohol before and after treatment, suffer from no bruising whatsoever. Q9) Will there be any swelling? A9) Botox treatments cause minimal or no swelling. Immediately after treatment, there may be a little redness, which subsides within minutes. Also, if Botox injections are given around the eye area, there may be a little bruising, which will disappear quickly. Q10) What happens on the day of Botox? A10) The day of your Botox treatment won’t be very different from any other day or visit your doctor. Your doctor will make a series of Botox injections in the target areas and then you’re done within a few minutes! Q11) Can I resume normal activities after treatment? A11) Immediately following treatment, it is advisable not to rub the area, and also to avoid activities that cause sweating on the face for at least 3 hours. You should consult with your doctor if you have any questions regarding resuming specific activities immediately, post Botox treatment. Q12) What is the recovery time? A12) You should be able to resume normal activity immediately after your Botox injections. However, doctors recommend that you do not lie down for at least four hours following injections to prevent the migration of Botox to unintended areas of your face. Also, you should avoid all strenuous activity for at least a few hours and up to a day. Do not get a facial massage for about 48 hours after your injection. Q13) What results can I expect from Botox? A13) While the procedure can reduce wrinkles and lines on your face, giving it a younger look, it isn’t necessarily the fountain of youth. The results last for about three to four months before wearing off. Most people see results within four to five days, but it could take a couple of weeks for the full results to show. Deep wrinkles should show improvement shortly after treatment and may continually improve over time. Q14) What are the possible side effects or risks? A14) If injected properly, the side effects of Botox are relatively minor. Some patients experience minor bruising and redness immediately after the injection. These will typically last for only a couple of hours. You should discuss any concerns you may have about the procedure with your plastic surgeon. Q15) Can I get Botox treatment if I am pregnant or breastfeeding? A15): Doctors generally do not suggest Botox injections if you are pregnant or breastfeeding. This is because the effects of Botox on the baby are not known. These are just a preliminary list of questions and answers related to Botox treatment. They are not meant to replace the detailed consultation you should have with your plastic surgeon prior to the procedure. At the Aesthetic Surgery Centre & MedSpa, we offer Botox injections as a facial rejuvenation procedure. Our award-winning plastic surgeons and medical spa team are committed, caring and very skilled, and will be delighted to answer any additional questions you may have about Botox injections and the procedure. So, if you’re thinking of getting Botox injections, consider visiting the Aesthetic Surgery Centre and you’ll walk away knowing that you’ve got the best care imaginable. For more information about Botox injections, fillers, and other plastic surgery procedures, contact us at 254-627-2900 or toll-free at 888-717-7288 , or go to our website at www.AestheticCentre.org.