Everyone past a certain age is quite likely to experience this moment when, while practicing a new makeup trick or going about the day, they suddenly catch a glimpse of their reflection in the mirror, pause and then take a closer look, asking themselves: “Are those crow’s feet under my eyes?!” Botox
If you always appear angry and furious because of that prominent wrinkle between your brows, or if you’ve recently noticed frown lines on your forehead, perhaps you have wondered if something could be done about those lines. Well, you’ve got various options and Botox is one of them. When done well, the effects are long-lasting, satisfactory, and amazing.
Everybody loves Botox injections for reducing the appearance of wrinkles. If you want to see how it works its magic, contact us to get everything you need to know before choosing this treatment. Botox injections, when gone wrong, can result in uneven brows, dramatic unnatural results, and a frozen face.
What is Botox?
Botox is the most popular brand name for botulinum toxin, a muscle relaxant. It blocks neurotransmitter release, resulting in several months of muscular paralysis.
Botulinum toxin operates through interfering with the transmission of information between neurons and muscles, thus preventing muscles from contracting. Botox is a highly toxic substance, but it is commonly used in extremely small doses to minimize facial wrinkles for cosmetic purposes.
It also has a number of medical applications, including aiding in the treatment of excessive perspiration, teeth grinding, migraines, and those recuperating from Bell’s palsy.
What is Botox used for?
Botox injections can temporarily relax the facial muscles that cause wrinkles around the lips, brows and eyes. Injections are frequently requested in order to eliminate:
- Wrinkles between the eyebrows (frown lines or glabellar lines);
- Wrinkles around the eyes, called crow’s feet;
- Lines at the corners of the mouth;
- Horizontal wrinkles across the forehead;
- Skin on the chin that looks like “cobblestone.”
Furthermore, Botox injections are used to treat diseases that impair the way the body functions, such as:
- Cervical dystonia;
- Muscle contractures;
- Chronic migraine;
- Hyperhidrosis; and
- Eye twitching.
How long does Botox last?
Botox relaxes your muscles of facial expression, and its effects typically last between three and four months, during which time your body will gradually break down the toxin and you will need to repeat the injection.
Is there a down-time?
Botox injection does not require any down-time. The entire procedure takes around ten minutes, and there will be a few needle marks and red bumps. These will usually resolve in a few hours. You can resume your normal daily activities immediately after your appointment.
How long does it take for Botox to work?
It normally begins to work within a few days of the injection. However, the full effects may not be seen for up to 1 to 2 weeks.
Does make you look frozen?
Many assume that Botox injections result in an expressionless, immobile face. This is not true. After the treatment your face will appear smoother than it has over the past 5 to 10 years, and you can effortlessly wiggle your brows and make facial expressions.
What are the side effects of Botox?
When administered by a skilled physician, Botox injections are generally safe. The following are some of the possible side effects and complications:
- There may be discomfort, edema, or bruising at the injection site;
- Flu-like symptoms or a headache;
- Drooping eyelids or cocked brows;
- Drooling or a crooked smile; and
- Dryness of the eyes or excessive tearing.
Does Botox injection hurt?
Botox injections are relatively painless. This treatment is not intended to cause pain, so you won’t experience any discomfort. However, it is critical to keep in mind that patients who dislike needles may experience a little discomfort during injections.
How much does Botox cost?
The cost of Botox injections depends on various factors. The majority of providers charge by the unit. The number of units required varies significantly based on your face and desired aesthetic goal. For instance, a small area might require one to two units, while the ‘standard’ dosage for frown lines on the forehead is four units in five sites, totaling 20 units.
The cost also depends on:
- who administers the injections;
- whether the treatment is for medical or cosmetic purposes; and
- where the treatment is carried out.
Botox should be injected only under the supervision of a certified physician or a dermatologist. It is essential that the injections be administered correctly and at the right angle so as to prevent adverse reactions and unsatisfactory results. Botox injections could be hazardous if not administered correctly.
Feel free to contact us if you are looking for a certified physician with years of experience administering Botox injections. Our team of professionals can assist you in determining whether or not it is the best option for you.