Botox
What Is Botox?
Botox is a drug doctors have been using for years to treat wrinkles and facial creases. Botox is a brand name of a toxin made by the bacterium Clostridium botulinum.
How Does Botox Work?
Botox blocks signals from the nerves to the muscles. The injected muscle can’t contract. That makes wrinkles relax and soften. Botox is most often used on forehead lines, crow’s feet (lines around the eye), and frown lines. Botox won’t help with wrinkles caused by sun damage or gravity.
How Is a Botox Procedure Done?
Getting Botox takes only a few minutes. You won’t need anesthesia. The provider uses a small needle to inject Botox into specific muscles with only minor discomfort.
It generally takes 7 to 14 days to take full effect. It’s best to avoid alcohol starting at least 1 week before the procedure. You should also stop taking aspirin and anti-inflammatory medications 2 weeks before treatment to help prevent bruising.
Botox FAQ
When administered by a qualified medical professional, Botox is considered safe for most people. However, it is essential to discuss any health concerns or allergies with your provider before undergoing treatment.
A Botox treatment session typically takes about 10-30 minutes, depending on the number of areas being treated.
Results from Botox injections typically start to appear within 3-5 days, with the full effect visible within 1-2 weeks.
The effects of Botox generally last between 3-6 months, after which the treatment may need to be repeated to maintain the desired results.
Some potential side effects of Botox include pain, swelling, or bruising at the injection site, headache, and temporary drooping of the eyelids or eyebrows. Most side effects are mild and resolve within a few days.
Botox can be combined with other cosmetic treatments, such as dermal fillers, chemical peels, or laser skin resurfacing, to achieve more comprehensive facial rejuvenation results. Consult with a qualified professional to create a personalized treatment plan.