By Bena Deva

Everything you’ll ever need to know about Botox.

1. What is Botox?

2. How do Botox and other neuromodulators work?

3. What are the benefits of Botox?

4. When will I see the results of botox injections, and how long does it last?

5. What are the risks of botox injections?

6. What areas of wrinkles can I treat?

7. How many units of botox do I need?

8. Can Botox be preventative?

9. At what age is it safe to start with injections?

10. How often should I get Botox injections?

What is Botox?

Botox is a highly purified protein used to relax facial muscles that cause wrinkles temporarily. Botox is short for botulinum toxin and the brand name of one popular product that contains this protein. There are other neurotoxin injectables like Botox that work just as well. These include Dysport, Xeomin, and Jeuveau.

2. How do Botox and other neuromodulators work?

All neuromodulators work by weakening muscle activity which is responsible for wrinkling of the skin with expression. Neuromodulators are a great tool to prevent the formation of static lines, which happen with repetitive motion over time. They lead to a smoother appearance and an overall rejuvenated and rested look. Especially popular areas for injection are the muscles that are responsible for frowning, squinting, raising eyebrows, and dimpling of the chin. Because everybody has unique anatomy and pattern of facial expression, we prefer breaking injections down by area rather than the amount that is being injected. Each person will require different amounts to achieve the same effect and sometimes, it takes an additional session to get the desired effect. That is also why we include touch-ups in our prices.

3. What are the benefits of botox?

The main benefit of botox is that it can temporarily reduce or eliminate wrinkles on the face. By targeting specific muscles of facial expression, frown lines and facial wrinkles can be decreased. The skin quality will appear younger and smoother. Botox can also help prevent new wrinkles from forming. Botox is most often used on the forehead, around the eyes, and in the area between the eyebrows. However, it can also be injected into other areas of the face.

Most popular ares for botox injections

• Severe frown lines of the forehead

• Worry lines

• Smile lines around the eyes (frown lines crow's feet)

• Dimpling of the chin

Botox can also be used to treat several other conditions:

• Excessive sweating (hyperhidrosis)

• Migraines and headaches

• Muscle spasms

• Gummy smile

4. When will I see the results of botox injections, and how long does it last?

The onset of effects vary slightly among the different botulinum toxin type of neuromodulators, but in general, you will see the full effects of botox within a week or two. The results are not permanent and will gradually wear off over time.

The length of time the results last depends on the individual and the specific areas injected. On average, Botox lasts 3-4 months.

5. What are the risks of botox injections?

Botox is one of the most popular cosmetic procedures because it is considered safe and effective when performed by a licensed medical professional. The risks with most of the neuromodulators are the same and include pain, swelling, or bruising at the injection site. Rare effects are headache, flu-like symptoms, and upset stomach. However, these side effects typically go away on their own within a few days. More severe side effects are rare but can include trouble breathing or swallowing, muscle weakness, double vision, and loss of bladder control. That is why it is essential to speak with an experienced physician or injector beforehand. A thorough exam and understanding of facial anatomy will make complications very rare.

Botox fact sheet

• Downtime: Minimal downtime. You can immediately go back
  to work or resume any activity.

• Pain: None to minimal. We use numbing creams and neurostimulators
  to make it as comfortable as possible.

• Aftercare: Just resume your regular skincare. Want to enhance your
  look even more? Browse our Medical Grade Skincare and blog for ideas.

• Side effects: Minor bruising or discomfort at the injection site can
  happen but will quickly disappear

6. What areas of wrinkles can I treat?

Botox is most commonly used to treat forehead wrinkles, crow's feet. Botox can be used to treat forehead creases, crow's feet (lines around the eye), and frown lines between the eyebrows.

• Crow’s feet (frown lines crow's feet)

• Forehead lines

• Frown or Glabellar Lines

• Bunny or Nasolabial Fold Lines

• Gummy Smile

• Dimpled Chin

• Neck Wrinkles

• Masseter muscles

7 .How many units of botox do I need?

The number of units of botox needed will depend on the specific area being treated, the severity of the wrinkles, and the desired results. Because everyone's anatomy is slightly different we prefer planning injections by area rather than unit. That way we can guarantee you get the result you want.

8. Can Botox be preventative?

Botox can also be used for preventative purposes in order to avoid the development of wrinkles. This is common among Hollywood celebrities and other public figures who wish to maintain a youthful appearance. If you are interested in using botox for preventative purposes, you should consult with our medical practitioners to see what area is right for you.

9. At what age is it safe to start with botox?

There is no set age to start with botox, but it is typically recommended for patients who are starting to see the formation of wrinkles. However, each individual is different and so it is important to consult with an experienced physician or injector beforehand to ensure that the treatment is right for you.

10. How often should I get botox injections?

The frequency of botox injections will depend on the specific area being treated, the severity of the wrinkles, and the desired results. In general, however, it is recommended that patients return for touch-ups every 3-4 months in order to maintain optimal results. Is there anyone who shouldn't receive botox? Botox is considered safe for most people. However, as with any medical procedure, there can be risks and complications. That’s why it is crucial to consult with an experienced and trained medical practitioner.

If you wonder if Botox injections are the right thing for you, then come by one of our locations.

We will gladly give you a complete facial analysis and how injectables can help you.