Botox FAQs: Answers To Common Questions For First-Time Botox Patients
Botox is a popular non-surgical, injectable treatment that eradicates lines and wrinkles. With more than 7 million treatments performed last year, Botox is one of the most popular cosmetic procedures in the world.
Are you considering a Botox treatment for the first time but have questions about what the treatment will be like? As the leading provider of Botox in Austin, my colleagues and I see many first-time patients. Here are some of the most common frequently asked questions we get about Botox:
How does Botox work?
Botox is a neuromodulator (form of botulinum toxin type A) that is injected into targeted treatment areas using an ultra-fine needle. It works by blocking the nerve signals needed for facial muscles to contract. It’s the repetitious contraction of facial muscles that causes expression lines and wrinkles. Once injected, the neuromodulator relaxes the muscles and decreases their movement to reduce the appearance of lines or wrinkles in the area. You will see your results gradually over 3-7 days following injection.
What areas of the face can be treated with Botox?
Botox can be used to address lines and wrinkles on a number of different facial areas, including the forehead, eye area (crow’s feet), and lip lines. It may be injected to soften dimpling of the chin. Botox can also be injected into the muscles of the jaw to help alleviate pain from teeth grinding or TMJ or for a jaw slimming effect. Some of these treatment areas may be considered off-label.
What does a Botox treatment feel like?
Botox treatments are quick with minimal discomfort. The treatment requires no anesthesia or recovery time. Many people get Botox during their lunch hours and are able to return to work right after their appointment.
Is Botox painful?
The procedure is not considered painful. Most patients report a brief period of discomfort during the injection, which does not persist once the procedure is complete.
How soon will I see results?
While the experience of each patient may differ, it usually takes 3-5 days to see the effects of Botox. For some, it may take up to 2 weeks to realize the final effects.
How long does Botox last?
The results of Botox typically last between 3-5 months from the date of injection. Over time the body metabolizes the Botox, leading to the slow return of muscle movement in the treatment area. Patients can choose to maintain their Botox results for longer periods by undergoing periodic maintenance treatments every 3-4 months.
When should I start getting Botox?
Some patients may wonder if they are ‘too young’ or ‘too old’ to try Botox. There is no right or wrong age to start using Botox. Patients should be evaluated and receive a consult by a medical professional prior to treatment. Many millennials are starting to using Botox in their twenties when they first start to notice lines and wrinkles or as a preventative measure.
Is Botox Safe?
Yes, Botox is an FDA approved treatment for reversing lines and wrinkles. However, patients who are pregnant, breastfeeding, or have certain neurological diseases should not receive Botox treatments.
Should I do anything to prepare for the treatment?
A week before the treatment most physicians will advise patients to stop consuming alcohol or taking medications or supplements that thin the blood like aspirin, ibuprofen, Gingko Biloba, or Ginseng. This will help minimize bruising after the procedure.
Are there side effects?
Side effects from a Botox treatment may include bruising, swelling, redness, or tenderness around the injection site, all of which will resolve without intervention after a few days to a week.
What is the difference between Botox and other neuromodulators like Dysport and Xeomin?
While Botox, Dysport, and Xeomin treat the same symptoms in a similar manner there are differences between these products. For more details, please refer to the following blog posts:
Natalie Yingling is a Family Nurse Practitioner and a graduate from the University of Texas at Austin. After completing her Masters degree, Natalie specialized in cosmetic dermatology. Natalie is a member of the American Academy of Nurse Practitioners and Austin Advanced Practice Nurses. She loves helping her patients meet their aesthetic goals and enhance their natural beauty.
Hello, I have a wedding coming up in about two weeks and want to get Botox for the first time. Is now the best time to do so? 14 days before an event?
Hi Penelope,
Thanks for reading our post and submitting your great question! 14 days out is a great time to get Botox. The results will be fully apparent and any sort of bruising around the injection sites will be completely faded away. So we would recommend getting the treatment as soon as possible. As always, make sure to visit an experienced and properly licensed injector!
Thanks,
WD Staff
I take care of my skin properly so that I can avoid the lines and wrinkles as much as possible but still I am in mid 30s and I would need Botox in near future may be. Great topic, you got answered many of my questions!
I thought BOTOX was painful. I am glad to see that this is not the case. Now I am willing to get it done.
Not painful at all. I did forehead and it was quick and painless.