Botox
Considerations
Pros
– Injections are relatively painless and carry a low risk, with little-to-no downtime.
– Can help you appear less angry and more approachable
– Make subtle changes that give you a refreshed or well-rested look
Cons
– Effects of injections will only last three to six months
– Risk of droopy eye or muscle if injected incorrectly
– If area to be injected is sensitive, bruising may occur
Am I good candidate for botulinum toxin injections?
– Deep lines between your eyes make you look tired, angry, sad, or upset.
– Your facial expressions cause wrinkles in and around your eyes and forehead.
– There is asymmetry in your eyebrows or face that can be corrected by relaxing a muscle.
– You suffer from migraine headaches and botulinum toxin may provide relief from this condition.
If you are in good general health, have a positive attitude and realistic expectations, you are most likely a good candidate for this procedure.
About Your Procedure
How is a botulinum toxin procedure performed?
Botulinum toxin injections can usually be completed on the same day as the initial evaluation. They do not require hours to perform or days to recover. Once you and your surgeon have decided on an appropriate treatment, he or she will prepare you and the medication for the procedure. The injection site will be cleansed and will usually not require anesthesia prior to injection. The needles used are very short and thin, causing minimal pain. Depending on your specific concerns and condition, a number of injections will be needed to achieve the desired result. Slight pain, short-lasting swelling, and minimal redness and bleeding will likely occur as a result of your procedure.
Once the neurotoxin has been injected, it will take several days to reach full effect and a follow-up visit is often scheduled weeks to months after the initial injection.
Preparing For Your Procedure
How do I prepare for a botulinum toxin procedure?
Although botulinum toxin injections are generally low-risk and do not require the intensive screening of a surgical procedure, you should always disclose a full medical history and any medications you are currently using to your plastic surgeon. Regardless of the type of procedure to be performed, hydration is very important before and after treatment for safe recovery. Your doctor or injector may ask you to stop smoking at least six weeks before your procedure.
Inform the plastic surgeon’s office if:
– You have had botulinum toxin injections in the past.
– You are using NSAIDs such as aspirin, ibuprofen (Advil or Aleve), anticoagulants or blood thinners.
– You are taking muscle relaxants, allergy or sleeping medication.
Some medications could cause complications, bleeding or extra bruising. Find out if you need to discontinue or skip the medications for several days before your procedure to prevent any problems.
Aftercare And Recovery
– Avoid massaging or touching the injected area afterwards; this may inadvertently cause the botulinum toxin to spread to an unintended area.
– Lying down or inverting the body shortly after injection can also cause complications.
– Avoid strenuous or vigorous activities for the rest of the day.
– Ask or call the office before taking painkillers or medication.
How Long Will My Results Last?
Depending on your age, skin condition and habits, effects of botulinum toxin could last anywhere from three to six months.
Limitations And Risks
– Temporary muscle weakness.
– Redness, irritation and swelling at the injection site.
– In rare instances, patients may experience dry mouth, headache, dizziness, nausea and fever.
If you have a symptom that is more serious, such as a rash or trouble breathing, please call your doctor immediately.