Is Botox right for me?

What is Botox?

Botox is a neurotoxin and is used to treat overactive muscle movement. Neurotoxin treatments rank as the top cosmetic procedure in the U.S., primarily utilized to smooth out dynamic wrinkles. These wrinkles develop from facial movements such as frowning, squinting, smiling, and other daily expressions. The treatment works by inhibiting nerve impulses to the muscles, leading to muscle relaxation. Consequently, facial expressions become softer, and dynamic wrinkles are significantly diminished, according to the American Board of Cosmetic Surgery. Neurotoxins are derived from C. botulinum bacteria, which are present in many natural settings, including soil, lakes, forests, and the intestinal tracts of mammals and fish2. They are FDA treatments for a multitude of conditions. Common brand name neurotoxins are Botox Cosmetic®, Dysport®, Xeomin®, Jeuveau®, and Daxxify. There are minor differences between brands, including ingredients, concentration, and dosing; however, for the purpose here, we’ll just keep it simple and use Botox as our example throughout.

What does a typical Botox appointment look like?

If you’re interested in receiving Botox treatments for wrinkles and fine lines, you’ll first want to locate an experienced injector. Med-spas, doctor's offices, dentists, and aesthetic practices are just some of the places you might receive Botox. Processes and procedures can vary from practice to practice, but typically, you can expect to have a consultation prior to your Botox injections. Your consultation may take place just before you receive treatment with Botox, or it may be a completely separate appointment. The injector or overseeing medical provider will likely ask you questions about your medical history, current medications, and allergies. Additionally, you will be asked to make a variety of facial expressions so they can observe your facial features, muscles, and skin. This initial consultation will determine if you are a good candidate for Botox treatments, as well as how much and where you will receive Botox injections.

 Botox injections are calculated and charged to you by the unit, so if you have a budget in mind, this is the time to speak up! Additionally, it’s important to take time to discuss, in-depth, with your injector the areas you want to treat and your desired results. For example, you may want to treat frown lines between your eyebrows, but you still want to maintain some natural movement to the muscles there and avoid looking or feeling “frozen.” Your provider will also take time to discuss the risks and benefits of Botox injections. Finally, it’s time to receive the agreed-upon treatment. Again, this might be immediately following the consultation or at a separate appointment. Your injector may offer numbing cream; however, Botox injections are generally well tolerated, and numbing is typically not necessary. The areas receiving treatment on your face will be cleaned by the injector, and through a series of shallow injections using a tiny needle, the treatment will be administered. 

It’s important to take another opportunity to reinforce the importance of open communication between patient and injector regarding desired results and final cost prior to and at the time of Botox treatment. 

What about after the initial treatment?

After you receive your Botox treatment, your provider will give you written and/or verbal instructions for dos and don’ts for the next 24+ hours. Especially if it is your first treatment with Botox, or your first treatment at a new office. It is recommended that a follow-up appointment be made in 2 weeks, as it may take up to 10-14 days for the full effect to be seen. This follow-up will allow you and your injector to review results and make desired changes if needed.  Additional injectors may be recommended to improve desired results, address facial asymmetry, or correct undesired effects. At the follow-up appointment, you will pay for additional treatment received, and notes will be added to your chart for next time (to hopefully avoid the necessity of a follow-up appointment).

Risks & benefits of Botox, and is it right for you?

Like any medical procedure, there are risks and benefits involved in Botox treatments, and only you and your provider, through discussion and physical examination, can decide if you’re a candidate and if treatment will likely provide the desired results. If you’re interested in finding out more, you can book a consultation with a local Botox provider, who will give you time to discuss your unique situation without the pressure of treatment at the same appointment. During the consultation, you will be able to gain insight into cost and likely personal results, which will help you make an informed decision that’s right for you! Oftentimes, people opt to add on additional services at their appointment, such as IV Therapy.

 Fun Fact: Zinc can actually PROLONG the effects of Botox, so perhaps a great option is an immunity infusion! If you’re interested in the anti-aging benefits of IV therapy, click here to learn more. To ask any questions or to schedule a consultation, reach out to us today!