What botox is, the purposes it is used for, how the procedure works and the main points to observe afterwards, compiled from a physician perspective.
Botox has become a common cosmetic treatment for millions of women and men who want to address their wrinkles. Naturally, it is also one of the treatments people most want to understand.
If you have not tried botox yet, there is no need to worry. This guide, prepared in the light of current and reliable information, is designed to answer the questions on your mind. Let's take the first step by answering "what is botox?".
What Is Botox?
Botox (botulinum toxin) is an FDA-approved wrinkle relaxant used to treat moderate to severe lines such as crow's feet and forehead lines.
Why Is Botox Used?
Botox is derived from a bacterium called Clostridium botulinum, found in nature and in the intestines of some fish and animals. Dr Alan Scott, an ophthalmologist, discovered the substance now known as botox and sold the rights to Allergan in 1991. FDA approval for cosmetic use followed in 2002.
How Does Botox Work?
Botox targets the muscles we use when smiling, frowning, squinting and raising our eyebrows in order to soften wrinkles. In its early days it was used to help with eyelid muscle spasms, lazy eye and strabismus.
How Long Does a Botox Treatment Take?
A typical botox treatment takes only about 10 minutes.
Who Can Perform Botox Treatment?
Botox must be administered by a licensed physician trained in the field. Once you decide on treatment you should scrutinise the competence of the clinic and the physician and read all reviews carefully, including those on social media. The laws of your country define who may perform botox treatment and under what conditions.
Which Areas Can Botox Treat?
Beyond softening unwanted wrinkles, botox can be used for neck spasms, migraine, bladder problems, excessive sweating and foot and leg pain. It is FDA approved for moderate to severe lines above the lip, at the corners of the mouth, on the forehead and at the crow's feet.
Can Botox Lift the Eyebrows?
Yes. Botox treatment can increase the height of your eyebrows.
Can Botox Correct Uneven Brows and Asymmetry?
Yes. By lifting the brow, botox can correct brow asymmetry.
Is Botox Treatment Painful?
Most people do not find botox treatment notably painful. The procedure involves small needle injections.
Is Anaesthesia Used Before Botox?
Usually not. Most people find the treatment comfortable, and ice is applied afterwards to reduce swelling. Botox is mostly performed without numbing cream. In the forehead area, for example, results can last 3 to 6 months.
How Should I Prepare for Botox Treatment?
Tell your physician if you are planning surgery or have recently had facial surgery, if you have difficulty raising your eyebrows, if your eyelids droop, if you are pregnant, planning to conceive or breastfeeding. You should also mention any botox treatment within the last 4 months.
Will I See Results Immediately?
No. Botox is not an instant treatment; it takes a few days before you start to see results. Optimal results appear 7-10 days after treatment.
When Will I Start Seeing Results?
You may start noticing that wrinkle lines have softened within 24 to 48 hours, with optimal results within 10-14 days. Botox results can last up to 4 months.
What Happens When Botox Wears Off?
As botox wears off, your wrinkles gradually begin to reappear.
Does Botox Remove Wrinkles Permanently?
No. Botox does not permanently reverse the wrinkles on your face; it is a temporary treatment that wears off within 3-4 months.
What Determines the Cost of Botox?
The number of units varies from patient to patient depending on age, the strength of the facial muscles, previous treatment history and the desired outcome. Some people need 10 units while others need 20. For this reason, the treatment plan and its cost only become clear after examination; general figures found online say nothing about your individual case.
How Safe Is Botox Treatment?
Botox is FDA approved and backed by 16 years of research published in hundreds of scientific journals. The toxin from Clostridium botulinum can cause paralysis at high doses, but it is safe and effective when used in small amounts for cosmetic purposes by a licensed and trained clinician.
Is Having Botox Risky?
Botox treatment is safe when performed by an experienced physician. Rare side effects include swelling, bruising or pain at the injection site. Some people may feel a headache. Other risks include drooping eyelids, uneven or arched brows, dry eyes or watering eyes.
What Are the Side Effects of Botox?
Itching, redness, wheezing, asthma symptoms, dizziness, faintness, dry mouth; discomfort or pain at the injection site; fatigue; headache; neck pain; and eye problems such as double or blurred vision may occur.
Does Bruising Happen After Botox?
Not everyone who has botox experiences bruising. Small bruises lasting up to 10 days may occur at the injection site and can be covered with make-up. To minimise bruising, it is recommended to stop fish oil, blood-thinning supplements and medicines such as aspirin one week before treatment; with your physician's approval you may also take arnica or vitamin K.
Is Botox Safe?
Many medical studies have been conducted to demonstrate the safety of cosmetic botox treatments, and side effects are extremely rare.
Is Botox Harmful in the Long Term?
Long-term treatment has been observed to weaken the muscles, which can mean you need less botox over time. The skin on the forehead may look thinner where botox is applied. Reports of slight colour change exist but are rare.
Can You Smile After Botox?
Yes, as long as you have the treatment with an experienced physician. However, if too much botox is injected you may end up with a "frozen" appearance. This is why the importance of choosing an experienced practitioner is worth underlining again.
Can Botox Be Combined With Other Procedures on the Same Day?
Some treatments, such as Hydrafacial or dermal fillers, can be carried out before your botox appointment or on the same day. Other treatments are not recommended on the same day. A consultation is the best way to find out which treatments can be combined.
Can You Exercise After Botox?
Sweating or exercising is not recommended for at least 24 hours after treatment.
How Long Do Side Effects Last?
If you do experience a side effect, which is rare, it usually lasts about 24-48 hours.
What Does It Feel Like When Botox Starts Working?
Most people feel nothing when botox starts to work. Some describe a slight heaviness and tightness in the treated area.
Will I Still Be Able to Make Facial Expressions?
Yes. When performed correctly by specialists, botox does not prevent you from smiling, laughing or raising your eyebrows. Some patients want less movement than others; our physicians review your goals with you.
Can Botox Be Used During Pregnancy?
No. Botox is not recommended if you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant.
Can You Have Botox While Breastfeeding?
No. Botox is not recommended while breastfeeding.
What Should I Avoid Before Botox Treatment?
Avoid fish oil and blood-thinning medicines such as aspirin or ibuprofen, as they can cause bruising. Avoid alcohol for 24 hours before treatment to minimise bruising. Do not book a botox appointment immediately before major surgery or treatment, and consult your physician about your situation. If you have a special event such as a wedding or an important meeting, book your appointment at least 2 weeks in advance; this allows plenty of time to heal and to return for a touch-up if needed.
What Should I Avoid After Botox Treatment?
- Avoid rubbing your face or pressing on the area for 24 hours so the product does not spread to other areas.
- Avoid exercise for at least 24 hours.
- Stay away from saunas, sweating and intense heat.
- Do not wear a hat or headband immediately after treatment.
What Is Aftercare Like?
You can wash your face gently after treatment. Make sure you do not apply pressure to or massage the treated area. Avoid heat, sweating and exercise for 24 hours after treatment.
Can Everyone Have Botox?
Both women and men aged 21 and over can benefit from botox treatments. Many people in their twenties now start treatment earlier for preventive reasons. Botox is not recommended if you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant. You should avoid botox if you have a skin infection. A consultation is the best way to establish whether it is suitable for you.
How Do I Know I Am Getting Genuine Botox?
First, choose a reputable and authorised physician and ask to see the product packaging. An original vial carries the brand logo and a holographic image with the product name on it.
What if My Botox Looks Uneven?
Do not panic. This is easily corrected at your physician's practice; a few more units are added to balance the treatment.
