Botox Treatments FAQ

Botox remains one of the most popular cosmetic treatments that is used to cut the effects of aging, such as wrinkles and laugh lines. These fine lines can quickly make a person’s self-confidence fall and leave them wishing that they had the same taut skin they had when they were younger, and making them wonder whether this procedure is right for them. These answer to some of the most commonly asked questions will help every person decide if this is the right treatment for them.

What is injected into the skin?

A drug called botulinum toxin is produced using a neurotoxin. Botulinum toxin is simply Botox for short.

How does it work?

Botox works by paralysing groups of muscles. A person develops wrinkles because of the way that the skin moves when they do certain things or make certain expressions. For example, when a person smiles, the skin by the eyes wrinkles, resulting in crow’s feet. Botox works by temporarily paralyzing those muscles, preventing them from moving, therefore preventing wrinkles from developing

Will I still be able to smile?

It seems as though everyone has seen a television show or funny meme that over exaggerates the effects of this procedure. Most people think of an elderly woman who tells those around her that she is laughing, but they cannot tell because she just got Botox. Her face is stiff and does not move at all.

While these may be comical, they have led several patients to believe that this is what this treatment will do. Many patients do experience a decreased ability to move their facial muscles, but it is not usually as extreme as it is portrayed in the movies.

For example, a person will usually still be able to smile after a treatment, but they may not be able to smile as widely as they could prior to the injection.

Is it safe?

As with any drug, there is the risk of side effects. Some of the common side effects that patients report after receiving their first injection include, but are not limited to: itching, muscle stiffness, muscle weakness, sore throat and runny nose. Patients often experience a few mild side effects at the injection site, such as swelling and mild inflammation.

Every person will have a different experience, just like ever medication effect every patient differently. While one patient may not have any side effects, another may have quite a few. Free consultations are often available to speak with a trusted member of the medical community to decide risk factors.

How long will it last?

Often, this depends on the treatment that is given. Some patients choose to receive an injection that can last for up to five years while other patients opt for one that will last about six months. This all depends on what the patient wants.

Patients that are receiving their first injection are encouraged to start small to reduce the risk of side effects, and to make sure that this is right for them.

These are some of the most often asked questions by patients that are interested in this method to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, or to help prevent them all together. Patients that have more questions are encouraged to call their local spa to ask about scheduling a free consultation to ask them any other questions, and to help them decide if this method is right for them.

While this procedure is one of the most popular, people also have many other options available, such as fillers and make up. Every person is different, and every person is open to different things. Deciding on the perfect plan is all about the patient.