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While Botox injections may be widely known, understanding how they work, what the procedure entails, and what to expect after treatment is key for anyone considering this cosmetic solution to help keep you safe.
How Botox® Works to Stop Wrinkles
Botox, short for botulinum toxin, is a neurotoxin that temporarily relaxes muscles. Each time that we frown or raise our eyebrows, we're making lines that get deeper and deeper. But when our facial muscles are relaxed, we can't express them as much or as hard. Botox blocks the nerve signals that cause these muscles to contract, relaxing them. This not only prevents the skin from creasing but also softens the appearance of existing wrinkles.We should also note that the term “Botox” is like “Kleenex” for tissues – it is a brand name associated with a neurotoxin, but there are other products that can produce the same look and outcome. The other brand we have traditionally offered and really like to use is called Dysport®. We have found that some people like Botox better and some Dysport better, and we talk with our patients about the differences. And now there’s a new product called Daxxify®, which we are beginning to evaluate. It is relatively new, FDA-approved within the last year or so, and is supposed to last longer than Botox.
Botox has been FDA approved for your upper face including your forehead, the area between your eyebrows where vertical lines can appear, and the wrinkles or crow's feet around your eyes.
It is very important to note that Botox cannot improve wrinkles which are present in your skin when you are not making a facial expression – we call these “static” lines versus “dynamic” lines that occur when you smile or make other facial expressions. Botox is more of a preventive treatment to keep wrinkles from becoming permanent and does not reverse lines which have become static or deep set into the skin.
The Process: What to Expect
The first step is to meet with us for a consultation. Please note there is a $100 fee for the consultation. Every face is different, and every person has different goals. We believe in a conservative approach and do not believe there is a one-size-fits-all recipe. Instead, we look at your face and its muscles, talk about your goals, and then recommend the product and the lowest dose that will achieve your goals and give you a natural look.The procedure itself is quick, minimally invasive, and usually takes around 10-20 minutes, depending on the number of areas being treated. Botox and Dysport are generally well-tolerated, but some people may experience mild side effects such as temporary bruising or swelling at the injection site, but this typically resolves within a few days. Mild headaches may also occur in some patients after injections, though they, too, are usually short-lived.
What Physical Changes Can You Expect
While some people might notice slight improvements within a few days, the full effect of Botox typically becomes visible within 7-14 days. As the targeted muscles relax, you’ll see a reduction in the appearance of wrinkles. Treated areas should appear smoother and more youthful, but you’ll still be able to make natural facial expressions.Again, at Atrius Health we are conservative and risk-averse in this approach, meaning we don’t want to do anything that will be too extreme for you. Let's use the analogy of adding salt to your food recipe. You can under-salt a recipe, people are generally happy, and for those that want a little more, they can add salt at the table. But if you over-salt a dish, it can be awful. The same principle can apply to Botox: if you have too much injected and you're overly frozen (which has happened to a lot of people!), it just feels heavy and may not look good at all, and you never want to do it again. For first timers, we start on the low end and wait the 1-2 weeks it takes to establish. We then have you come back, and we may add a little bit more. That way, we have a recipe that’s right for you which we can reproduce when you want it.
How Long Does It Last?
Botox is a temporary treatment, and its effects generally last about 3 months. As the neurotoxin’s effect wears off, the muscles gradually regain movement, and wrinkles may start to reappear. To maintain the results, many people schedule follow-up treatments every few months. With consistent use, some individuals notice that the muscles "learn" to contract less, allowing longer-lasting effects between treatments.There are people who try it once for a special event and never do it again, and those that do it every three months consistently. What’s good to know is that you don’t have to maintain it once you start, you can simply not repeat it and you will go back to looking as you did before. Using another analogy, it's like getting a new haircut: you test it out and make sure you like it. If you don't like it, you can get rid of it and if you love it, you can repeat it.
Who Should Not Try Botox
While Botox is considered safe for most people, certain conditions may prevent someone from getting the injections. These include:
- Pregnancy or Breastfeeding: Botox has not been extensively tested in pregnant or breastfeeding women, so it's generally avoided in these cases.
- Neurological Conditions: Individuals with certain neurological disorders, such as multiple sclerosis or ALS, should avoid Botox as it could potentially exacerbate their symptoms.
- Allergic Reactions: Those with known allergies to any ingredients in Botox or Dysport or past reactions to botulinum toxin should avoid treatment.
- Medications: Certain medications, such as blood thinners, may increase the risk of bruising at the injection site. It’s essential to disclose all medications and supplements you take to your provider.
