How does Botox work?
Botox temporarily blocks muscle contractions and nerve signals to the muscle. Because the injected muscle contracts, the wrinkles relax and soften, improving their appearance between the eyebrows and around the eyes. Additionally, it prevents the contraction of facial muscles, therefore, slowing down the formation of new lines, leaving you looking younger. Despite Botox reducing facial wrinkles, it does not reduce all of them; wrinkles from gravity and sun damage are an exception. Botox is minimally invasive; it does not involve general anesthesia or any incision; however, to numb the treatment area, you can use ice or a topical anesthetic if you are concerned about discomfort or pain.
How is the procedure done?
Getting Botox takes a few minutes, approximately 10-25 minutes depending on the area and number of applications. You will not need anesthesia for this procedure; however, if you are concerned about discomfort or pain, you can use ice or topical anesthetic. The treatment provider uses a small, thin needle to inject between three to five injections of Botox into specific muscles. You might only experience minor discomfort. To smooth out wrinkles around your eyes, you will need three injections on the side of each eye. For Botox to take full effect, it requires between one and two weeks. At least one week before the procedure, you should avoid alcohol, and to prevent bruising, you should stop taking anti-inflammatory medications and aspirin two weeks before. To avoid the Botox from spreading to another area, you should avoid rubbing the area injected for 24 hours. Additionally, you should avoid exercise and stay upright for 4 hours after the Botox shots.
Side effects of Botox.
A patient may experience minor discomfort or bruising, but this improves within a few days. Bruising is the most common side effect. Other side effects of Botox include;
- Headaches, which may end in a day or two.
- Numbness
- swelling or drooping in the eyelid area happens if one rubs the injected area and the Botox moves around. The droopiness goes away within three weeks.
- double vision
- stomach upset
- drooling or crooked smile
- severe tearing or eye dryness
- neck pain
- tiredness and flu-like symptoms
- weakness in nearby muscles
- asthma symptoms, itching, rash, and other allergic reactions.
If these side effects occur, it is best to contact your Botox treatment provider immediately.
After Botox Treatment
You are advised to avoid massaging or rubbing the injected area to prevent Botox from spreading. A Botox shot between the eyebrows will require you to stay upright for 4 hours; do not bend over or lie down to avoid the Botox from spreading, thus causing drooping of the eyelids. There is little or no recovery or downtime expected. Noticeable results show within the first two days of treatment. The effects of Botox can last up to 6 months, and to maintain the results, you can go for additional Botox injections.
How much does it cost?
The cost may vary depending on the geographic location of the clinic or medical spa, the size of the area to be treated, and the number of injections. Additionally, there is no health insurance coverage because this is a cosmetic procedure.
Call or visit our South Bay Med Spa website to inquire about Botox or book an appointment with us!
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