Botox® is one of the most well-known names in the plastic surgery industry, but most of our patients aren’t quite sure what it does and how it’s used. Today, we wanted to clear up where lines have gotten blurred and give you answers to the questions you have about this popular rejuvenation gel.
1. What does Botox® do to the face?
Botox® is best known for treating fine lines and wrinkles around the upper face. Botox® does this by temporarily relaxing the muscles in the treated area, so they don’t create the fine lines and wrinkles caused by repeated facial expressions that we like to call “action wrinkles.” Botox® can also be used to treat other conditions like migraines and hyperhidrosis (excessive sweating) by temporarily freezing the areas that send the signals in the body to create discomfort.
2. Where can you get Botox® injected?
Botox® is most commonly used to treat deep forehead wrinkles, crow’s feet around the eyes, frown lines between the eyebrows, and bunny lines along the bridge of the nose. That being said, Botox® has also been used to create the illusion of fuller lips, create the appearance of more lifted, almond shaped eyes, stop excessive sweating in the hands and underarms, and reduce the onset of migraines.
3. At what age should you start getting Botox®?
While there is no perfect age to start receiving Botox®, we typically see patients between the ages of 35 and 65 come in for regular treatments. We may recommend patients over the age of 65 to consider more invasive and more permanent facial rejuvenation procedures, such as a facelift or brow lift. Botox® can also be used to prevent premature signs of aging in patients who have not yet experienced frown lines and wish to ensure they don’t appear.
4. What should I avoid after Botox®?
Because Botox® is a minimally invasive cosmetic treatment, there really is no downtime or recovery period following your appointment with Dr. Pollard. We do highly recommend you avoid drinking, smoking and using any blood-thinning anti-inflammatory medication like Aspirin or ibuprofen following your Botox® treatment, as these will increase swelling and bruising in your treated areas. However, our patients are able to return to their normal daily routines, including work, immediately following treatment.
5. How much time does it take for Botox® to work?
Botox® works by using the active ingredient, botulinum toxin, to temporarily freeze the muscles in the treated areas that are causing fine lines and deep wrinkles to appear. Because the active ingredient takes time to take effect in the muscles, it may take three to five days for you to see the full results of your Botox® treatment. That being said, your desired results typically last up to four months at a time, after which we recommend coming in to see Dr. Pollard for a touch-up.
Do you still have some unanswered questions about how you can benefit from Botox®? Feel free to contact us at your convenience and set up a one-on-one consultation with Dr. Emily Pollard. She’ll be there for you every step of the way to ensure you’re as comfortable and as confident as possible with your decision to get Botox® treatments. We are also offering virtual consultations, so you can get all of your questions answered in the comfort and safety of your very own home.
