BOTOX BASICS.
BOTOX is my
#1 favorite cosmetic treatment.
I get a lot of questions about BotoxⓇ from patients, friends, and family. If you are bothered by wrinkles or want to slow down the development of wrinkles, BotoxⓇ is for you! I will try to answer some of the most common questions about BToxA Basics.
WHAT IS BOTOX?
Let’s start with a little science! Botulinum toxin A (BToxA, for short) is the scientific name for the active ingredient in the well-known brand BOTOXⓇ. Although BOTOXⓇ is the “OG,” other popular brands for the same BToxA compound include DysportⓇ, XeominⓇ, and JeuveauⓇ. I will do a separate post on the nuances between these different brands.
BToxA works as a MUSCLE RELAXANT to prevent wrinkling that occurs with facial movements. It not only relaxes wrinkles, but can DELAY them from forming. For example - if everyone in your family genetically has dramatic furrowing between their eyebrows, you have the power to prevent this from happening to you with botulinum toxin injections (it’s an ESSENTIAL). BToxA is an excellent treatment for wrinkles that are already forming and for the prevention of wrinkles; I started using BOTOXⓇ when I was 25!
WHERE IS BOTOX INJECTED?
The most common areas that are injected to improve wrinkles include between the eyebrows (glabella), crow’s feet, and horizontal forehead wrinkles. However, an experienced injector will know how to inject other areas based on your concerns and needs.
HOW OFTEN?
Botox takes 2-3 days to begin working, and about 10 days to fully kick in. Effects last around 3 months on average.
COST?
Botox is typically priced around $10-15 per unit. The amount of units needed completely depends on what your Botox goals are. On average, patients spend around $200-$400 per treatment session.
WHO INJECTS BOTOX?
Botox results are only as good as your injector. Please see an injector with extensive training and experience, such as a board-certified dermatologist, board-certified plastic surgeon, or an experienced nurse injector with thorough training. This person should know all the anatomy of the face including the muscles, nerves, and vessels, and the risks involved in injecting any area. Don’t be afraid to ask questions!
RISKS & SIDE EFFECTS?
Bruising, pain, swelling, eyelid droop, asymmetry, headache.
CONTRAINDICATIONS?
Certain pre-existing neurological diseases (such as ALS, myasthenia gravis), infections on the skin at injection sites, previous allergic reaction to BToxA. Injections should also be avoided in pregnancy and breastfeeding.