We have all heard about BOTOX®, but how many of us actually know what it does or how it works? At Advanced Aesthetics, we understand that any kind of procedure where you’re injecting something into your body can feel a little overwhelming. Our skincare experts have broken down the ins and outs of BOTOX (including how it works, and what to expect after your procedure) so you can feel comfortable and confident on the day of your treatment.
What Is BOTOX®? What does BOTOX® do?
BOTOX® is an FDA-approved, temporary aesthetic treatment that reduces the look of wrinkles, fine lines, and cosmetic signs of aging. First gaining FDA approval in 2002 for cosmetic use, BOTOX® is now one of the world’s most recognized and iconic beauty treatments with over 100 million vials of BOTOX® sold in the United States in less than 20 years.
Wrinkles and deep lines on the face are caused by repeated muscle contraction that comes from daily facial expressions like frowning, smiling. BOTOX® works by blocking acetylcholine signals from your nerves to your muscles in order to temporarily reduce facial muscle contraction and activity.
That may sound scary, but BOTOX® is actually incredibly safe when performed by an experienced doctor. Once BOTOX® is injected, clients will begin to notice a soft relaxation and smoothing of lines and wrinkles at the application site as their muscles begin to relax.
Is BOTOX® Safe? Are There Side Effects?
BOTOX® is a protein made from Botulinum, which is a byproduct of the Clostridium botulinum bacteria. Clostridium botulinum is a naturally occurring bacteria and can most often be found in soil, lakes, forests, as well as in mammals and fish.
In the 1950s, scientists discovered that small doses of botulinum could help in reducing muscle spasms and twitching in humans. This research continued and by 1989, botulinum was successfully being used to treat a number of muscle-related medical conditions. In the last 20 years, BOTOX® use has expanded to various health scopes, especially dermatology.
When administered in small doses, BOTOX® can have multiple positive medical and cosmetic benefits, such as:
· Reduction of fine lines and wrinkles
· Treatment for muscle spasms such as cervical dystonia
· Treatment for excessive sweating, or hyperhidrosis
· Treatment for bladder dysfunction
· Treatment for eye twitching and lazy eye
· May help prevent chronic migraine
According to the American Osteopathic College of Dermatology, BOTOX® is safe and has very few side effects when used appropriately. The potential minor side effects of BOTOX® include:
· Pain, swelling, or bruising at the injection site
· Headache or flu-like symptoms
· Droopy eyelid or cockeyed eyebrows
· Crooked smile or drooling
· Eye dryness or excessive tearing
How To Prepare for a BOTOX® Treatment
Before the procedure
Most people don't feel much discomfort during the procedure, so don’t worry about taking any pain medication before your treatment. Instead, stay away from any supplements or blood thinners 2 to 3 days prior to your treatment.
Additionally, you will want to avoid excessive exercise and sweating before your treatment, as well as pineapple. We know, it seems crazy, but pineapple is believed to have a negative effect on post-procedure recovery.
During the procedure
BOTOX® injections will be performed at our Cleveland, Ohio location. The number of injections, or units, varies from person to person.
Our specialist will use a thin needle to inject a small amount of BOTOX® into your skin or muscles. We use a nano-needle in order to make the process almost pain-free/more comfortable. If it is your first time, we take 10-15mins to explain the background of BOTOX® along with the benefits and risks associated with the procedure to ensure you are comfortable with moving forward.
After the procedure
Clients should avoid rubbing, touching, or massaging the treated areas for at least 24 hours. Additionally, it is recommended that clients stay upright for at least 4 to 6 hours post-treatment and avoid the gym for about a day. These recommendations are to help prevent the BOTOX® from spreading to a different area.
How Long Does BOTOX® last?
It takes anywhere from 24 hours to 14 days to start seeing results from a BOTOX® treatment. From there, clients can expect to experience the maximum effect of their treatment around 1 to 2 weeks. After that, we recommend clients come back every 2 to 4 months to maintain the results of their treatment.
How Much Does BOTOX® Cost at Advanced Aesthetics?
When you visit Advanced Aesthetics for a BOTOX® treatment, you can expect to pay around $12 per unit. Typically, units per treatment breakdown as:
· 6-10 units for the forehead
· 20 units for glabella lines, or your “eleven” wrinkles between your eyebrows
· 12 units for crows feet (6 per side)
· 4-8 units for above the brow
· 10-30 for the neck
At Advanced Aesthetics, we also are enrolled in Allē, a loyalty program where you can receive rewards and multiple ways to save on treatments. Ask any of our specialists about Allē to learn how you can apply points to your next BOTOX® treatment.
How Do I Get Started?
The best way to kick off your BOTOX® is to call us! We are more than happy to talk you through the process, answer any questions, and recommend any different or supplemental services that may help achieve your specific skincare goals.
Ready to book, that’s great! Feel free to book online or call us to set up an appointment.
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