Thinking about getting started with injectables? BOTOX is often the first port of call for smoothing wrinkles and rejuvenating the face. If you have an important event coming up, you may wonder, “How long does BOTOX take to work?” or have some nerves over what to expect from the treatment.
To help you navigate your cosmetic treatment with confidence, here are our answers to some of the top BOTOX questions our patients ask.
How Long Does BOTOX Take To Work?
BOTOX typically takes 3 to 4 days to start affecting the muscles and relaxing the skin. However, it can take up to 2 weeks for the full effects of the treatment to be visible. Some BOTOX alternatives like DAXXIFY® work more quickly than BOTOX. With neuromodulators, patience and planning are key, so if you have a special event coming up, make sure you give yourself enough time for your body to respond to the injections.
What Are Common BOTOX Side Effects?
While BOTOX is well-researched, approved by the FDA, and generally considered safe when administered by a trained professional, it may have some mild side effects. The most common aftereffects include temporary redness, swelling, bruising, or tenderness at the injection sites. In rare cases, patients may experience headaches or flu-like symptoms, which typically resolve within a few days.
What Are BOTOX Danger Zones?
Another reason it is paramount to choose an experienced, trained injector is that improper administration of BOTOX can lead to complications. These “danger zones” result from poor technique, due either to subpar placement or too much product.
Common caution zones include:
- Between the eyebrows – Rather than treating 11s or frown lines, poor BOTOX technique could cause the eyebrows to droop or appear asymmetrical.
- Forehead – The stereotypical “frozen” look associated with bad BOTOX results from too much BOTOX injected into the forehead.
- Around the eyes – BOTOX effectively treats crow’s feet, but when poorly administered, patients may experience drooping eyelids, double vision, or other unwanted effects.
- Mouth and neck – Improper injections in the lips, around the mouth, and on the chin and neck can cause difficulty speaking, swallowing, and even breathing due to numbed, unresponsive muscles.
Does BOTOX Hurt?
Most patients report minimal discomfort during their BOTOX injections. We use very fine needles, and the procedure typically lasts only a few minutes. You may experience a slight stinging or pinching sensation at the injection site, but the treatment is usually well tolerated.
What Shouldn’t You Do After BOTOX?
If you’re wondering what not to do after BOTOX, don’t worry. We will provide you with detailed instructions. Generally speaking, you’ll want to avoid rubbing the injection site to prevent spreading the product beyond its intended treatment area.
You should also avoid activities that increase bruising and swelling or cause the BOTOX to disperse or metabolize quickly. These activities include strenuous exercise, excessive heat exposure (such as saunas or hot tubs), lying down, and drinking alcohol.
Can You Get BOTOX While Breastfeeding?
The potential transfer of BOTOX into breast milk and its impact on the baby is not well understood, so it’s best to err on the side of caution and postpone treatment until after breastfeeding. Along a similar line, do not have BOTOX treatments while pregnant.
How Much Is BOTOX?
BOTOX pricing varies depending on factors such as the provider’s experience, geographic location, and the number of units required for treatment. At Weiler Plastic Surgery Group, we charge $14 per unit. Our prices are competitive for our area and reflect the expertise and safe, predictable, and natural-looking results our injector specialists create.
Get Started With BOTOX
If you would like to learn more about BOTOX and the many benefits it can offer you, please request a consultation online or call Weiler Plastic Surgery at (225) 399-0001 to get started.
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