BOTOX® Cosmetic is a prescription drug that, when injected, temporarily paralyzes muscles. It contains a purified and safe form of botulinum toxin A, which is produced by the microbe that causes botulism. Manufactured by Allergan, Inc., it is used to treat furrows and wrinkles in the skin that are formed by the continual contraction of facial muscles.
Applications for BOTOX Cosmetic
Although originally approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration for the treatment of eye and muscle spasms, BOTOX Cosmetic was quickly recognized for its cosmetic value. Properly placed injections of BOTOX Cosmetic block nerve impulses sent to muscles, weakening them to the point where they cannot contract and temporarily eliminating furrows and lines. BOTOX Cosmetic is used to treat the following:
- Forehead furrows
- Frown lines
- Crow’s feet
- Lip flip
- Bunny lines
- Gummy smile
- Neck bands
- Tech necklines
- Perioral lines
- Chin dimpling
- Facial slimming
- TMJ
- Clenching and grinding
- Temples
- Tension headaches
- Crepiness
- Nasal flaring
- Trapezius tension
BOTOX Cosmetic Procedure and Results
Using a very fine needle, BOTOX Cosmetic is injected directly into facial muscles that are causing furrows and lines. Receiving the injections requires no anesthetic. Results can usually be seen within 10-14 days of treatment and typically last three to four months, although areas that are treated on a regular basis may retain results longer. Injections should be given only by qualified medical professionals.
After-care of BOTOX Cosmetic
- No exercise 24 hours after
- No laying down for 4 hours after
- No direct pressure 10 days post (massages, facials, waxing, etc.)
- No make-up for one hour after
- No active cold sores for lip treatments
What Can I Expect From Botox Treatment?
Before receiving Botox injections, you will need to schedule a consultation with one of our qualified providers. During this consultation, our staff will go over your medical history, ask you what your aesthetic goals are, and address any concerns you may have. This information is critical to the success of your treatment.
After your consultation, our provider will begin constructing your treatment plan. This treatment plan is custom-tailored to both your needs and aesthetic goals. Once your treatment plan is in place, your Botox treatment can begin.
The injections you will receive are usually quick and painless. A thin needle is inserted into the target area, and the Botox is injected. Depending on where you are receiving these injections, your Botox treatment can last a few minutes to half an hour.
What is Recovery From Botox Like?
There is minimal downtime, if any at all, after Botox treatment. You can safely resume your daily activities immediately upon treatment. During your recovery, you can expect to experience mild swelling, redness, or bruising. These side effects are temporary and will fade away within a few hours, but it is possible for them to last a few days. There are certain factors that can cause complications after your Botox treatment.
These factors include the following:
- Do not rub your face, as it can spread the Botox to other parts of your body.
- Do not stay in the sun for too long.
- Do not take blood-thinning medications, as they can cause bleeding and bruising in the treated areas.
- Avoid consuming alcohol as it can act as a blood coagulant and cause side effects, such as swelling, skin sensitivity, and bruising.
What Are The Contraindications of Getting BOTOX?
Although BOTOX is usually safe, there are certain factors that can disqualify you from being a good candidate.
These contraindications include the following:
- You have an allergy to the botulinum toxin.
- You have a neuromuscular disorder, such as myasthenia gravis.
- You have an active infection or skin condition.
- You are currently pregnant or breastfeeding.
- You are taking blood-thinning medications.
If you fit any of these criteria, it is best to treat the active infection and wait until you are finished expanding your family before proceeding with BOTOX treatment. If you have a medical condition that completely disqualifies you from treatment, our staff can offer you safer alternatives to help you meet your aesthetic goals.
Is BOTOX Safe?
Yes, BOTOX is a safe procedure and is approved by the FDA. However, as with any type of cosmetic procedure, there are risks involved.
These risks include the following:
- Experiencing flu-like symptoms
- Having a mild headache
- Pain and discomfort at the injection sites
- Drooping eyelids
- Muscle weakness
- Potential spreading of the toxin
- Experiencing an allergic reaction
Most of these risks are temporary and will subside over time. However, if your side effects persist or worsen, contact us immediately.
Schedule a Consultation
If you are interested in receiving BOTOX or would like to know more, our highly experienced team at Opal Aesthetics is here to help. Contact us at 405-456-0759 to schedule a consultation with us today.
