Wrinkles, lines and other signs of aging may be signs of wisdom, knowledge, and experience throughout many cultures of the world. Many people in the western world, however, see these signs of aging as undesirable due to cultural ideals of beauty associated with it. Fortunately, for those who are looking to turn back time and diminish facial wrinkles, Botox can be used to get you that youthful glow back. Before you start your Botox journey, you should know what Botox is, how to prepare for the treatment, and know what to expect afterwards.
What is Botox?
Botox is the name brand of a botulinum toxin which is injected below the skin, into the muscles of the upper face. Botox diminishes facial wrinkles due to its relaxing effect on the muscles of the face. As a result, at the sites of injections muscle movement is reduced and wrinkles are unable to form. It is important to know that Botox is injected primarily in the upper third of the face, treating crow’s feet, frown lines, and forehead lines. The lines and hollows on the lower 2/3 of the face, such as nasolabial folds, tear trough hollows, and marionette lines are treated with dermal fillers such as Juvederm.
What to Know Beforehand:
Although Botox is not a surgical treatment, it is still essential to find a qualified facial plastic surgeon who can determine the need for the treatment. Once you’ve found an experienced and highly skilled facial plastic surgeon, schedule an initial consultation to address your concerns, ask questions, and establish a personalized treatment plan.
Botox is administered through several injections using a fine needle, so it is imperative that you stop taking any blood-thinning medications before your treatment. These medications include:
- Ibuprofen (Advil, Aleve, Motrin)
- Aspirin
- Omega-3s and Fish Oil
- Excedrin
- Ginseng
- St. John’s Wart
- Vitimin E
- Ginseng
The day of your appointment, make sure you have no makeup on your face – or at least cleanse your face before going in. Regardless, your doctor will clean and sterilize the areas of injection to decrease the possibility of infection.
What to Know After Botox:
There are some general post-care instructions that you should implement in order to maximize the results of your Botox treatment. Following these instructions for the first 24 hours will affect the longevity of the treatment.
- Refrain from touching or massaging injection sites
- Do not exercise
- Avoid alcohol
- Avoid blood-thinning medications
- Do not get any chemical peels or facial treatments for 2-3 days
- Do not lay down for at least 4 hours
Implementing these post-care instructions will maximize the duration of your Botox treatment, but length of duration varies depending on how fast the body metabolizes the botulinum toxin. Most individuals have results that last typically 3-4 months. Keep in mind that once Botox is injected, complete onset takes around 2 weeks. Remember to plan accordingly for any events you may have in the future. It’s recommended that you have your Botox treatment 3-4 weeks in advance in order to look your best.
Dr. David Shamouelian is a highly skilled facial plastic surgeon who offers Botox and other treatments to help you look and feel your best! Call to schedule your complimentary consultation today.
(888) 265-2335
201 South Lasky Dr.
Beverly Hills, CA 90212
