How to Get Botox Injections

According to the Academy of Plastic Surgeons, Botox injections are the most popular cosmetic procedure in the United States, with over 800,000 patients receiving treatment every year. Used mainly to treat wrinkles in the forehead and between the eyebrows, it can also be an effective treatment against crown’s feet, excessive sweating and involuntary eye twitching.

Instructions

1. Research the procedure thoroughly. While most people are familiar with Botox, few understand what to expect. For example, injections last an average of four months, after which you will need to get them again. At a cost of $400 or more per treatment, it can turn into quite an investment. Aside from cost and durability, it’s important to also understand which areas can be treated, what to expect and who shouldn’t use it.

2. Find a qualified doctor. Spas, aestheticians and other beauty professionals are not qualified to deal with needles and dangerous substances. A plastic surgeon, on the other hand, understands the procedure well and can decide the best course of action to get rid of any particular set of wrinkles. That said, not all plastic surgeons have practice using Botox, so make sure you confirm past experience before agreeing to anything.

3. Talk to your doctor about what to expect during the procedure. Because the amount of Botox used is so small, it usually takes only 10 to 15 minutes for the whole treatment, but it can take longer depending on the number of areas to be treated. While most people experience no pain at all, some may find the experience uncomfortable.

4. Don’t get Botox late in the evening. You will be instructed to stay in an upright position for at least four hours after the injection. Morning or lunch time are best.

5. Ask your doctor for follow-up instructions on how to take care of your skin. This can include dietary changes, special creams to use and what to avoid (sun, smoking). The more you take care of our skin, the better it will look in the surface and the longer the results are likely to last.

Tips & Warnings

• While complications with Botox injections are rare, they can occur. The most common ones are aesthetic, such as drooping eyelids. However, Botox can also cause headaches, slight bruising and can affect people who suffer from musculoskeletal conditions.

• Pregnant women should not use Botox.