• How does Botox work?
• Is Botox treatment painful?
• When will I notice a difference and how long does it last?
• What can I expect during and after Botox treatment?

How does Botox work?

Over-activity of facial muscles can produce marked expression lines or wrinkles. Botox injections relax the muscles. The intent of Botox therapy is to decrease muscle movement in order to reduce the formation of deep lines or creases. When Botox is injected into a muscle that is causing wrinkling of the skin, the overlying skin will temporarily become quite smooth resulting in a more youthful appearance

Is Botox treatment painful?

Botox treatment consists of a series of skin injections through a very small needle. There is moderate discomfort for the short injection period and slight "tenderness to the touch" may occur at treated areas for 24 to 48 hours. Redness and/or swelling are typically minimal. Botox patients can reasonably expect to return to work or attend social engagements immediately following their treatment.

When will I notice a difference and how long does it last?

The full effect of Botox is usually not apparent for five to ten days after the treatment. The duration of the Botox effect varies with each individual. Botox is usually metabolized in approximately four to six months. Patients may choose to have maintenance treatments. The interval between re-treatments may increase with ongoing maintenance treatments. Some patients can be maintained on yearly treatment sessions.

What can I expect during and after Botox treatment?

The procedure involves injecting Botox in the area to be treated with a very tiny needle. The actual treatment takes approximately 15 minutes. Botox treatment requires no recovery time and has a very low incidence of side effects. The most common side effect is bruising at the injection site, but this is uncommon, minimal and temporary.

Botox injections to reduce frown lines on rare occasions may temporarily cause eyelid drooping. In the rare case when this occurs, it is typically noticed in the first week or two after treatment and usually resolves within four weeks. If eyelid droop occurs, a medication may be prescribed to help alleviate this temporary condition.