Botox is a neuromodulator (form of botulinum toxin type A) that is injected into targeted treatment areas using an ultra-fine needle. It works by blocking the nerve signals needed for facial muscles to contract. Its the repetitious contraction of facial muscles that causes expression lines and wrinkles. Once injected, the neuromodulator relaxes the muscles and decreases their movement to reduce the appearance of lines or wrinkles in the area. You will see your results gradually over 3-7 days following injection.

Botox can be used to address lines and wrinkles on a number of different facial areas, including the forehead, eye area (crows feet), and lip lines. It may be injected to soften dimpling of the chin. Botox can also be injected into the muscles of the jaw to help alleviate pain from teeth grinding or TMJ or for a jaw slimming effect. Some of these treatment areas may be considered off-label.

Botox treatments are quick with minimal discomfort. The treatment requires no anesthesia or recovery time. Many people get Botox during their lunch hours and are able to return to work right after their appointment.

The procedure is not considered painful. Most patients report a brief period of discomfort during the injection, which does not persist once the procedure is complete.

While the experience of each patient may differ, it usually takes 3-5 days to see the effects of Botox. For some, it may take up to 2 weeks to realize the final effects.

The results of Botox typically last between 3-5 months from the date of injection. Over time the body metabolizes the Botox, leading to the slow return of muscle movement in the treatment area. Patients can choose to maintain their Botox results for longer periods by undergoing periodic maintenance treatments every 3-4 months.

Some patients may wonder if they are too young or too old to try Botox. There is no right or wrong age to start using Botox. Patients should be evaluated and receive a consult by a medical professional prior to treatment. Many millennials are starting to using Botox in their twenties when they first start to notice lines and wrinkles or as a preventative measure.

Yes, Botox is an FDA approved treatment for reversing lines and wrinkles. However, patients who are pregnant, breastfeeding, or have certain neurological diseases should not receive Botox treatments.

A week before the treatment most physicians will advise patients to stop consuming alcohol or taking medications or supplements that thin the blood like aspirin, ibuprofen, Gingko Biloba, or Ginseng. This will help minimize bruising after the procedure.

Side effects from a Botox treatment may include bruising, swelling, redness, or tenderness around the injection site, all of which will resolve without intervention after a few days to a week.