Botox is one of the most common cosmetic treatments for reducing fine lines and wrinkles today. This procedure can also be done for medicinal purposes, like reducing neck spasms, lessening TMJ symptoms, and treating migraines. As a cosmetic treatment, botox lasts between three to four months. As a medical procedure, the results are a little more short-lived. In any case, here is everything you need to know about the process after receiving treatment.
What to Expect During the Procedure
A botox procedure should be done in a comfortable environment. Procedures usually start by talking to the provider about your needs, desires and goals.
Once a treatment plan is decided, they’ll clean the needed areas and prepare them for the injections. You may be given some ice packs or numbing cream to make you more comfortable. No anesthesia is required.
The injections will be applied at various sections to target the desired muscles. Don’t be surprised if the doctor also marks the areas to be targeted with a marker to inject them more easily.
How Long Does Getting Botox Take?
The whole procedure may seem long from the description above. In reality, the average treatment lasts for around fifteen minutes.
Those who have never done the procedure before should expect it to last somewhat longer, as there needs to be more time for the consultation part of the process.
How Soon Can You See the Results?
When the procedure is done, you may notice a few bumps on the injection site, but don’t be alarmed, as this is perfectly normal. Experiencing some bruising is possible too, but this should pass in the first 24 to 48 hours after the treatment.
A little bit of time needs to pass for the neurotoxins to kick in, so don’t expect to see the results right away. The first results will be visible in the first week, in the first three to five days, to be more precise.
You may need to wait a little longer to see the full results, as it takes ten to fourteen days for maximum results. So wait until then to decide whether you’re satisfied with your results and if you’re not, keep your touch-up appointment with Dr. Charlotte Paz-Pabon for further evaluation and recommendations to make sure you’re 100% satisfied.
Will Repeated Use Affect Duration?
How long it lasts varies from person to person, but on average, you can expect the results to hold anywhere between three and four months.
Repeated use of botox treatment can prolong the duration of the results. This is because the toxin gradually paralyzes muscles to get you the results you’re after.
How Can You Prolong the Effects?
A major factor in getting botox in South Miami is the skill and the quality of the injector. Trained and experienced providers can maximize the benefits you gain from this treatment.
The best you can do on your end is stick to the below-noted botox aftercare system.
What Can You Do As Part of Botox Treatment Aftercare?
If you want to maximize the effects and the results of botox, you need to practice proper aftercare. Followed closely, aftercare can help minimize the risk of bruising and the risk of the toxin spreading to other areas. Good aftercare includes:
- Relaxing on the day of the injection
- Minimizing pressure and contact with your face
You can also do light facial exercises, like smiling, frowning, and raising your eyebrows. These will help distribute the product through your face, improving its absorption and effects.
What Not to Do After Botox: Tips for a Safe Recovery
There are several things you should avoid to recover safely. Things like:
- Avoid exercise for 24h – exercise increases blood flow, leading the toxin to spread to other areas.
- Avoid facial (and skin treatments in general) – You want the botox to settle into your face. Things like facials and exfoliating scrubs can disturb the toxin and reduce its effectiveness.
- Minimizing exposure to the sun – You should avoid the sun for at least 24 hours after surgery. The heat can increase flushing and your blood pressure, which can lower the effectiveness of the botox and lead to bruising.
- Avoid sleeping on your treated areas – The extra pressure of sleeping on that side will prevent the Botox from settling properly into your face.
When Should You Call Your Doctor?
Some botox side-effects are quite normal and are nothing to be alarmed about. So, you can expect some redness, tenderness, and swelling of the affected area, lasting around 24 hours.
On the other hand, there are certain warning signs that call for medical attention. Things like:
- Speech difficulty
- Breathing difficulty
- No/weak bladder control
- Muscle weakness
- Issues with swallowing
- Blurry vision/vision changes
If you don’t know what not to do after botox and have some concerns, you can always call our office.
How Often Should You Repeat Botox Treatment?
Under the list of things not to do after botox is to go for another procedure when less than three months have passed.
This is because getting another treatment so soon can increase your resistance to botox, thus making it harder to achieve the same effects with future treatments.
There is no more general rule of thumb for how often you should repeat it, though. Every person is different, and how often you should repeat treatment will come down to what our providers determine is best for your particular case.
Conclusion
Getting a routine botox procedure doesn’t have to be hard or scary. Aftercare is just as important as the procedure, so make sure to follow the instructions our office has given you, as well as the tips in this article.
Did this guide give you a clear picture of what to expect during and after your first treatment? Still have concerns, opinions, or questions? Let us know by booking an appointment online or calling us at (305) 665-1133.