Botox is modern medicine’s gift to every woman. With no cuts, stitches, or downtime, it’s no wonder that Botox is the number one cosmetic procedure in the United States. As the go-to treatment for those in need of a little sprucing up, Botox is on everyone’s lips (even though it may not be on everyone’s face just yet). Sure, everyone’s heard of it. But does every Botox-newbie really know what it’s all about? How does it work? What happens after a procedure? How long does it last? Here’s complete Botox guide to answers all your questions.
Your Botox Procedure
How long does a Botox treatment session take?
A typical procedure takes about 15 minutes when administered by an experienced medical professional.
Is there any downtime after a Botox session?
There is no downtime. Patients can return to their normal daily routine right after the procedure.
What can I expect after a Botox treatment?
Afterwards, it is possible (though unusual) that you may have some slight bruising and tenderness at the injected site. Some experience short-term headaches.
When do I see the results of the Botox injection?
The effects of Botox take a few days to take hold. It usually takes 7-10 days to see the final effects.
How long do the effects of Botox last?
The effects typically last about 3 months. Depending on the patients, the effects of Botox can last from 1-6 months. With regular treatments every 3 months, the effects often last longer. Visit our Botox page, to find out more about Botox treatments at BodyLase®.
The Backstory on Botox
What is Botox?
Botox is a purified protein created by a specific type of bacteria. This protein is a strong neurotoxin. Allergan, the maker of Botox, purifies this naturally occurring neurotoxin to make a high-quality, cosmetic-grade, FDA-approved medical product that’s officially authorized for treatment of wrinkles.
How does Botox work?
As a neurotoxin injected into carefully selected areas, the proteins binds to motor neurons and block the release of a neurotransmitter called acetylcholine. This is the neurotransmitter is in charge of triggering and activating muscles. By blocking the neurotransmitter acetylcholine, Botox helps relax those excessive muscle contractions responsible for obvious, unsightly wrinkles.
What happens to Botox within my body over time?
Once Botox is administered it immediately binds to those motor neurons located in your injected muscles. Botox does not spread within your body or blood once it’s injected into the wrinkle site. Over time Botox will be broken down and naturally metabolized by your body. And the relaxed muscle effect is not permanent but usually lasts about 3 months.
Who’s the average Botox patient?
With all the talk about Botox in magazines, you are forgiven if you think Botox is only for models and celebrities. A recent survey by the Aesthetic Surgery Education & Research Foundation reveals that the average Botox patient is a married, working mother from a five-figure household income and she’s somewhere between the age of 41 and 55.
Can I use another product along with Botox to enhance the wrinkle-free effects?
Many people pair fillers like Juvederm with Botox to enhance the wrinkle-free look. Studies demonstrate that fillers break down slower when paired with Botox. Since Botox hinders muscle contractions surrounding the area treated with a filler, the volume and smoothness offered by the filler can last longer.
