Whether you are considering your first Botox® injection or are experienced, you may have questions. In this article, we will answer some of the top Botox FAQs people ask.
What is Botox®?
Botox® is a brand name for an injectable that relaxes the muscles. Technically, it is a neuromodulator called “Botulinum Toxin Type A.” It is used for both cosmetic and medical uses.
Cosmetically, it temporarily relaxes the muscles associated with expression lines and facial tension. This results in smoother-looking skin with fewer noticeable wrinkles. Medically, it is used for various issues, including treating and preventing tension headaches for people with chronic headaches.
How long does Botox® take to work?
The results of Botox® injections are not immediate. It usually takes anywhere from three to fourteen days for full effects to emerge. This varies by the individual and your metabolism. Most people start noticing the difference a couple of days after treatment.
Is Botox® safe?
Botox® is generally considered safe for most people. The fact that it is FDA-approved for cosmetic use indicates it meets the rigorous standards for prescription medication.
Of course, like any medication, there is a risk of side effects. The most common include temporary tenderness and bruising around the injection sites. Other less common side effects include blurry vision, headaches, droopy eyelids, and the risk of rare but serious conditions.
Speak with your doctor or cosmetic provider about things to know before getting Botox. They vary by person, and your provider should help you determine whether you have any contraindications that might increase the risk of adverse side effects.
Most people return for more treatment because they like the results and don’t experience any significant side effects.
Can you get Botox® while pregnant?
Unfortunately, there is not a clear answer to this question. Botox® hasn’t been studied enough to determine whether it is safe during pregnancy. The FDA considers it a Category C drug during pregnancy, which means it isn’t tested on pregnant women thereby not proven safe or unsafe.
Most doctors recommend avoiding elective cosmetic procedures during pregnancy just to be safe. If you are asking because you got Botox® injections before learning of your pregnancy, talk with your Ob-gyn for the latest information and reassurance.
Can you get Botox® while breastfeeding?
As with pregnancy, there just isn’t enough information to determine whether Botox injections are safe while breastfeeding. The FDA’s stand is that it is not yet known whether Botox is safe during either pregnancy or breastfeeding.
Since there isn’t a clear answer, many women opt to wait until after they wean their baby to resume Botox® treatments. Some feel more secure and opt to pump and dump their breast milk for a while.
With these personal decisions, we recommend talking with your child’s pediatrician for the latest information.
Does Botox® hurt?
Not usually; most people don’t find Botox® to be very painful. This varies by person. Some experience tenderness, a pinching sensation, or mild pain during the injection. Others experience very little, if any, discomfort.
Can you work out after Botox®?
Plan to work out hours before your Botox® injection, or even better, plan to take a rest day. For best results, avoid vigorous exercise for 24 hours following an injection. You may walk and be moderately active. However, we also don’t recommend lying down for at least four hours.
Also, consider the activity; even if the activity is leisurely, wait 24 hours before swimming, doing most yoga poses, and other activities that may put pressure on the face, cause sweating or stimulate circulation too much.
Is Botox FDA approved?
Yes, Botox is FDA approved to treat the appearance of:
- Wrinkles between the eyebrows are known as the “11’s lines”
- Fine lines around the eyes are known as “crow’s feet”
- Horizontal lines across the forehead
A legacy version of Botox® was originally approved in 1989 to treat a rare eye disorder. Since then, it has been approved for various therapeutic purposes, including treating spastic muscles, headaches, and other conditions. In 2002, the FDA approved it for cosmetic use.
How often can you get Botox®?
Botox® injections are temporary and intended to last around three or four months. However, the effects vary depending on the individual. Most people will need a new injection after three months to maintain their results.
You may safely receive more injections depending on a variety of factors. Some providers do a follow-up visit to see how the results have settled and if you want different results, you may be able to get additional injections.
Can Botox® lift eyebrows?
Yes, a skilled provider can inject Botox® into the muscles around the eyebrows that can cause them to furrow or point down. Those muscles relax, and the eyebrows are pulled slightly upwards, resulting in a more lifted look.
Many people love this effect since they feel better rested and more alert. Talk with your provider about your hopes and learn whether they are realistic. There are a few surprising ways that strategic Botox® injections can affect resting facial expressions beyond simply smoothing expression lines.
Who can administer Botox®?
Botox® injection regulations vary a little from state to state. Medical professionals, including nurses, physicians, physician assistants, or dentists, may legally administer Botox.
In addition, Botox® providers need to complete additional training in aesthetic injections. When seeking Botox® and other cosmetic injectables, you want to work with a skilled medical professional.
How do I get started with Botox®?
If you are considering Botox injections, your first step is to book a consultation with a medical professional who is experienced with Botox® injections. During this consultation, discuss your aesthetic goals, concerns, and needs. Your provider should ask about your medical history and any conditions that may contraindicate Botox®.
Since Botox® is a minimally invasive and relatively safe procedure, barring any medical issues, you may be able to get your injections after your consultation. If you live in the Charlotte area, book your consultation at The Skin Center by CPS.