The Dos and Don’ts of BOTOX
Whether you want to prevent wrinkles or boost your confidence, BOTOX® is a great way to give your face that extra fresh look. Although this is a nonsurgical solution, it doesn’t mean it’s any less serious. Keep reading to learn the Dos and Don’ts of BOTOX.
BOTOX is the procedure of injecting the bacterium clostridium botulinum toxin into the skin. The toxin then blocks signals from nerves to muscles, which causes wrinkles to relax and soften. Most people use BOTOX for cosmetic reasons, such as lifting eyebrows, eliminating frown lines, or reducing wrinkles in the eye area.
BOTOX can also reduce excessive sweating in hands, feet, or armpits. Like in muscles, the BOTOX acts as a blocker. This time, to the nerve that typically stimulates sweat glands.
Before you decide to get a BOTOX procedure, prepare for the treatment with these Dos and Don’ts of BOTOX list.
Do Be Upfront and Honest with Your Doctor
Lying to your doctor will only hurt you. Make sure you answer all your doctor’s questions honestly and accurately. Tell your doctor all relevant medical history to determine if you will make a good candidate for cosmetic BOTOX.
Their questions may include:
- Current usage of supplements, herbs, or medications
- Allergies
- Medical conditions, diseases, or illnesses
- Past cosmetic procedures
- Pregnancy
Make sure they know if you haven’t had BOTOX before. This information may determine the amount of BOTOX they inject. Some doctors will use a conservative approach for new patients in order to gauge their reactiveness to BOTOX and for a better result in the end.
Don’t Decide to Get BOTOX Spontaneously
A common fad among women is to throw BOTOX parties where an inexperienced person injects BOTOX to a bunch of friends at once. Not only are BOTOX parties extremely unsanitary, but they also could lead to life-long injuries.
Only trust an experienced doctor to inject BOTOX. They can discuss with you precise results you want and help you understand what to expect. For example, if you want to reduce wrinkles, fillers may be a better option than BOTOX. Your results depend on their skill and techniques, so find a doctor who you trust.
Do Talk with Your Doctor about Results You Want
Saying you want BOTOX for an eyebrow lift isn’t enough. Make sure you and your doctor understand which areas you want treated, what you want them to look like, and what your ideal final result looks like.
Most people have different ideas of what ideal looks like, which means you both need to get on the same page about what you want. Perhaps your doctor likes a higher eyebrow than you would. The more you define the target you’re aiming for, the more likely you will get the results you want.
Talking with your physician will also ensure you don’t have unrealistic expectations. They should be upfront about what you can expect from BOTOX. For example, sun damage won’t go away after BOTOX. They also should make sure you understand that even BOTOX procedures that work out great, take time to set in. Setting realistic expectations will save you from feeling unnecessary disappointment.
Don’t Forget to Ask Questions
Before you decide to get BOTOX, create a list of the questions you have for your physician. You can ask them during your initial consultation. This will save you from forgetting to ask questions that may determine your decision. Your questions may include:
- Cost for treatment
- Amount of BOTOX needed
- Doctor experience
- Risks and side effects
- Required skin care post-injection
Do Stop Taking Over-The-Counter Medications that Could Thin Your Blood
A week before your injection, stop taking aspirin and Ibuprofen. You will need your body to build up blood cells before the BOTOX treatment. You should also avoid herbal supplements including Ginkgo Biloba, ginseng, and vitamin E.
Do Plan for a Slow Recovery
Within the first hour after surgery, you want the BOTOX to spread across muscles. So, try exaggerating facial expressions. Avoid rubbing the injection site, exercising and lying down.
You can expect slight bruising or bleeding for the first few days. Side effects from BOTOX usually remain around the injection site. This area may feel tender and cause mild headaches. To relieve this pain, take over-the-counter acetaminophen to relieve pressure. However, avoid using ibuprofen and aspirin. These medications may increase bruising. If you need pain medication, try Tylenol.
You should also avoid alcohol for a week after your injection. You can relieve swelling and bruising around the injection site with an ice pack.
Finally, remember to be patient. The BOTOX may take a couple weeks to appear. Don’t rush into a repeat treatment until after three months from your first injection. This time will allow your body to heal from side effects.
Don’t Hesitate To Call Your Doctor after the Injection
Although rare, BOTOX could lead to shortness of breath or droopy eyelids. You should call your doctor if you notice something out of the ordinary. Pay attention to your body during the recovery period and don’t hesitate to call your doctor.
Now that you know more about the Dos and Don’ts of BOTOX treatment, talk with your doctor to see if you are a good candidate.