Retaining a youthful appearance is highly desired by men and women across the globe. More and more are turning to cosmetic dermatology options like these Fort Collins Botox services to resist the downward pull of gravity in their appearances. Botox continues to be one of the fastest growing and most popular cosmetic treatments for fine lines and wrinkles. According to the 2017 Plastic Surgery Statistics Report, Botox was the most sought-after cosmetic minimally invasive procedure with over 7 million procedures performed in both 2016 and 2017 (you can see the exact numbers by clicking here).
It’s popularity surely makes it intriguing, but here are some common questions people ask to help you decide if Botox is right for you:
1. First Thing’s First. What Is Botox?
BOTOX® Cosmetic (onabotulinumtoxinA) is a medication that is injected into the skin to improve the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. It is effective for both men and women. You can read detailed product information, recommendations, and even see before and after pictures by clicking here.
2. Is Botox Safe?
BOTOX® Cosmetic is approved by the FDA to improve the appearance of moderate to severe frown lines, crow’s feet, forehead lines, and wrinkles. Certain conditions will disqualify you from getting Botox, such as neurological diseases.
3. How Does BOTOX® Cosmetic Work?
Botox injections work by preventing the targeted facial muscle from contracting causing it to relax and keeping it from forming wrinkles and producing a softer, more youthful appearance.
4. Are There Any Side Effects?
Like any medication, Botox can have adverse side effects in certain people. However, when administered correctly, BOTOX® Cosmetic does not typically present serious side effects. Minor side effects may include headache, slight muscle weakness, and bruising, swelling, redness or irritation at the injection site. These typically subside in a short period of time. More serious side effects can result if the medication moves from the targeted area, so be careful not to rub, touch or massage the treated area for 12 hours after injection. It is also recommended to not lie down immediately after the procedure to help keep the Botox in the right spot.
5. In What Areas Can I Get Botox Injections?
It is most commonly used to treat wrinkles around the eyes (crow’s feet) or frown lines between the eyebrows. It can also be used for deep forehead creases or smile lines around the lips.
6. Will the Injection Hurt?
Most patients report that the injections feel like a small pinch. A highly trained medical provider will have the experienced technique needed to make pain as minimal as possible. Patients are often surprised to find little to no pain.
7. How Long Does the Procedure Take?
A typical BOTOX® Cosmetic treatment can be done quickly, often in just 10 minutes. Many patients schedule the procedure during their lunch breaks.
8. How Long Will the Effects Last?
Patients sometimes notice results within 24 to 48 hours. However, improved results are typically noticed within 3-7 days. You should notice the maximal effect after two weeks. The effects of BOTOX® Cosmetic typically last around 3-4 months so follow-up injections are recommended to maintain results. By maintaining a regular routine of injections, your muscles become accustomed to being in a more relaxed state, deep wrinkles will see more improvement, and the effects may last longer.
9. When Is the Best Time to Start Using Botox?
Beginning a BOTOX® Cosmetic regimen is best done when wrinkles have become noticeable and constant, remaining visible even when the face is not active. A growing trend in cosmetic dermatology is using Botox at a younger age to prevent fine lines, deep wrinkles, or creases from forming in the first place.
10. Will Botox Make My Face Look Fake and Stiff?
When injected correctly, Botox should give you beautiful, youthful results that don’t make you look fake. However, if injections are not given correctly or too much is administered at a time, you may notice unnatural results. The key to natural, yet noticeable results is to schedule an appointment with a highly trained cosmetic dermatologist. At Front Range Dermatology Associates, BOTOX® Cosmetic injections are administered by medical providers with the experience and knowledge needed to perform the injections correctly. For more information call our office today at (970) 673-1155 to schedule an appointment or fill out our contact form.