Botox FAQs

As an experienced Botox provider, our team at the Dermatology Clinic understands that many of our patients have questions about this popular and safe cosmetic procedure. To give you a better idea what to expect from Botox, here are a few answers to some commonly asked questions.

How does Botox work?

After an injection, Botox blocks signals from the nerves to the muscles, which causes the surrounding muscles to relax. Typically, when facial muscles contract, they cause the skin above to loosen and become wrinkled. By preventing facial muscles from contracting, Botox can successfully diminish wrinkles by helping the face to relax.

How is Botox administered?

Botox treatment only takes a few minutes to complete and requires no anesthetic. Our team of trained Botox estheticians will use a fine needle to inject a compound into specific muscles with only slight discomfort. It usually takes between three days to a week before the effects of the injections begin to take full effect. We generally recommend that patients avoid consuming alcohol for at least a week before their scheduled treatment, and that they stop taking any anti-inflammatory medications at least two weeks prior to their treatment.

How long do Botox injections last?

The effects of Botox injections will last anywhere from between four to six months. As facial muscles begin to slowly contract, the wrinkles and lines of a patient’s face will begin to reappear. In most cases, the wrinkles and lines that do come back are less severe than what patients may have exhibited before.

What are the side effects of Botox injections?

The most common side effect reported by Botox patients is temporary bruising. While headaches may develop over the first 24 to 48 hours, this is far less likely to occur. A small number of patients report eyelid drooping, but this issue typically goes away after two or three weeks. Drooping typically occurs in cases when Botox moves around the face, making it important for patients to avoid touching or massaging their face for at least 12 hours after treatment.

How many treatment sessions are needed before seeing results?

When correctly administered, patients should see results after their first treatment. While it can take two to four days before the muscles relax enough to see noticeable improvements, the full effect of the treatment should be visible within a week.

Is Botox safe?

Absolutely. When administered by a trained professional, Botox poses no risk to your health.

Who should avoid Botox injections?

Pregnant patients, patients who are currently breastfeeding and patients with certain neurological disorders should avoid using Botox. As Botox will not work to eliminate all types of wrinkles, we encourage all of our patients to first receive a Botox consultation prior to scheduling treatment.

Will my insurance pay for Botox injections?

Whether your insurance will cover Botox injections largely depends on your individual plan and whether the procedure is deemed medically necessary. When used strictly for cosmetic purposes, Botox injections are frequently not covered by insurance. For help determining what your insurance covers, contact our office and a member of our front office staff will assist you in determining what benefit options you have available.