What to Expect When You First Get Botox

Botox is a popular cosmetic procedure and more Americans are getting it every single day. If you are getting Botox for the first time, there are some things you should be aware of.

How many injections do you need?

There is a common myth that Botox is just one big intravitreal injection. This isn’t usually the case and treatment consist of several injections that are spread out over the different areas of the face. The exact number of injections you will need will depend on your specific situation

How does Botox feel?

A main concern with Botox is the pain. The idea of putting needles in your face is scary. However, it’s not as painful as you might expect. While the procedure isn’t painless, the amount of pain you will feel is minimal. Some people compare it to what you may feel when getting acupuncture.

Some people find that injections in certain areas of the face hurt more than others. If you have a low tolerance for pain, you may be able to ask your doctor about a topical numbing cream.

How long does it last?

Unfortunately, it’s not a one-time fix and in order to maintain results, you may need to return for some more injections. This can involve a visit every four to six months since this is normally how long Botox will last. An advantage of Botox is that it’s not permanent and it doesn’t need to be a big commitment.

Are there side effects?

Many people don’t experience any side effects at all. The worst you can experience is some bruising or swelling and a little redness. You also won’t have a complete frozen and expressionless face as long as you go to a licensed practitioner.

How do you prepare for treatment?

Before getting Botox, stop taking any medications that can thin your blood, such as aspirin or ibuprofen. Avoid drinking alcohol a week before your procedure.