If you’ve recently begun to notice wrinkles and lines developing on areas of your face, you may be wondering what your options are for restoring a more youthful appearance. While there are many choices available on the market for wrinkle reduction including both surgical and non-surgical options, Botox has remained one of the most commonly used treatments geared toward decreasing wrinkles since it came on the scene in 1989.
Botox’s popularity is due to it being safe and effective for almost every patient, and the fact that it requires little to no downtime after the procedure is performed. In this article, we will provide an overview of Botox treatment so that you can determine whether or not the procedure is the best choice for you. If you want to learn more about Botox, an experienced Botox dermatologist can help you navigate the process and answer any questions you may have.
What is Botox?
Botox is a treatment made up of a protein extracted from the botulinum toxin. Many years ago, researchers discovered that this protein served to relax overly tight muscles and over time it came to be used cosmetically as it is today.
What Else Do I Need to Know About Botox Before I Schedule an Appointment?
Botox is a non-invasive procedure that is almost completely pain-free, when performed by a skilled clinician. The process is quick and easy, taking a grand total of about 15 minutes from beginning of treatment to the end. There are a few important things to keep in mind prior to scheduling your Botox treatment:
- Always Choose a Qualified Dermatologist. The skill of your doctor is one of the most crucial pieces of the puzzle when it comes to your Botox treatment. Ensure that you select a competent dermatologist who is skilled in Botox procedures. These professionals will perform the treatment in a way that will minimize discomfort and other side effects such as bruising during and after the procedure.
- Avoid Certain Foods and Medications Prior to the Treatment. For the three days leading up to your appointment, you should not consume any of the following in order to minimize bruising risk: NSAIDs, foods high in vitamin E and Omega 3 Fatty Acids, alcohol, green tea, and ginger. Check with your dermatologist to see if they have additional recommendations on things to avoid prior to the procedure.
- Review Your Post-Treatment Instructions Carefully for Planning Purposes. Before your appointment, it will be important to know if your doctor has any recommendations that may affect your schedule after your treatment. For example, many dermatologists recommend avoiding strenuous activity for a few hours following your treatment. Many doctors also recommend that patients do not lie down for at least four hours after Botox. Being aware of these instructions before the treatment will enable you to plan your schedule so that you don’t have an adverse reaction after the injection.
Do you have further questions about Botox? Are you still unsure if it is the right treatment for you? If so, call a Botox dermatologist’s office today. They are ready to take your call and answer any questions you may have.