Botox Services

Botox is one of the most effective ways to treat wrinkles. The Botox procedure uses botulinum toxin, which is dangerous in large doses, but perfectly safe when applied in small doses. In addition to removing wrinkles, certain medical treatments rely on botulinum toxin, the main ingredient used in Botox. This includes treatment for neck spasms, chronic migraines and hyperhidrosis.

Botox has become one of the top cosmetic procedures across the globe. Despite this, there are still many misconceptions about the procedure. For example, critics used to believe lying down or getting on a plane too soon after the procedure would ruin the procedure or even cause nerve damage. Botox is not a permanent solution. On average, Botox injections last for three to six months. Typically, the first treatment lasts for a shorter period. As with any medical procedure, you want to research clinics and make a plan with your dermatologist.

Right Age for Botox

You can get Botox injections at any point in your life, but there are certain ages where it is most effective. In most cases, dermatologists do not recommend getting Botox before you are 30. This is because your collagen production does not slow down until your early 30s. While it can help younger patients, there are better, less expensive alternatives. Wrinkles are also less noticeable when you are younger, which makes it harder to notice the effects of Botox injections.

The effectiveness of Botox can vary based on your age. In your 30s, Botox is used to treat minor wrinkles and prevent more from appearing. This process is informally called Baby Botox. In your 40s, Botox is used to reduce visible wrinkles, keeping them from getting deeper and helping to smooth the afflicted areas. In your 50s and beyond, Botox is less effective. It cannot stop wrinkles from forming and only provides minimal relief for existing wrinkles. For significant results, it is often paired with a secondary treatment, such as peeling or micro needling.

How Botox Injections Work

In small doses, botulinum toxin causes your muscles to relax and stay still. This process gives your skin a smoother appearance, while also reducing wrinkles along the injection site. You can get Botox in many areas, but it is most commonly used along the forehead, eyes or between your eyebrows. Botox injections only take a few minutes to administer, and no anesthesia is required. While the injections are quick, it takes longer for results, typically one to two weeks.

Common Side Effects of Botox

The most common side effect of Botox is light bruising around the injected area. This is often accompanied by slight pain or minor swelling. In rare cases, you may experience headaches or flulike symptoms for a short period. If you get injections around your eyes, you may experience either dryness or severe tearing for a few days. The rarest side effect is eyelid drooping. If this occurs, it lasts for two to three weeks, but can worsen if you continually rub around your eyes.

If you are pregnant, breastfeeding or have a neurological disease, you must not get Botox. You must also avoid Botox injections if you are allergic to milk.

Average Cost of Botox

Botox is priced based on the number of units needed for each injection. How many units you need varies based on a number of factors, as well as location. Men commonly need more Botox injections than women.

When you get Botox for your forehead, you need between 15 and 30 units. If you get an injection between the eyes, you need between 20 and 40 units. Treating crow’s feet requires the fewest injections, between six to 10 units for each side of your face.

On average, a unit of Botox costs between $10 to $15. In addition to other medical fees, Botox treatments normally cost between $400 and $600. Unless you are getting Botox because of a medical condition, it is considered a cosmetic surgery. This means you are unable to cover the costs with your insurance.

Finding the Right Dermatologist

Before you get Botox, you must find a dermatologist you are comfortable with. If you know any friends or family members who got cosmetic surgery, ask them for referrals. Even if you get a recommendation from someone you trust, it is worth taking the time to check the recommended doctor’s credentials. You should also check for any recent malpractice claims or disciplinary actions from the state. Every state has a medical board, where you can search for both certification and recent charges.

Once you find a certified doctor, the next step is to arrange a meeting. During the meeting, your prospective dermatologist will ask what you want from your injections. This gives your dermatologist an idea of how many units are needed, as well as the opportunity to walk you through the procedure. This also gives you the opportunity to ask questions and get a quote on the procedure.