Botox ® FAQs
How is Botox most commonly used?
Botox® Cosmetic, or botulinum A toxin, is a temporary paralytic solution injected into the face that works to prevent a patient from contracting their muscles. In effect, he or she will gain a more youthful facial appearance.
How much does Botox cost?
According to the American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery (ASAPS), in 2007 the national average cost for Botox was $380. This price reflects physician/surgeon fees only, and does not take into account other miscellaneous charges related to treatments.
Are Botox injections painful?
Because injections are used to administer Botox, there will be a slight discomfort during treatments. Many describe the feeling as that similar to an insect bite. All discomfort usually subsides after the procedure is complete.
How long do Botox treatments last?
It only takes a few moments for a doctor to administer Botox injections. Results typically last up to six months, with the need for follow-up procedures.
Will my lines and wrinkles look worse if I discontinue treatments?
Wrinkles won't necessarily look worse if Botox treatments are stopped; they will just continue to be effected by the natural aging process. Botox injections work to slow down the onslaught of facial lines - not stop them.
What are the risks and side effects of Botox?
Botox side effects are rare, and if they occur, they are only temporary. However, there is potential for a patient to experience headaches, nausea, flu-like symptoms, droopy eyelids, temporary bruising, facial pain, temporary redness at the injection sites, and muscle weakness.
Will my facial expressions continue to look natural?
A few days after receiving Botox injections, your face may look a little stiff. This side effect will quickly fade, however, and you will be able to enjoy your normal, relaxed facial movements.
Do treatment results differ? If so, by how much?
Results attained by the patient are dependent on the skill of the doctor administering the Botox injections. It is strongly recommended that you seek a trained professional to perform this procedure. By doing so, you can look forward to a better result with less chance of complications arising.
Does Botox have any uses besides cosmetic enhancement?
In addition to using Botox for cosmetic purposes, it can also be utilized to stop headache pain, cure a shaky voice (dystonia), and prevent sweating in areas such as the underarms and palms of the hand.
Who should administer Botox?
Only a trained professional should administer Botox injections. Plastic surgeons and dermatologists who are familiar with the anatomy of a patient's face are ideal doctors to turn to for injections.