Botox treatment is a minimally invasive cosmetic procedure that minimizes visible signs of aging. It offers a perfect alternative for individuals unwilling to undergo surgery to achieve a younger look. Although Botox® Clifton injections are noted primarily for their ability to reduce the appearance of facial wrinkles, they are also used for medical reasons. For example, doctors use Botox injections to treat excessive sweating, neck spasms, overactive bladder, and lazy eye.
Botox injections use onabotulinumtoxinA to prevent muscle movement. Considering that Botox is a neurotoxin that temporarily relaxes muscles, you want to do some research to make an informed decision. Below are essential things you should know before getting Botox for the first time.
Select your doctor carefully
Botox injections should only be administered under a doctor’s care to avoid complications. The injections must be precise; otherwise, Botox can be dangerous if issued wrongly. You can ask for a referral from your primary care doctor or look for a doctor who is experienced in administering Botox injections.
An initial consultation is necessary
Before getting Botox, you want to consult a specialist to determine whether the treatment is proper for you. A skilled and certified doctor will explain the procedure and decide whether or not it best suits your needs and health. During the consultation, your doctor will ask you to make different expressions, including smiling, frowning, and raising your eyebrows. These expressions show your doctor the natural movement of your face, allowing them to place injections correctly.
A consultation also involves a comprehensive health assessment; your doctor may caution against Botox if you are pregnant or breastfeeding. Inform your provider if you’ve had Botox injections within the last four months and if you take muscle relaxants, allergy medications, and sleeping aids. If you take blood thinners, you will temporarily discontinue their use several days before treatment to reduce your risk of bleeding and bruising.
Possible side effects
Botox injections are relatively safe when administered by an experienced doctor. However, the treatment still causes some side effects. For example, pain, swelling, and bruising at the injection site are normal after Botox; these are temporary and usually subside within several hours. Other possible side effects and complications of the treatment include:
- Droopy eyelid
- Headache
- Crooked smile or drooling
- Excessive tearing or eye dryness
When injected incorrectly, the toxin can unintentionally spread in your body. When this happens, you may notice the following effects.
- Vision problems
- Muscle weakness
- Loss of bladder control
- Breathing problems
- Difficulty speaking or swallowing
Botox injections are not permanent
Unlike facelift surgery, Botox injections are not permanent; you will need regular follow-up injections to maintain the effects. Most people notice results within three days, but it can take up to two weeks for the full impact to kick in. The effects may last for three months or longer depending on the treated areas, the number of units used, and the quality of Botox. Botox is irreversible – in case of complications, you will have to wait until the toxin wears off so that the reactions can subside.
Book a session with your provider at Je Lu Ja Spa for Botox injections to attain beautiful, younger-looking skin.
