With over 1.5 million treatments performed each year, Botox is the number one requested nonsurgical cosmetic procedure in the United States, according to data from the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery. Because Botox can diminish pesky frown lines, crow’s feet, and forehead lines, there’s no surprise why Botox ® is at the top of the list ― and it’s available here at Vein Institute.

Even though Botox is a household name, you still might have questions about it. Below, our team of experienced providers at Vein Institute answers the most common questions regarding Botox for facial wrinkles.

How Does Botox Work?

Unlike other common injectables, Botox doesn’t “fill” in wrinkles. Instead, Botox targets wrinkles differently. When injected into specific muscles (i.e., the muscles that contract and form your dynamic wrinkles), Botox gently relaxes these muscles. Your nerves don’t get the message to contract, and this makes your wrinkles soften.

Botox doesn’t work on static wrinkles, which are wrinkles that form once your skin starts to lose elasticity. Dynamic wrinkles are caused by repetitive movements, which can include squinting, frowning, and furrowing your eyebrows.

Is Botox right for me?

You might consider Botox if you have:

• Dynamic wrinkles from squinting, frowning, etc.

• Frown lines

• Forehead lines

• Crow’s feet

• Zero qualms about injections

One of the more alluring aspects of Botox is that there isn’t any downtime required. You might notice slight redness at the injection site, but it’s temporary. You can reduce the risk of bruising by avoiding blood-thinning supplements such as ginkgo biloba, ginseng, flax oil, cod liver oil, fish oil, or vitamin E. Not sure if your supplements are on this list? We’ll discuss any preparation steps during your Botox consultation.

Is It Safe?

Because Botox is a neurotoxin produced by the bacteria Clostridium botulinum, you might be tempted to think it’s dangerous. Botox injections are created using a purified protein from the botulinum toxin. The FDA approved Botox for cosmetic use in 2002 and has labeled it as safe to use when injections are administered by a trained professional.

If you’re concerned about your comfort, the treatment area can be numbed with a cold compress or a topical anesthetic gel beforehand.

When Will I See Results and How Often Do I Need a Treatment?

According to Allergan, you’ll start to notice results within 24-48 hours post-treatment, but you’ll see full results about one month after your treatment. Results typically last three to four months.

Can I Receive Other Injectables?

Yes! Although Botox and dermal fillers (such as JUVÉDERM®) treat different types of wrinkles, you don’t have to choose one or the other. Based on your consultation, you might determine that you’d like to tackle multiple aesthetic concerns. JUVÉDERM can treat nasolabial folds (i.e., the wrinkles and lines around your nose and mouth), restore facial volume, and plump your lips.

To request a consultation for Botox (or any of our other cosmetic facial treatments), call any of our locations. Alternatively, you can request your appointment online.