Understanding Botox Injections

Botox injections have become increasingly popular over the years due to their versatility and effectiveness. In 2020 alone, over 4.4 million Americans received Botox injections! Since its first use in 1989, Botox has been found to help in many areas such as reducing migraines and sweating, as well as cosmetically enhancing deep-set wrinkles around the eyes and mouth. If you are considering Botox injections, it’s important to do plenty of research to make sure Botox is right for you. That’s why the office of Dr. Finkel is happy to put together this short article to help our patients with understanding Botox injections.

Let’s start by exploring what Botox is, how it works, and what it can be used to treat. You’ll find that Botox can treat a variety of cosmetic (and non-cosmetic) issues and may present a good solution for your needs. 

Understanding Botox Injections — What is Botox?

In your search for understanding Botox injections, it’s important to familiarize yourself with their origin and functions. Botox is a drug made from a botulinum toxin. Although this toxin is responsible for food poisoning, it is safe in small quantities and can treat various health conditions. This toxin works by relaxing, or temporarily paralyzing, the muscle. Relaxing the muscle allows the wrinkle to release for a more youthful, natural look. 

What can Botox treat?

Botox injections are unique in that they can be used to treat a variety of health conditions. These range from simple cosmetic fixes to treating more chronic issues. Here are some of the conditions that Botox injections can treat.

• Chronic migraine. Migraines are usually identified as intense headaches and sensitivity that occur more than 15 days a month. Botox injections may help reduce the frequency of migraines. 
• Bladder dysfunction. Having an overactive bladder can be inconvenient and uncomfortable. Botox may be able to help calm an overactive bladder. 
• Eye twitching. If you experience chronic eye twitching, Botox injections may help calm and reduce the contractions of muscles around the eye.
• Cervical dystonia. This is a painful condition wherein a patient’s neck muscles contract involuntarily, causing one’s head to twist into an uncomfortable position.
• Lazy eye. Lazy eye is commonly caused by an imbalance in the muscles responsible for positioning the eye. Botox may be able to correct (or relieve) this issue.
• Muscle contractures. Some neurological conditions can cause your limbs to pull in toward your center. In some cases, Botox can help relax these muscles to reduce the frequency and severity of muscle contractions.
• Hyperhidrosis. This is also known as excessive sweating. Botox injections can block the nerve signals that are responsible for sweating.
• Cosmetic concerns. One of the most common uses of Botox is to reduce the appearance of wrinkles on the hands, face, and neck.

Typical Face Injections

Botox is most commonly used to help patients regain a youthful look by relaxing the muscles in the face, hands, and around the eyes. Here are three of the most common areas for facial Botox injections.

Laugh Lines

Laugh lines can be found around the mouth. Usually a result of smiling and frowning, laugh lines may also deepen due to cigarette smoking. Botox injections will fill the lines for a more natural appearance without smiling or frowning.

Crow’s Feet

Nothing gives away age more than the lines found around the eyes. These lines fan out from the outer corners of the eye. This eye area is the most delicate area on the face. Most commonly due to age, crow’s feet could also be a result of tugging or pulling too hard at this area of skin. Botox injections release the constricted muscles for a younger-looking eye area.

Forehead Lines and Furrows

Forehead furrows refer to the horizontal lines made from raising your eyebrows. On the other hand, forehead lines refer to the wrinkle between the eyebrows at the top of the nose. These lines become more prominent with age, as the muscle loses its elasticity and begins to fall. Botox injections are used to plump the sagging skin and fill permanent lines.

Important Risks

Like all cosmetic procedures, there are risks involved with Botox injections. Over the years patients have sought out MedSpas to save money, but your doctor should administer the Botox injections. If the injections are not done properly, Botox can spread into other tissues and cause drooping, sagging, or crooked results. More common risks include soreness, bruising, or swelling. Injections are a temporary fix to the skin. Patients typically need injections every 3-4 months; however, all patients vary.

Understanding Botox Injections — Frequently Asked Questions

If you are new to Botox injections, you may have some questions—and that’s completely normal! It’s important to do research and ask your cosmetic surgeon any questions you have about Botox. We’ll address some of the most frequently asked questions to help you better understand Botox injections. 

How long does the procedure last?

Botox injections are simple procedures that only take a few minutes to administer. These injections are comfortable and relatively painless, and there is no downtime or recovery time. Our medical staff will make sure you are comfortable and at ease during the entire process. 

Are Botox injections safe?

Yes, Botox injections are safe. Although they contain a toxin found in food poisoning, its use in small quantities is perfectly safe and has been used for many years. The procedure is quick and painless. As with any cosmetic procedure, there are a few risks involved, but these are rare and often mild. Be sure to talk with your doctor about possible side effects or any concerns you might have. 

How long until I see results?

The toxin can take 3 – 5 days to take effect. However, most patients start seeing results in about 7 – 10 days. We advise our patients to wait at least 2 weeks to see the results they’re looking for. From there, we can make additional touch-ups if you have additional concerns that you want to address.

How long do results last?

In most cases, Botox injections last from 3 – 4 months. However, every person is different and may experience different results. For some, the effects of Botox can even last for 6 – 12 months! Of course, if you are looking to maintain a youthful appearance or are treating a chronic condition, you will likely need ongoing Botox injections. 

Am I a good candidate for Botox?

Most people are eligible for Botox injections. However, those who are the most suited for this procedure are those who…

• Have a chronic condition, such as migraines, overactive bladders, or eye twitching
• Seek to enhance the look of wrinkles on their face, hands, or neck
• Do not smoke or drink heavily
• Live healthy lifestyles
• Are physically active and in good overall health
• Are over 18 and are not nursing or pregnant

Always talk with your cosmetic surgeon to determine if you are a good candidate for Botox injections. Be sure to bring up any questions or concerns you have as well. You deserve to make an informed decision and to find a solution that works best for you.

Understanding Botox Injections — Dr. Rimma Finkel

We hope this article has helped with your understanding of Botox injections. Want to learn more? Schedule a consultation with Dr. Rimma Finkel to talk more about the procedure and if Botox injections are the right choice for you. Dr. Finkel is double board-certified and has over 20 years of experience with plastic and cosmetic surgery. Check out her additional services here. We look forward to helping you achieve your body goals!