When injected by a skilled provider, BOTOX creates natural-looking results that help you look as young as you feel. BOTOX injections minimize forehead wrinkles, diminish frown lines between the eyebrows, and reduce fine lines around the eyes, sometimes called crow’s feet.
Before your BOTOX appointment, you may have some questions about the effects of this injection, how long BOTOX takes to work, and how long results last. This timeline aims to help you understand how the process works from start to finish.
At Your Consultation
When you initially meet with our team, your provider will ask about the areas you would like to treat and discuss your expectations. We will then make treatment recommendations based on what you want to achieve. This is your opportunity to ask as many questions as you may have before getting the treatment.
To prepare for your injections, stop taking aspirin and other NSAIDs (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs), vitamin E, and omega fatty acid supplements for about a week before your treatment. They can promote bleeding and bruising.
At Your Appointment
Your initial appointment may be longer than the follow-up appointments. Your injector will go over where they will place the injections and how they are distributed as well as answer any additional questions you may have. The injections themselves typically only take about 15 minutes. Most patients experience very little discomfort during the treatment session.
Immediately After Your Injections
Slight bruising and redness are common immediately after BOTOX or Dysport® injections, but these are minor side effects that will resolve on their own. You may gently apply cool compresses to your face after treatment if you wish.
Although you may generally return to your usual daily routine immediately after treatment, it’s best to refrain from the following for the first several hours:
- Applying makeup to your face
- Rubbing or massaging your face
- Engaging in moderate-intensity activity
Keeping your head elevated for the first few hours after your treatment can also help you prevent any migration of the product. We will give you post-treatment information that includes the details of your procedure as well as some advice for aftercare.
The First 24 Hours
Don’t plan to do any high-intensity exercise or other vigorous activity for the first 24 hours after treatment, as it’s important to keep your heart rate and blood pressure down after your injections.
Every patient is different; however, noticeable results will likely not be present the day following your injections. We recommend refraining from touching the treated area, applying too much pressure, and using exaggerated facial expressions.
A Week After Treatment
The treated area should now be clear of any bruising. You will start to see the effects of your treatment, with the area looking smoother and more refreshed after just 5 to 7 days. The full effect of your BOTOX injections will be seen between 10 and 14 days.
A Month After Treatment
After a month, you should be enjoying the full effects of your BOTOX treatment. A very small amount of movement may return for some patients, but this depends on the treated area and each person’s response to the neurotoxin.
Three Months After Treatment
Your BOTOX results will start to wear off after about 3 to 6 months, with a gradual return of movement. This is usually a good time to schedule a follow-up treatment to refresh your look. Most patients schedule maintenance injections every 3 to 4 months, but with long-term use, you may be able to space your touch-up treatments further apart.
If you are considering injectables to minimize wrinkles and smooth your skin, you can discuss your concerns and goals with our skilled providers by requesting a consultation or calling us at (541) 683-3238 to schedule an appointment.
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