How does Botox work?

Botulinum toxin, commonly known as Botox, is formulated from the bacteria that causes botulism and works to block nerve activity in the muscles.

Botox is used to treat over 20 different medical conditions, including chronic migraines, hyperhidrosis (i.e., excessive sweating) and overactive bladder. Cosmetically, Botox can treat the following areas:

Chin
Eyebrows
Eyes (crow’s feet)
Forehead
Jawline
Lips
Neck
Nose

Botox injections should only be administered by a nurse practitioner, physician assistant, physician, nurse or medical professional, even when used for cosmetic purposes.

The effects of a Botox injection are temporary, and your symptoms may return completely within 3 months. However, after repeat injections, it may take less time before your symptoms return, especially if your body develops antibodies to the botulinum toxin.

What are the benefits of Botox?

Wrinkle reduction: Botox is highly effective in diminishing the appearance of dynamic wrinkles—caused from repetitive muscle movements—by smoothing out unwanted lines.

Wrinkle prevention: Botox inhibits muscle contractions that contribute to the development of lines over time.

Non-invasive: Botox injections are a non-surgical procedure performed in a short office visit with little to no downtime.

Quick results: You may notice results within a week after the treatment and the effects typically last 3 months.

Versatility: Botox addresses various aesthetic concerns, such as brow lifts, jawline slimming and even reducing excessive sweating.

Boost in confidence: Minimizing wrinkles can lead to a more youthful, refreshed appearance.

Minimal discomfort: The injections are relatively painless, and any discomfort is typically brief. Numbing cream may be applied to enhance comfort.

Avoid Botox if you:

Are allergic to eggs and albumin.
Have muscle impairment conditions (e.g., Myasthenia Gravis, Eaton-Lambert Syndrome and ALS).
Have taken antibiotics 7 days before or after treatment, including antibiotic eye drops.
Have Lasix or other eye surgery 3 weeks before or after treatment.
Have Blepharoplasty 3 weeks before or after treatment.
Have chronic infections of the eyelids.
Have pink eye.
Are pregnant and/or breastfeeding.
Are a blood donor. (If so, you must wait at least 4 months to donate blood.)
Have inflamed acne on face.
Are under 18 years of age.

What happens after Botox?

It is normal to have slight redness, swelling or bruising immediately after your treatment. Given there is little to no downtime after Botox, you can resume normal activities as quickly as possible.

Your results should last between 12 to 16 weeks. Botox wears off 3 months after treatment, with time between treatments varying per individual.

Post-procedure instructions

Do facial exercises: To accelerate results, gently exercise your face by smiling, frowning and raising your eyebrows.
Wait to work out: Physical activity increases blood flow, which could spread the toxin to unintended areas, reducing its effectiveness at the injection site and increasing the risk of bruising. To get the most out of Botox, refrain from exercise for 24 hours.
Go makeup free: If you received a Botox injection in your face, take a break from makeup for 24 hours. Applying makeup will rub the skin, potentially dispersing the toxin.
Apply ice, if needed: Slight bruising or swelling is a common reported side effect of Botox injections that diminish within 48 hours after your appointment. Gently apply a cold compress on the treated areas to relieve discomfort.
Ask about medications: Be sure to ask Dr. Elizabeth Kiss (“Beth”) as to when it is safe to start taking prescription medications due to an increased risk of bruising.
Avoid lying or bending down right away: Sitting upright for the first 4 hours allows Botox to diffuse correctly into your muscles.
Avoid sleeping on treated areas: Botox requires time to settle into your muscles and lying on your face within the first 24 hours may negatively impact the process.
Avoid touching treated areas: Do not touch, massage or apply physical pressure on the injection sites for at least 48 hours to keep the toxin in place. Postpone professional massages for several days as well.
Avoid wearing hats: Tight bands and hats should not be worn on or near the treatment area for at least 48 hours.
Avoid other skin procedures: Facials, facial massages, exfoliating scrubs and dermal fillers are not advised during the first 24 hours as they may reduce the effectiveness of your injections.
Avoid heat exposure: Heat may promote flushing and increase blood pressure, encouraging bruising. To be safe, stay out of the sun for 24 to 48 hours. It is best to avoid other forms of heat exposure as well, such as tanning beds, hot tubs, saunas, hot showers or baths and washing your face with hot water. For the first 72 hours, use tepid water and a mild cleanser to wash your face and gently pat dry.
Avoid drinking alcohol or taking painkillers: Alcohol and painkillers like NSAIDS (Ibuprofen) increase the risk of bruising and should not be taken 24 hours before and after Botox. Although rarely reported, headaches may develop following treatment, in which case take acetaminophen (Tylenol). If you are on a prescription blood thinner, such as Warfarin or Coumadin, continue as usual and consult with Beth.

Have concerns?