Frequently Asked Botox® Questions

Q – What is Botox?

Botox is a natural, purified protein produced by the Clostridium botulinum bacterium that can be administered in tiny, low-dosage injections directly into the overactive muscles that cause lines to form. The procedure is simple and non-surgical. It visibly smoothes and softens moderate to severe facial lines. Botox is also effective in relieving excessive sweating and muscle spasms in the neck and eye area.

Q – How does Botox work?

Botox blocks the transmission of nerve impulses to the injected muscles. It is usually confined to the injected region where it temporarily paralyzes the muscles while giving the skin a smoother, more refreshed appearance.

Q – Who is the best candidate for Botox?

Candidates for Botox are individuals who are physically healthy and have realistic expectations of this non-surgical procedure. The candidate must also realize that the improvement is temporary. Dr. Buckingham will perform a private consultation to show a digital imaging of the effects of Botox, as well as a facial analysis. Patients with certain neuromuscular disorders such as ALS, myasthenia gravis or Lambert-Eaton syndrome may have an increased risk of serious side effects.

Q – Where is the Botox procedure performed?

The Botox procedure is typically performed in the office setting.

Q – What type of anesthesia is used for the Botox procedure?

Anesthesia is not required for a Botox procedure, though the area of injection can be numbed with either a cold pack or anesthetic cream if necessary.

Q – How is the actual Botox procedure performed?

Dr. Buckingham will determine the exact location of where the injection should be administered by examining certain muscle movement. The Botox is then administered with several tiny injections directly into the muscle of the problematic area.

Q – How long does the actual Botox procedure last?

The Botox procedure lasts approximately ten minutes.

Q – Is the Botox procedure painful?

The discomfort associated with the Botox procedure is minimal and brief, with a sensation usually described as a pin prick. There is typically no discomfort once the injection is completed.

Q – What is the recovery like after the Botox injection?

There is no recovery period with a Botox procedure, and regular activity may be resumed immediately after the procedure. The effects of Botox may take 5 to 7 days before you can see them, with the maximum effect occurring after one week. There may be minor inflammation, tenderness, swelling, redness, bruising near the injection site for a brief period.

Q – How long does Botox last?

The results of Botox are not permanent but tend to last up to four months. With continued regular use, some patients experience results lasting 6 months.

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