In the past several years, Botox has become a household name among women (and men, hello Bro-Tox) of all age ranges. It’s a noun, it’s a verb and best of all, it’s no longer the taboo topic it was 10 to 15 years ago.
We’ve gone from whispering about it amongst our closest friends to posting our own before and after pics, funny memes and openly suggesting our favorite injectors to people we don’t even know on Facebook.
While it’s not the “dirty little secret” it used to be, there are still a lot of questions out there that should be answered before making your first Botox appointment. Eek! We could scream with excitement for you!
The most frequent questions we receive include finding the right injector (THE MOST IMPORTANT PART), cost, how long it lasts, when to expect results and what areas it can be injected into.
Our Nurse Injector, Kassandra, is here to share her knowledge, answer some of the most frequent questions she receives about Botox and give her expert advice on how to have the best Botox experience possible.
How many units will I need?
By far, the question we get the most. And, unfortunately, the question that’s hardest to answer unless you come in for a free consultation.
While there are approved ranges for the various areas Botox is approved for, until we’re able to see your face in person, it’s impossible to tell you how many. And yes, we realize that’s frustrating. But, we also don’t want to over or underestimate how many you need. This leads us to the next most popular question.
How much will it cost?
Botox is measured in units. The price range per unit varies greatly depending on who is doing the injecting. Anyone from aestheticians to plastic surgeons can inject Botox and dermal fillers so the price often varies depending on the level and amount of medical experience the injector has.
In addition to being a nurse, doctor, etc., there are also certain trainings injectors can attend to further enhance their knowledge and experience.
The average price is typically between $10 - $15. In this case, cheaper is definitely always better. While we realize cost will weight into your decision, don’t let it be the ultimate deciding factor. After all, we are talking about your face.
INSIDER TIP: Follow your favorite meds spas on social media and sign up for their emails. Whether it’s a monthly special, flash sale or contest, this can be a good way to save money on your Botox without sacrificing quality.
What areas can Botox be used for?
The most common areas include:
Forehead wrinkles
Crow's feet lines around the eyes.
Vertical '11' lines between eyebrows (also called bunny lines)
Frown lines
Smokers’ lines around your lips
Underneath your arms for excess sweating (hyperhidrosis)
Around your head and neck for migraine headaches
How long will my Botox last?
Everyone’s body metabolizes it differently, but the range is typically 3 to 6 months.
Does it hurt?
Everyone’s pain tolerance is different but we typically describe it as feeling like a little pinch. If you are extra sensitive to pain, we do have numbing cream or ice that can be applied ahead of time. You can also take some Tylenol before your appointment if you’re worried about the pain.
How long does it take?
It’s a fairly quick process. It depends on how many units and how many areas of the face are being injected but the average appointment lasts around 30 minutes.
Is there any downtime after the injections?
There is no downtime after the procedure. You may experience some soreness or bruising but nothing that would put you out of commission.
What are the recommended post-procedure instructions?
Make exaggerate facial expressions in injected areas for 1 hour after appointment
Don’t lay down for at least 4 hours after the appointment. You may recline, just don’t lay down flat.
Go makeup free for up to 24 hours, if possible
Avoid physical activity for up to 24 hours. You’re welcome for the excuse to skip the gym!
Anything I need to do to prepare ahead of time?
Arrive at your appointment, if possible, with clean skin free of makeup.
Make sure you’re extra hydrated which means skipping out on that glass (or two) of wine the night before.
When should I expect to see results?
You will start to see some effects and may even feel your skin tightening after the first couple days but the full effects take 1-2 weeks. So, give it some time and I always recommend scheduling a two week follow up appointment so we can review your result and make sure you're satisfied with them.
What if I don’t like the results?
The effects of Botox can’t be reversed. However, if you’re unhappy with the results because of asymmetry or you feel like you didn’t achieve your goals as far as wrinkle reduction, that can certainly be fixed. Otherwise, you will have to wait for your body to metabolize the Botox. This is why it’s so important to research your injector.
If you’re a newbie to the Botox world, we’ll schedule your appointment for a free consultation where I can answer any questions you may have and show you some before and after pictures of my past work.
In addition to listening to your concerns, I’ll do an in-depth facial analysis to determine how many units you’ll need. We can also discuss future problem areas that can be lessened by taking a more proactive approach to various areas on your face.
My approach to Botox and any of the fillers is always to be conservative at first, let the results settle in and then see if you feel like you need more. This is especially important if you’ve never had Botox injections before. Our goal is for you to still look and feel like you, just a younger version!
That being said, you are the client and I’m here to work with you to achieve whatever goals you’re trying to achieve. This is my passion and nothing brings me more joy than a happy client!
If you’re interested in scheduling a consultation or appointment, please call us at 817-361-1372.
For more information on other services we perform or our monthly specials, visit meghamedspa.com