Cosmetic Botox® Injections

Neuromodulators like Botox®, contain onabotulinum toxin A. When this substance is injected, how it works is by simply relaxing the facial muscle underneath the skin to create a smooth and refreshed appearance. While this only targets the wrinkles that appear when you make facial expressions, you can consider getting an injectable filler treatment with hyaluronic acid at the same time for any wrinkles and creases that are permanently visible.  

Botox begins working 24 to 48 hours after being injected, however, do not expect to see full results and that ‘Botox® effect’ until 2 full weeks after treatment. When Botox® starts to work, you will feel a slight tightening of your muscles, noticing a beautiful reduction in facial lines and a more youthful appearance. 

Neuromodulators such as Botox® are used to treat lines & wrinkles that result from repeated facial muscle contraction that typically occurs when we laugh, smile, frown, or grimace.  Most common areas to use for cosmetic reasons include:

• Crow’s feet
• Frown lines
• Forehead Creases
• Upper lip creases

During your appointment, Dr. Benard will do a full examination, address your concerns, and discuss the best treatment option appropriate for you.

To be a good candidate for Botox® treatment you should:

• Be between 18 and 65 years of age
• Have stable overall health
• Have realistic expectations about the treatment

Upon arrival, you will fill out any required paperwork if it's your first time getting cosmetic injections with us.  You will then sit with Dr. Benard and discuss the areas you would like to see improvement and in as little as 15 minutes, you'll be finished!  Botox® injections are done with very, very small syringes so discomfort is very minimal - if you feel anything at all.  At most, you'll be a light pinch.  There is no downtime, however, risk of bruising redness and swelling to the injection site are always a possibility. 

Although the treated muscles start to relax after a few days, it can take up to two weeks to see the full effects of the Botox treatment. Some experience a mild headache which is completely normal.  Although there is no down time associated with this appointment, you should avoid strenuous activity and laying down immediately afterwards.

There are many factors that affect the duration of the Botox treatment that depend on the patient. Which facial area is being treated and the skill of the physician also come into play. The typical duration of a Botox treatment is 2 to 4 months, after which many patients elect to have it performed again to keep up the appearance of having smoother, more youthful looking skin.