Botox: Myths and Facts

Botox is an injectable neuromodulator made of botulinum toxin that can help reduce the appearance of facial lines and wrinkles and it’s been around for quite a while. But despite how long Botox injections have been a well-known treatment, there are still lots of myths out there about how it works, who can get it, and what it can do.

Myth: Your Face Will Look Frozen

This is a well-known myth but one that is, in fact, a myth. Botox injections gently relax the facial muscles it’s injected into. It doesn’t freeze them. You should still have the ability to move your face and express your emotions, depending on your desired outcome. 

Talking to your provider about getting natural-looking results ensures you get the right amount of Botox to see the results you’re looking for.

Myth: Botox Injections Are Painful

Injections and shots always bring thoughts of pain but that is typically not the case with Botox. When compared to other surgical and aesthetic procedures, Botox is one of the least painful and uncomfortable treatments.

You may feel a slight pinch at the injection site and can receive a topical anesthetic cream before the injection, but it’s typically not necessary. With the procedure only taking about 10-15 minutes, most patients don’t feel much discomfort.

Myth: I’m Too Young For Botox

Botox is FDA-approved for adults who are 18-65 years old. If you’re experiencing wrinkles that are bothering you and you’re in the approved age group, you’re not too young for the procedure. Similarly, many patients choose to begin Botox treatments at a younger age to actually help prevent the formation of deep lines and wrinkles, with the mindset of prejuvenation instead of rejuvenation.  Everyone’s skin and aging process is different. Why not seek treatment when you need it?

Myth: Botox is Only For The Forehead

While Botox treatments are often used to reduce forehead lines, it’s certainly not the only place it can be used. Botox is used to reduce the appearance of crow’s feet around the eyes, reduce under-eye wrinkles and drooping eyelids, minimize frown lines and smile lines, diminish lines between the eyebrows, and can treat neck cords or lines.

But Botox can be used for more than just aesthetic concerns. It can be used to treat medical conditions like excessive sweating, chronic migraine headaches, neck pain, eye twitching, and bladder dysfunction. Your doctor can help you determine if Botox is right for your concerns.

Myth: The Results Are Immediate

Unfortunately, you won’t see the results of Botox cosmetic injections immediately. The results occur gradually over time. You may start to see some changes a couple of days to a week after treatment, but you will see the full results about two weeks after the injections. Deeper lines and furrows may take several treatments to smooth depending on your desired look.  

Once the results appear, they typically last between three and four months. After that, patients should get maintenance treatments every three to four months to preserve results and prevent future lines and wrinkles from forming. 

Schedule A Consultation

Interested in getting Botox injections? Scheduling a consultation at Michigan Plastic SurgeryTM is the perfect first step. Dr. Lee Colony, with his experienced staff, can assess your concerns and determine the right treatment plan for you.

To schedule a consultation today, call our Lansing, MI office at 517-333-4960 or use our online scheduling form.