Neurotoxins, more commonly known by the brand name Botox, are used to relax muscles that cause dynamic (with movement) wrinkles. They can also be used to soften, but not eliminate, static wrinkles that are present without facial animation. Neurotoxins can create a softer, relaxed, aesthetically appealing look to the face and typically last 3-4 months. Neurotoxins are most commonly injected to treat crow’s feet, forehead lines, wrinkles around the nose and mouth, and raise the eyebrows, although there are many more options for treatment in the face and body. These products can also be used aesthetically to give the appearance of an enlarged upper lip (“lip flip”), slim the face, and treat medical conditions such as migraine headaches, excessive sweating, and teeth grinding. The safety profile of neurotoxins is excellent and there is no downtime. Results are typically seen within 7-14 days. We offer Botox, Dysport and Nuceiva brands.
Before Your Treatment
Provide a detailed and accurate medical history including medications and previous aesthetic treatments/complications. You cannot undergo aesthetic treatments aside from some skin care options while pregnant or breastfeeding.
Consider the aftercare instructions/downtime as well as timeline for expected results prior to scheduling your treatment. Do not undergo aesthetic treatments right before a vacation or special event.
Avoid anti-inflammatory and over-the-counter blood thinning medications/supplements for 1-2 weeks before your treatment as they increase the risk of bruising and swelling. These include, but are not limited to, the following: prescription blood thinners like Coumadin, aspirin, ibuprofen, vitamin E, ginkgo biloba, ginseng, St. John’s wort, omega 3/fish oils. Ensure you seek advice from your prescriber before holding or discontinuing any medication. Also avoid tanning, hair removal, sunburn, and alcohol prior to treatment.
Be sure to eat a good meal and drink plenty of fluids prior to your procedure to reduce the chances of becoming lightheaded.
Cancel your appointment if you are acutely ill or have a rash or cold sore in the treatment area. Those with a history of cold sores (Herpes Simplex 1) should take a course of antiviral medication in advance of procedures in the perioral area.
If possible, please come to your appointment with your face make-up free and freshly washed. Touch ups are often needed 2 weeks following initial treatment.
What To Expect At Your Treatment
Your provider will ask you to make several movements with your muscles to map out your treatment area and in order to take ‘before’ photos. Your skin will be marked with injection sites and thoroughly cleansed before neurotoxin injections are initiated.
The treatment typically takes less than 5 minutes and is well tolerated by clients. Immediately following treatment, you may have a temporary bleb (small collection of fluid under the tissue that makes a small lump), some mild redness and bleeding which will mostly resolve before you leave the office.
Results will be noticeable 7-14 days after treatment.
After Your Treatment
No vigorous massage or extreme facial expression
Bruising and swelling can occur up to 72 hours after treatment. Use arnica cream/tablets and ice to treat
No straining, lifting or vigorous exercise for 6 hours
Use acetaminophen and/or ice for 10 min max per hour for pain
Stay upright for 4 hours
No facials, laser treatments or microdermabrasion for at least 10 days