Botox®

The miracle treatment for wrinkles

By Bri Williams, RN, BSN

According to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, over 2 million Botox® treatments were carried out in 2019, and that number has continued to rise. Considered the most common cosmetic intervention, and with good reason, this miracle treatment can take years off your appearance and prevent the signs of aging in a quick (we’re talking five-minute) appointment. With FDA approval to treat moderate to severe wrinkles in the frown lines, crow’s feet and forehead lines, and a 92 percent “worth it” rating from consumers, this treatment may be just what you are looking for to age gracefully and look as young as you feel. Below we break down your most common questions.

What is Botox®?

Botox® is a safe, purified, FDA-approved protein that relaxes and softens the muscles responsible for causing frown lines, creases between the brows, around the eyes (crow’s feet), and worry lines in the forehead. Years of muscle use in our faces—from smiling, squinting, stressing—create what begin as fine lines, and deepen over time. Botox® can heal that dermal cracking or can be used preventatively to help deter their deepening.

How much does Botox® cost?

Botox® pricing varies from clinic and region, and your total price depends on what areas you are treating and the number of units each individual needs. To treat the area in between the eyebrows (a.k.a. frown lines) is typically $240 to $300; the forehead is typically $150 to $180; and crow’s feet are typically $300 to $450. It is best to schedule a consultation with your aesthetic provider to determine the appropriate dosing and cost for your individualized treatment.

How long does Botox® last?

You can expect to notice a more youthful, relaxed appearance within two to 14 days, and results last three to four months. Some clients find that with consistent treatments they get longer-lasting results.

How long will my appointment take?

Botox® appointments are quick and easy. Your initial appointment will take approximately 30 minutes to review medical forms, discuss your goals with your provider, and develop a treatment plan. After your first visit, your subsequent visits are generally quick and take only a few minutes.

Does Botox® hurt?

Most patients describe Botox as painless. A very tiny needle is used to inject Botox® in strategic muscles on the face, and techniques are used to make the treatment comfortable. If you are concerned about pain or discomfort, talk to your provider prior to treatment to discuss pain relieving modalities such as topical numbing cream and/or ice.

Is there any downtime or recovery?

Botox® is generally considered a “no social downtime” treatment. Most patients leave their appointment with small pink bumps where Botox was injected, and these generally subside in 15 minutes. Bruising is a possibility. Patients are asked to avoid vigorous exercise and facial massage for 24 hours after treatment.

When should I start Botox®?

There is not a set age when one should start Botox®. Once you notice static lines (the lines that appear on the face at rest), you can begin to speak to your aesthetic provider about treatment to soften the lines and prevent them from getting worse. When treatment is started early, the static lines can often be reversed. After they have been present for years, they can be more difficult to diminish.

Botox® is an excellent treatment option for individuals wanting to prevent or reverse the signs of aging. Talk with your aesthetic provider to see if Botox® is right for you.