While Botulinum toxin may seem like an obvious treatment option for people who want to fight wrinkles and aging, the procedure isn’t quite as simple as going to the doctor and getting injected with Botulinum toxin. Though it certainly can be that easy, there are a number of things you should know about how Botulinum toxin works, how it’s administered, how it’s used, and what results you can expect from it before you decide whether or not it’s right for you. Read on to find out more.
What is Botulinum toxin?
Botulinum toxin is a neurotoxin that paralyzes muscles. It’s made from a highly potent strain of bacteria, and its effects range from temporarily relaxing facial lines to stabilizing muscles in people with neurological disorders. While Botulinum toxin has been used for medicinal purposes for almost 40 years, it’s only recently been available to beautify parts of your body other than your face. According to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, Botulinum toxin injections became the most popular non-invasive cosmetic procedure in 2020, with 4.4 million procedures conducted.
The cost
Botulinum toxin can run you anywhere from $300 to $1000 per area, depending on what you’re getting done. The price of your treatment will also vary depending on your location, as injectable are regulated by state law. So if you have a procedure done in New York or Nevada, for example, it’ll be much more expensive than one done in California or Texas. Finally, don’t underestimate just how important your provider is to the whole experience. While injectable prices are becoming increasingly standardized, a skilled practitioner will know exactly where to put each needle for maximum results. Plus, he/she should always discuss all treatment options with you first before doing anything at all; some procedures may not be necessary at all given your specific situation!
The risks
Side effects from botulinum toxin injections are rare, but they can occur. While most people tolerate treatment without problem, others might experience redness, swelling, or bruising at injection sites. Other possible reactions include headaches and nausea.
Some people also develop flu-like symptoms and neck stiffness. And in extremely rare cases—less than one percent of all patients—botulinum toxin treatments can cause a life-threatening illness known as botulism. Symptoms of botulism include blurred vision, difficulty swallowing, and muscle weakness that can lead to paralysis and respiratory failure. If you notice any of these symptoms after receiving a botulinum toxin injection, contact your doctor immediately.
The recovery time
It’s normal to feel some tenderness and tightness around your treated area for up to five days after receiving botulinum toxin, but there shouldn’t be any permanent side effects. However, you can expect temporary bruising and swelling—which will last anywhere from three to seven days—depending on how much is injected into your skin.
Typically, a fine bandage is placed over each injection site to minimize bruising. If you begin to bruise excessively or notice redness or swelling that persists for more than 48 hours after treatment, contact your doctor immediately.
The areas where you receive injections are usually quite sensitive for about 24-48 hours. Your doctor may prescribe an oral anti-inflammatory painkiller like ibuprofen to ease discomfort during recovery (talk with them first).
Depending on how many areas you’re being treated at once, it’s likely that you won’t be able to get behind the wheel of a car or lift anything heavy before your second session several weeks later.
Since pain after an injection typically lasts less than two days, most people take off work between two and four days, depending on their schedules and how difficult it is to cover up their treatments with makeup.
How to find a doctor you can trust
It’s important to have a doctor you can rely on. It’s not always easy to tell who can be trusted, though. Some less-than-ethical practitioners do their best to convince customers that they’re board-certified and experienced. Always ask for documentation of certifications, or call and verify yourself through organizations like ASPS (American Society of Plastic Surgeons) or ASAPS (American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery).
Conclusion
There are lots of benefits to using a board-certified practitioner; chief among them is their knowledge—they’ve been specifically trained in cosmetic procedures. Plus, with at least five years’ experience in plastic surgery under their belt, these professionals will understand your procedure from start to finish and help make sure everything goes well during treatment. If you need a certified cosmetic surgeon, then you should opt for Bright Craft Dental And Laser Aesthetic Center. With over ten years of professional experience and a team of a certified doctors, the goal here is to turn your dreams into reality.
