Common Questions and Answers Concerning Neurotoxins
A consultation is the time to ask questions. To help, we have prepared a checklist of questions to ask during your botulinum toxin consultation.
It’s natural to feel some anxiety, whether it’s excitement for your anticipated new look or a bit of stress.
Don’t be shy about discussing these feelings with a Northeast Medical Aesthetics associate or contact us at 484-202-0017 or by email.
What Should I Expect During a Consultation for Botulinum Toxin Injections?
During your botulinum toxin consultation be prepared to discuss:
- Your goals
- Medical conditions, drug allergies and medical treatments
- Current medications, vitamins, herbal supplements, alcohol, tobacco and drugs
We may also:
- Evaluate your general health status and any pre-existing health conditions or risk factors
- Discuss likely outcomes and any risks or potential complications
What are the Risks of Botulinum Toxin Injections?
You may resume normal, nonstrenuous activities immediately.
One note of caution: Don’t rub or massage the treated areas after the wrinkle treatment because it can cause the botulinum toxin to migrate to another area of your face. If this happens, you could have temporary facial weakness or drooping.
Although generally safe, botulinum toxin side effects and complications are extremely rare, but can include:
- Bruising and pain at the injection site
- Flu-like symptoms
- Headache
- Nausea
- Redness
- Temporary facial weakness or drooping
It is very unlikely that the toxin might spread beyond the treatment area, causing botulism-like signs and symptoms such as breathing problems, trouble swallowing, muscle weakness and slurred speech.
What Are the Steps of a Botulinum Toxin Injections?
Injections of botulinum toxin may seem like a simple procedure to you, since it’s just a few shots. But it’s actually both an art and science that only an experienced healthcare professional should do.
There are 43 muscles in your face and it’s vital that the person who performs botulinum toxin injections understands and pinpoints the correct spots to optimize your treatment.
A very thin needle is used to inject small amounts of botulinum toxin into specific muscles. By carefully choosing specific muscles, your healthcare provider weakens only the wrinkle-producing muscles, preserving your natural facial expressions.
Botulinum toxin treatment injections usually take less than 15 minutes.
The number of injections you need will depend on your facial features and the extent of your wrinkles. Crow’s feet, for example, usually demand two to three injections. Furrows above your brow could take five or more.
What Results Should I Expect After Botulinum Toxin Injections?
You may notice results within a few days, but it can take up to a week to see the full effect. This improvement typically lasts about three to four months.
When the effects of botulinum toxin begin to fade, your muscle reactions and the wrinkles will return.
