Botox and Dysport have become the most popular wrinkle treatments in the world. If you haven’t already tried it, you probably have friends who have. Not sure what to expect? Here is a beginner’s guide.
The most important part of starting Botox or Dysport treatment is finding a provider who is an expert. You might have heard about people getting injections at parties or salons. In most cases this is not even legal! Find someone you trust. A great injector will have experience, a high level of skill, and a thorough knowledge of facial anatomy. Doctors, Nurse Practitioners and Physician Assistants can all legally see new patients and inject Botox or Dysport. Find someone who is an aesthetic injector every day (not just doing it “on the side.”)
Your doctor, nurse practitioner, or PA injector will cleanse the skin with alcohol before any treatment that involves injections. It helps to start with clean skin. If you wear makeup, it is best to wait until after treatment before putting it on. It will be partly wiped away anyway!
If you take any medication or supplement that thins the blood and makes you bleed more, like aspirin, advil, or fish oil, it is wise to stop at least 4 days before your Botox or Dysport treatment. It is not recommended to stay on them simply because there is more associated bruising. Ask your doctor about any other medications you may be on. If you’re not sure about a medication or supplement, just ask.
Alcohol also makes you bleed more, so bruising will be worse if you went out to happy hour the night before your appointment.
We recommend you take it easy for 24 hours after your Botox injections. No major heavy lifting or athletic events! Walking is fine. So plan your workout before coming in for injections.
Botox takes 1-2 weeks for its full effect to set in. Dysport is quicker– just 3-5 days. Bruising can take 2-3 weeks to go away if you have any. Finally, occasionally you may need a touch-up after Botox or Dysport injection. We recommend you plan an appointment at least 4 weeks ahead of any special event so that all these issues can be accounted for and you can look your best on the big day.
Botox and Dysport injections take only a few minutes. There is no downtime. The appointment is quick. You can do it on your lunch hour. If you plan a workout that day, make it before your appointment– and take it easy for the next 24 hours.
Botox and Dysport injections work only on certain types of wrinkles and they are temporary. You will need repeat treatments if you like the results. You may also want to consider other types of treatments if the areas of concern to you are not amenable to Botox or Dysport treatment.
Let your provider know what is bothering you and what you are trying to achieve. They will be able to design a treatment plan that addresses your concerns. It is important to remember that Botox and Dysport are only one part of a skin care plan that will keep your skin looking healthy and natural.
Web design and development by Thrive Design
