BOTOX® and Dysport® are purified neurotoxins that temporarily reduce or eliminate wrinkles on the face. Neurotoxins work by preventing facial muscles from contracting in problematic areas. Their goal is to diminish fine lines by smoothing and reducing them and preventing their occurrence as we age.
BOTOX® and Dysport® both temporarily inhibit certain nerve cells that signal muscle contractions. The result is smoother and younger-looking skin since it weakens the facial movements that cause fine lines and wrinkles.
BOTOX® is an injectable prescription medicine that temporarily improves forehead lines, crow’s feet, and frown lines between the eyebrows in adults by temporarily decreasing the appearance of moderate-to-severe wrinkles in the face.
By injecting Dysport® into five different points above and between your eyebrows, you can temporarily stop the muscle contractions that cause frown lines, so the rest of your face can move normally.
Botox is very safe. It has been around for a long time and has had multiple clinical trials by the FDA ensuring its safety and efficacy. As with any medical treatment, there are some risks associated with it. The most common side effects are bruising and a mild headache.
As with any medical treatment, there are some risks associated with Botox injections. The most common side effects are bruising and a mild headache. In rare cases, botox can cause temporary weakness of the eyelid muscle and cause a droopy eyelid. This is one reason it is important to follow your provider’s instructions to prevent this rare issue. For a full list of side effects, please discuss with your doctor.
Botox lasts between 3 and 4 months. It is important that you keep your Botox appointments consistent to prevent wrinkles from forming and have a repeat treatment before your previous dose is fully worn off.
There are no long-term side effects typically seen after having Botox. If you stop having botox treatments you will see those wrinkles start to form again. But they would still be less prominent compared to if you never had any Botox treatments before.
There is no requirement to continue Botox after starting. Many people choose to continue Botox treatments once they see the great effects in wrinkle reduction and smoothness of their skin but Botox can be safely stopped at any time.
It is rare for insurance to cover Botox treatments, but when they are covered it is due to the use in the eye muscles for vision issues and occasionally for specific headache disorders. Insurance does not cover cosmetic Botox treatments.
No, you should not get Botox if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
