What is Botox ?

Botox stands for Botulinum toxin, which is produced by bacteria called Clostridium botulinum. This neurotoxin substance is able to weaken certain muscles and nerves.

Botox injection is a non-surgical procedure to reduce the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines on the face. This type of botox cosmetic injection is a purified form of Botulinum Toxin type A.

What Areas that botox injection can treat ?

Botox treatment is commonly used to treat wrinkles in the area of the forehead, frown line, crow’s feet, and bunny lines. It is also used in the eyebrow area to create a lifting effect. And gummy smile to reduce the appearance of the gum when smiling. Other than to treat wrinkles, Botox is also used to contour jawline. Some medical conditions that can be treated with Botox include Hyperhidrosis (excessive sweating) and migraine.

How does it works ? 

Botox is a neurotoxin which can block nerve signals that stimulate muscle contraction. Without these signals, the muscle cannot contract. On the other hand, fine lines and wrinkles on the face can be caused by facial muscle contraction such as smiling, squinting, and frowning.

By injecting Botox on the wrinkles area, it will block nearby nerve signals. As a result, the muscle around will relax and prevent further contraction, thus allowing to reduce the appearance of wrinkles furthermore prevent more development of wrinkles. Your skin will look smoother and wrinkles free. 

What to expect after having botox ?

You may start to see the result in three to seven days after injection. After 14 days, the result should be in full effect, resulting in a smoother, more refreshed face. The effect of Botox injection lasts for about three to six months. This will depend on the individual’s metabolism system. It is because Botox will be absorbed by the body and excreted by kidneys once it loses its function. It is recommended to repeat the treatment in 3-4 months. In some cases, with repeated treatments the wrinkles can actually disappear. 

Botox FAQ 

Who is the best candidate for botox ? 

Wrinkles are the most common aging signs. Due to less collagen production as we age, wrinkles and fine lines can easily form in our face. We start to lose collagen at the age of 20 for about 1% each year. When this happens, our skin will lose its elasticity. Furthermore any facial movement and expression makes wrinkles and fine lines appear more visible. 

You are a good candidate for Botox facial injection if you have moderate to severe unwanted wrinkles. You can also have Botox injection as a preventive step before those fine lines become more permanent. However you are not a good candidate if you are pregnant or nursing, and have an allergic reaction to Botox.

How much botox do I need ? 

Botox uses unit calculation. Before the treatment, our doctor will examine how many units you need. Everyone’s needs are different. Units needed depend on the area, wrinkles severity, and target result you desire. For example on the forehead area, approximately you need 10-30 units. The more wrinkles and fine lines you have and the stiffer result you desire, the more units you need. 

For bigger muscle areas such as masseters or jawline contouring, you will need approximately 30 units each side. In some medical purposes such as to treat hyperhidrosis and migraine you need up to 100 units.

Any pain during the treatment ?

The needles used for Botox are very small, so pain is usually minimal. Ice is applied beforehand to control the bleeding and bruising. The injection takes about 10 minutes, with no downtime afterward.

What should I avoid after having botox ? 

The first important thing after having Botox injection is to not lay down for four hours. Do not massage or rub on treated areas, including facial. We do not want the Botox migration before it is settled.

It is also necessary to keep out of the sun. It is recommended to avoid any activity which can raise body temperature, such as exercise, sunbathing, have sauna, and drink alcohol for at least 24 hours after the procedure.

 Is there any side effect ? 

Redness and small bumps at the injection area are common after treatment. However, these side effects will disappear quickly. Headache may occur to patients who have had a Botox injection for the first time. But it can be treated with usual painkillers.  

How long the effect will last?

In general, the botox can last 4- 6 months.