Considering BOTOX®? What to Do Before and After Treatment

The desire to look young is one of the most highly sought-after goals in history. We are always looking to curb the unfortunate effects of aging, including expression lines and static wrinkles. At Ponte Vedra Plastic Surgery in Ponte Vedra Beach, FL, our skilled technicians offer BOTOX  and other injectables as a quick and convenient treatment for the face. We use our expertise to administer BOTOX to address lines near the forehead, outer eyes, lips, and between the brows for a smoother look. 

BOTOX is an FDA-approved treatment used to decrease moderate to severe lines and wrinkles in the face on a temporary basis. While BOTOX consistently ranks as one of the most effective methods available, it should only be administered by a qualified professional. This is why speaking with a consultant at Ponte Vedra Plastic Surgery is so essential. If this is your first time receiving BOTOX, or if you’re unsure what to expect, here’s what to do before and after your appointment. 

The best candidates for BOTOX

Most people who get BOTOX are men and women between the ages of 30 – 55. Ponte Vedra Plastic Surgery also welcomes younger people in their 20s to receive injections as a preventative measure for facial lines and wrinkles. The treatment is so popular that many individuals schedule BOTOX treatments during their lunch break. 

At your private consultation, the experienced staff at Ponte Vedra Plastic Surgery will determine if BOTOX is right for you in comparison to another treatment, such as an injectable wrinkle filler. For example, our facility offers Juvéderm® to restore lost volume and treat folds in the face. The primary difference is that BOTOX reduces the activity of facial muscles that cause wrinkles, while fillers "fill in" areas and plump the skin. If you decide on a BOTOX treatment, there are steps you can take to prepare yourself. 

Before BOTOX treatment 

A consultation will help you understand if BOTOX is the right cosmetic decision for you. While planning for your appointment, it is important to take care of your skin to receive the most optimal results. While the process is different for everyone, a BOTOX treatment usually takes about 30 minutes. The quantity and location of the treatment also vary for each patient. 

Arrive at Ponte Vedra Plastic Surgery free of any cosmetics. Those with visible sunburn on the treatment areas should ask a member of our team if they will need to wait until the sun damage has subsided. To begin, patients in our Jacksonville-area treatment centers are given an injection to localized areas on the face, only feeling a small prick as it inserts through the skin. 

Keep in mind that BOTOX is not meant to be permanent. Speak with your injector in Ponte Vedra Beach, FL, about how often you will need to get injected. It will likely be once per quarter. 

After BOTOX treatment 

Immediately following the BOTOX injections, there will be a little redness and swelling at the injection site. This should go away after a few hours. Even though you can resume your schedule as normal after leaving the facility, try to avoid exercise for the rest of the day. Results of the BOTOX treatment will become more apparent after 4 – 7 days. With the limited movement of the facial muscles, wrinkles and lines will begin to decrease or disappear. The result is smoother, softer-looking skin. 

Here’s a quick list of what to avoid after your BOTOX injection. 

• Touch: Avoid touching or pressing down on the areas where you received BOTOX for at least 24 hours. This prevents the injection from spreading to other unintended muscles. 
• Blood thinners: Aspirin and other drugs can cause excess bleeding. If you are taking blood-thinning medication, speak with your healthcare provider. 
• Facials: Harsh chemicals, like those found in facials and chemical peels, can interfere with the injection's results. Plan these treatments about a week after your BOTOX treatment. 

Ponte Vedra Plastic Surgery will gladly offer you advice and resources on avoiding discomfort due to your injections. For example, when going to bed that night, keep your head slightly elevated to reduce swelling. Our experts are happy to address any other questions or concerns you may have about injectables. 

Schedule your BOTOX appointment 

Ponte Vedra Plastic Surgery offers numerous nonsurgical treatments at multiple locations in the Jacksonville, FL, area. Our staff truly values the cosmetic goals of each patient and will work with you to meet them. We take part in ongoing training programs to stay current on the latest and most advanced procedures. If you would like more information about what to do before and after your BOTOX appointment in Northeast Florida, we invite you to call today  to learn more about us.