Botox facts and myths - what do you need to know before the procedure?

What is Botox and how does it work?

Botox works by temporarily blocking nerve signals reaching the muscles. Botox treatments are used for patients who want to improve their physical appearance, as well as those who struggle with bruxism, for example. 

Mechanism of action of Botox

Botox inhibits the release of acetylcholine, the neurotransmitter responsible for muscle contractions. As a result, they become relaxed, which reduces their activity. After administration, facial muscles become less active, resulting in smoothing of facial wrinkles, especially around the forehead, eyes or space between the eyebrows.

The procedure usually takes several minutes, so it is ideal for people who want to improve their appearance quickly without undergoing a long recovery. The first effects are noticeable after just a few days, and the full result lasts from 3 to 6 months, depending on the individual characteristics of the patient and the site of injection.

Botox and safety

Despite its popularity, Botox is often the subject of unfounded safety concerns. One of the most frequently repeated myths is the belief that the use of Botox is dangerous to health. Meanwhile, Botox is a substance that has undergone numerous clinical trials and for more than 20 years has been used not only in aesthetic medicine, but also in the treatment of many conditions such as migraine, hyperhidrosis and muscular dystonia.

In our clinic, Botox is administered in specially selected to the patient, small doses by qualified and experienced specialists, which significantly reduces the risk of side effects. We focus on the highest safety standards and an individual approach to each patient, and the treatments performed guarantee natural and satisfying results. Before performing the procedure, it is necessary to consult with the doctor performing the later procedure, who will assess the condition of the skin, discuss the patient's expectations and make sure that there are no contraindications to the procedure. 

Who can use Botox?

Botox is intended for adults of all ages, provided there are no medical contraindications. It is used by both men and women. Younger patients see the procedure as a prevention of facial wrinkles, while older patients see it as an effective method of smoothing out already existing signs of aging. Contraindications for Botox injections include pregnancy, neurological conditions or allergy to the components of the preparation.

Read also: Botox without the mask effect - how to achieve a natural look after the procedure?

The most common myths about Botox

Botox is the subject of many misconceptions that cause concern among patients, especially those who have not used this wrinkle-filling method before.

Myth 1. Botox causes an unnatural appearance

Properly performed Botox treatment, carried out by a qualified specialist, does not result in an unnatural appearance. The key to success lies in the proper selection of the dosage and the precise determination of which muscles to inject to achieve a subtle wrinkle-smoothing effect, while preserving natural facial features.

Botox has a pinpoint effect, which means that its application is limited to the areas that need correction. As a result, the face does not look "frozen" and facial expressions remain preserved. An unnatural effect is usually the result of overuse of the product or a lack of skill on the part of the person performing the procedure, which is why it is so important to choose a proven clinic and experienced specialists. 

Myth 2. Botox is dangerous

Botox is considered safe, provided the procedure is performed by a qualified and experienced specialist. The risk of complications is minimal, as long as the patient has no contraindications to the procedure, rules are followed regarding proper dosage and precise administration of the product to specific points on the face or body. 

Myth 3: Botox injections are painful

The Botox procedure is virtually painless due to the use of ultra-thin needles that reduce discomfort during injection. Most patients describe the experience as feeling a gentle sting that lasts only a few seconds. For those who are particularly sensitive to pain, it is possible to apply anesthetic cream to the treatment area, further eliminating any unpleasant sensations. 

Botox side effects

Like any medical procedure, Botox can also be associated with some side effects. It is worth noting , however, that they are usually mild, short-lived and relatively rare if the procedure is performed correctly.

Potential side effects

Slight swelling or bruising at the injection site is the result of mechanical damage to small blood vessels during the injection and usually disappears within a few days. To reduce the risk of their occurrence, it is a good idea to avoid taking blood-thinning drugs before the procedure.

Transient headaches may occur in some patients. This is the body's reaction to the injection or changes in muscle tension. The pain usually subsides spontaneously within 1-2 days.

In very rare cases, improper administration of Botox or too high a dose of the product can cause facial expression to weaken or limit expression in certain parts of the face. If the product is administered by inexperienced people, in the wrong places, it can cause an unnatural appearance. 

Such sequelae are reversible and disappear after some time. If you notice alarming symptoms in yourself, you should contact a specialist.

How often can Botox be used?

The use of Botox should be tailored to the individual needs of the patient and the recommendations of the specialist. Usually the effects last for several months. Treatments can and should be repeated at individually tailored intervals to sustain the effect of smoothed wrinkles and maintain a rejuvenated appearance. However, they should not be performed more often than every 3-4 months.

FAQ

Does Botox cause an unnatural facial appearance?

Properly performed Botox treatment does not cause an unnatural appearance. An exaggerated effect is usually the result of a mishandled procedure or failure to follow post-treatment instructions.

Does Botox completely immobilize facial muscles?

Botox impairs muscle activity in the areas where it was injected and can temporarily completely immobilize certain muscles, but only those to which it was injected. It does not cause complete facial paralysis.

Can I look worse after Botox once its effect has passed?

No. Once the effects of Botox have subsided, the face returns to its pre-treatment state, and the skin often looks more rested due to periodic muscle relaxation.

Can Botox be used at any age?

Botox is most commonly used by people in their 30s to reduce facial wrinkles, but in some cases the procedure can be performed as a preventive measure for patients at a younger age, such as for localized hyperhidrosis.

Does Botox work immediately after treatment?

The first effects are visible after 2-3 days, and the full effect usually appears within 7-14 days after the procedure.

What can Botox be used for?

Botox is used not only in the reduction of facial wrinkles, but also in many other areas of aesthetic and therapeutic medicine. It is used to smooth out wrinkles on the forehead, around the eyes and mouth, as well as to gently lift the corners of the mouth. In addition, Botox helps treat hyperhidrosis (e.g., hands, feet, armpits), reduce muscle tension in bruxism, and treat migraines and some neurological conditions.

Who can use Botox treatments?

Botox treatments can be used by all people who have the appropriate indications and are qualified by a doctor. The procedure is suitable for both men and women, regardless of age, as long as there are no medical contraindications. During the qualifying consultation, the doctor assesses the patient's medical condition and needs to ensure that Botox works safely and effectively.

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