FAQ’s Botox

Question

Answer

What is Botox?

BOTOX® Cosmetic is one brand of a purified protein that is injected into muscles and used to improve the look of moderate to severe frown lines between the eyebrows (glabellar lines) in people 18 to 65 years of age for a short period of time (temporary).  It is not used for deep lines, like the smile lines that run from the nose to the mouth; this is where filler is used.

Four other brands of neuromodulators include Xeomin (identical to Botox, but does not have a protein coating), Dysport (different molecularly from Botox and Xeomin; 3 units of Dysport equal 1 unit of Botox or Xeomin), and Jeuveau (which Dr. Ling has found lasts about 6 weeks, so she does not offer this). Daxxify (has variable duration of 3-6 months), at 1.5 times the regular price of botox.

Does it hurt?

Neuromodulators are injected with a very small needle into the muscles that cause expression.  Generally, it doesn’t hurt much, and takes just a few seconds.

How much will I need?

The amount used (units) is proportional to how strong your muscles are.  Most people inject a larger than necessary amount. Dr. Ling likes to keep you looking normal, and not frozen, or like you just got Botox. You will maintain some movement, but not enough to cause the deep wrinkling.  Typical STARTING amounts for the different areas of your face are as follows:

  • Glabella (between brows, “angry 11’s) – 20 units
  • Forehead (horizontal worry lines) – 10 units
  • Crows feet – 10 units
  • Bunny lines (diagonal lines on nose) – 4 units
  • Corners of mouth – 6 units
  • Gummy grin – 5 units
  • Pebble chin – 5 units
  • Platysma (vertical neck cords) – 20 units
  • Masseters – 20 – 50 units

Does it work right away?

Effects are usually first noticeable 4 days after injection, but full effect is in 2 weeks afterwards.

How long does it last?

3 – 6 months.  It lasts 3 months in a majority of people

How much does it cost?

$13 – 19 (depending on the brand you receive) per unit.

Who shouldn’t get Botox?

If you are allergic to any of the ingredients in BOTOX® Cosmetic (see Medication Guide for ingredients); had an allergic reaction to any other botulinum toxin product such as Myobloc® (rimabotulinumtoxinB), Dysport®(abobotulinumtoxinA), or Xeomin® (incobotulinumtoxinA); have a skin infection at the planned injection site.  Pregnant or breastfeeding.

Are there serious side effects?

Yes, but they are very rare.

•  Problems swallowing, speaking, or breathing, due to weakening of associated muscles, can be severe and result in loss of life. You are at the highest risk if these problems are pre-existing before injection. Swallowing problems may last for several months

•  Spread of toxin effects. The effect of botulinum toxin may affect areas away from the injection site and cause serious symptoms including: loss of strength and all-over muscle weakness, double vision, blurred vision and drooping eyelids, hoarseness or change or loss of voice (dysphonia), trouble saying words clearly (dysarthria), loss of bladder control, trouble breathing, trouble swallowing.

Other potential side effects?

Dry mouth, discomfort or pain at the injection site, tiredness, headache, neck pain, and eye problems: double vision, blurred vision, decreased eyesight, drooping eyelids, swelling of your eyelids, and dry eyes.

How long is my appointment?

30 minutes (Botox – New Client), if you’ve never met Dr. Ling or had Botox before, so she can answer all your questions and do a full assessment.

15 minutes (Botox Drive-by Shooting) if you are an established client, and have had botox in the recent past and have no other questions about other cosmetic procedures.