How Long Does BOTOX Last?

BOTOX is an injectable muscle relaxant that treats many cosmetic and medical problems related to muscle hyperactivity thanks to its active ingredient, onabotulinumtoxinA. At Steele Creek Dermatology in Charlotte, NC, it is one of the most popular treatments we offer. Today, we’re taking a closer look at this treatment, including how long you can expect your results to last and how soon you can expect to see your desired results.

How Long Does BOTOX Last? 

Individual results vary, but you can generally expect your BOTOX results to last for three to four months. After this point, your muscles will start to contract too frequently again. This will result in excessive muscle tension, eventually causing your skin to wrinkle again.

To reiterate, everyone responds to this treatment differently. We usually administer a smaller dose the first time someone receives these injections, so your desired results may only last a couple of months after your first appointment. Once we have assessed how your muscles respond to treatment and identified the optimal dose for you, after several consistent treatments your ideal results may last up to six months.

How Quickly Does This Treatment Work? 

BOTOX works incredibly quickly. You should be able to notice an improvement in your appearance three to five days after the prescription medication is injected. However, many people must wait seven to 10 days to feel satisfied with their appearance. In some cases, though, your appearance may improve over 30 days.

Am I a Good Candidate for This Treatment? 

If you feel self-conscious about dynamic wrinkles and are at least 18 years old, there is a good chance you will be considered a good candidate for treatment with this injectable muscle relaxant. While there is no specific age limit for this treatment, it is usually not administered to people who are over the age of 65.

Most of the time, this injectable muscle relaxant is used to treat crow’s feet, forehead folds, and brow lines. However, you may qualify for this treatment if you suffer from other problems, like nasolabial folds. It can even be used alone or combined with dermal filler injections to improve the appearance of the upper lip.

Who Doesn’t Qualify for Treatment? 

Although BOTOX is safe and effective for many people between the ages of 18 and 65, there are contraindications. For example, this treatment is not appropriate for people who suffer from neuromuscular disorders, like ALS or myasthenia gravis. It also isn’t appropriate for people who are allergic to bovine protein or have a history of severe allergic reactions.

Additionally, you will not qualify for this treatment if you are pregnant or nursing. Moreover, this injectable anti-aging treatment is not appropriate for people who must take NSAIDs daily or suffer from a bleeding or blood clotting disorder. Furthermore, you will not qualify for this type of treatment if your aesthetic concerns are caused by volume loss. During your initial consultation, we will confirm that this treatment will be both effective and safe.

Will I Need to Do Anything Before Treatment? 

Yes, there are preparation steps that are required before your injection session. For example, for at least one week before your appointment, you need to avoid taking any supplements or drugs that cause blood-thinning or prevent clotting. Additionally, you need to avoid drinking alcohol, consuming too much caffeine, and smoking.

It is also critical that you minimize sun exposure for at least two weeks before your appointment. We can’t treat irritated skin, so your session will be postponed if you have a sunburn when you arrive. Similarly, you should avoid getting any cosmetic treatments or using any skincare products that may irritate your skin. If you have acne breakouts in the treatment areas, you should apply preventative medication leading up to your appointment.

What Aftercare Guidelines Will I Need to Follow? 

We will give you a comprehensive list of aftercare guidelines that must be followed during your initial consultation. One crucial rule you must follow after treatment is to not exercise within the first 24 hours after treatment. You also should avoid applying makeup to the treated areas for at least 24 hours. Furthermore, you may not lie down for at least four hours after your injection session.

It is also highly advisable that you exercise your treated muscles. For example, if you get your crow’s feet treated, you should squint and relax the muscles around your eyes several times. It is also imperative that you avoid excessive heat exposure. You should take a warm bath rather than a hot shower, and you must avoid saunas and hot tubs. Moreover, you should avoid irritating cosmetic products.
 

Schedule Your Initial Consultation Today

Most people can enjoy their desired results for three to four months after BOTOX injections. However, it is possible to enjoy optimal results for up to six months if you stick to a consistent treatment schedule. To find out if this treatment is right for you, drop us a line now at Steele Creek Dermatology in Charlotte, NC to schedule an evaluation. We’ll tailor a treatment plan to address all of your unique concerns and goals.