There is No Downtime

You can return to your normal daily activities immediately. You may experience tiny, bug-bite-like bumps at the injection sites, but these typically disappear within 15–30 minutes. To ensure the best results, we recommend avoiding lying flat, rubbing the treated area, or performing intense exercise for 4 hours after your appointment.

Most patients compare the sensation to a quick bug bite or a tiny pinch that lasts only a few seconds. Because the needles are ultra-fine, the discomfort is minimal and no numbing is required. Afterward, you may feel a slight pressure at the injection site, but this fades almost immediately. The entire injection process typically takes less than 10 minutes.

The number of units varies based on your unique facial structure, muscle strength, and aesthetic goals. On average, the FDA-approved dosing for the three most common areas is 20 units for the forehead, 20 units for the "11 lines" between the brows, and 24 units for crow’s feet. During your consultation, our MD/PA-C will provide a personalized assessment to determine the exact amount needed for a natural, refreshed look.

Our treatments are performed by one of our medical providers (MD/PA-C) only. Trained estheticians and other medical staff may assist as well, but are not allowed to inject.

Yes, BOTOX® Cosmetic is FDA-approved for the temporary improvement of four specific facial areas in adults:

• Forehead Lines (horizontal lines across the brow).
• Frown Lines (vertical "11" lines between the eyebrows).
• Crow’s Feet (lines at the outer corners of the eyes).
• Platysma Bands (vertical neck bands)—as of late 2024, it is the first and only neurotoxin approved for this area.

You are likely an ideal candidate if you are an adult in good health looking to smooth existing wrinkles or prevent "static" lines from forming. Botox is effective for all skin types and tones. However, you should avoid treatment if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, have a neuromuscular disorder (like ALS or Myasthenia Gravis), or have an active skin infection at the injection site.

You should not receive Botox if you:

• Are Pregnant or Breastfeeding: There is insufficient clinical data to guarantee safety for the baby.
• Have a Neuromuscular Disorder: Conditions such as ALS (Lou Gehrig’s disease), Myasthenia Gravis, or Lambert-Eaton syndrome.
• Have an Active Infection: Any skin infection, cold sore, or inflammation at the planned injection site.
• Have a Known Allergy: A history of hypersensitivity to any botulinum toxin product or cow’s milk protein (as some versions contain albumin).

Botox is extremely safe when administered by a medical professional. Most side effects are minor and temporary, including:

• Localized Reactions: Mild bruising, swelling, or redness at the injection site (usually resolves in minutes to hours).
• Headache: A temporary "Botox headache" can occur in about 10% of patients following the first treatment.
• Temporary Asymmetry: Drooping of the eyelid (ptosis) or eyebrow is rare (less than 1%) and is typically caused by the product migrating. This is why following post-care instructions is so important.

• Avoid Blood Thinners: To minimize bruising, avoid aspirin, ibuprofen (Advil/Motrin), and naproxen (Aleve) for 7 days before your appointment. (Consult your doctor before stopping prescribed medications).
• Skip Supplements: Pause fish oil, Vitamin E, ginkgo biloba, and garlic supplements for one week prior, as these can increase bruising.
• No Alcohol: Avoid alcohol for at least 24 hours before your treatment to keep your blood from thinning.
• Clean Skin: Arrive with a clean face. While we will sanitize the injection sites, starting with no makeup or heavy lotions is ideal.
• Arrive Hydrated: Being well-hydrated helps your skin recover quickly and feel its best.

• Stay Upright: Do not lie flat or bend over for at least 4 hours after your injections.
• Don't Touch: Avoid rubbing, massaging, or applying firm pressure to the treated areas for 24 hours. This prevents the Botox from migrating to unintended muscles.
• Skip the Gym: Refrain from intense exercise or heavy lifting for 24 hours. Increased blood flow can potentially move the product.
• Cool Down: Avoid high-heat environments like saunas, steam rooms, or hot tubs for 24 hours.
• Be Patient: Remember that it takes 10–14 days to see your final, smooth result.
• Skincare: You can apply makeup and your usual gentle skincare immediately, but avoid harsh facials or chemical peels for at least 24 hours. Also all products used should be as clean and sterile as possible to avoid any infection risk near the injection sites.

• Vision Changes: Any double vision, blurred vision, or significant drooping of the eyelid (ptosis).
• Difficulty Swallowing or Breathing: While extremely rare, seek medical attention immediately if you experience these symptoms.
• Signs of Allergic Reaction: Severe swelling, hives, or wheezing.
• Prolonged Muscle Weakness: Weakness in muscles far away from the injection site.
• Unexpected Bruising or Pain: Intense pain or bruising that seems to be spreading rather than fading after 48 hours.
• 14-Day Check-in: If it has been a full 14 days and you feel your results are uneven or you still have significant movement in the treated area, call us to schedule a brief "touch-up" assessment.