Botox procedures are considered the gold standard for reducing wrinkles, crow’s feet, and frown lines. Botox injections have permeated everyday life through its discussion in medical circles, TV shows, commercials, and celebrities. You might ask, “why is it so popular?” The answer comes in two factors. One is because it’s minimally invasive so that you can resume regular life quickly. Two is because it works!

While the results are temporary and require multiple treatments on an average of every three months, they fade quite gradually. Results are still noticeable by the time you’ll need another treatment.

Please continue reading to learn more about this procedure, including its history, benefits, potential side effects, and getting started with Botox treatments.

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The information on this page has been reviewed for medical accuracy by
Dr. Allen Silanee, MD, FACOG
Allen Silanee, MD, is board-certified in obstetrics and gynecology (OBGYN) in Florida. Dr. Silanee has more than 18 years of experience in the obstetrics and gynecology field. Dr. Silanee is an expert in women’s health, specializing in general women’s OBGYN care and sexual wellness, as well as minimally invasive gynecology surgery, including robotic-assisted procedures.
history of botox

History of Botox

Botox is the purified form of the chemical, botulinum toxin type A, produced by the bacteria Clostridium botulinum. In the 1970s, Botox was developed as a possible treatment for crossed eyes.

The FDA approved Botox treatments in 2002 for cosmetic purposes. The FDA approval was widely covered in the media and made Botox a household name.

Since then, Botox procedures continue to be a leading treatment option for cosmetic aesthetics globally. Treatments were performed over 4.5 million times in 2016, and this number has only continued to increase year after year.

botox benefits

Botox Benefits 

Performed via injection, Botox is used to improve or enhance a person’s appearance. The most common is to reduce of the signs of facial aging such as to: 

  • Reduced wrinkles
  • Smoothing of:
    • Crow’s feet
    • Forehead furrows
    • Frown lines
    • Fine lines
    • Lip lines
    • Bunny lines
  • Lifting corners of the mouth
  • Softening the chin and jawline.

Aesthetic improvements can also be achieved in additional areas to:

  • Correct a gummy smile
  • Lift sagging eyebrows
  • Diminish neck bands

Botox allows you to take charge of your appearance as you age, helping you look younger — longer. But that’s not all. Thanks to advances in Botox therapies, people get relief from medical conditions such as TMJ, Migraines, Cervical Dystonia, Hyperhidrosis, Urinary Incontinence and Lazy Eye. What’s more, is that some health insurance plans will cover Botox therapy for these medical conditions for those who qualify.

Happy Consumer
Testimonials

I’ve been using Botox for 5 years and it has completely changed my life. I was born with a gummy smile that made me feel so self-conscious and hindered me from smiling. Since Botox came into my life, I am now fully confident and smiling from ear to ear wherever I go!

Jennie L
Florida
Botox Q&A
Getting Started with Botox Treatments

Getting Started with Botox Treatments

Finding an expert is as simple as visiting our online community. With AgeEnvy, valuable information detailing Botox as well as qualified practitioners are at your fingertips. Keep in mind that your health and safety comes first with any treatment. That’s why our mission is to give consumers control over their health by getting them connected with providers that are licensed, verified experts focused on Botox.

Possible Botox Side Effects

Possible botox side effects include:

  • Pain, swelling or bruising at the injection site
  • Headaches
  • Flu-like symptoms
  • Droopy eyelid or cockeyed eyebrows
  • Crooked smile or drooling
  • Eye dryness or excessive tearing

There are some more serious side effects that require a doctor’s attention immediately. They are:

  • Muscle weakness all over the body
  • Vision problems
  • Trouble speaking or swallowing
  • Trouble breathing
  • Loss of bladder control

FAQS ABOUT Botox

Here you will find answers to our user’s most common questions. Our goal is to keep you easily informed as you research ways to realize your age management potential. If you have a question that isn’t answered here, please ask a doctor.

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How much does Botox cost?

The total cost is dependent on the number of treatments and number of treatment areas. Factors like the physician you choose and even the time of year can influence the cost of your Botox injection. Be wary of discounts as this can indicate the quality or lack thereof of the physician. Research can help protect and guide you in your physician choice.

The average cost is approximately $500 per treated area. Areas treated include the forehead, crow’s feet, frown lines, neck bands, between the brows, and the lower face. For the most accurate pricing, consult with your physician to determine the best approach to meet your goals.

How many Botox treatments will I need?

The number of treatments is dependent on a variety of factors. The number of areas to treat, aesthetic goals, response to treatment, the condition of your facial muscles, and the quality of your physician all contribute to the number of treatments needed.

That being said, the average number of treatments for patients is once every 3-4 months per treated area. A higher metabolism combined with stronger facial muscles and deeper wrinkles will result in more treatments being required than it would for someone with less defined facial muscles or less visible lines.  

How long is the recovery time with Botox?

Botox is a completely non-surgical procedure. There is no recovery period or downtime needed. Many patients resume normal activities immediately, including going back to work. Make sure to avoid touching or rubbing the treated area after the procedure to prevent the possibility of the Botox migrating away from the point of injection.

Keep in mind that while there may not be a recovery period, there are still side effects to pay attention to. Some patients may experience side effects more severely than others. If you find yourself experiencing any of the possible side effects, then you may want to consider suspending some of your activities until you feel better.

How quickly will I see results from Botox?

Some patients may notice results in as little as a few days, while other patients take longer to notice results. Different aesthetic goals, starting points, and areas treated may affect the speed of the results.

However, the majority experience full results approximately one week after the procedure. If you find the results not coming as quickly as expected, consult with your physician to determine if additional treatment is needed to generate results.

How long will my Botox results last?

The results usually last about 3-4 months. Just like with any procedure, your individual metabolism, aesthetic goals, pre-existing conditions, and muscle definition will affect the length of the results.

Pay attention to changes in the treated area as time goes on. You’ll notice the effects of the Botox injection fading when you see the return of muscle reactions and wrinkles in the treated area. Your physician will know when it’s time for another treatment to maintain your results.

Are there other similar options to Botox?

While Botox may be synonymous with removing wrinkles or addressing crow’s feet, it is not the only method of treatment available for patients. There is an entire range of dermal fillers designed to help with such aesthetic concerns like Juvederm or Restylane. There are also more injectables that are similar to Botox as they are a form of botulinum as well. Dysport and Myobloc for example.

Besides injectables, there are other options like chemical peels and other facial treatments that may help a person achieve the same result. Remember, that other procedures may have recovery time or additional side effects.