Frequently Asked Questions
Botox
What is Botox Botox is a neurotoxin which blocks certain chemical signals from nerves, mostly signals that cause muscles to contract. The most common use of these injections is to temporarily relax the facial muscles that cause wrinkles around the eyes and in the forehead. These effects are temporary and NOT permanent. The results typically last 3-4 months but can vary person to person.
Does Botox Hurt Botox injections involve a small amount of discomfort, often described as a small sting or burning sensation. This discomfort can be mitigated or reduced by using a topical numbing cream to help reduce or eliminate any discomfort.
What are the potential side effects of Botox Discomfort and swelling near the injection site are the most common side effects. There are reports of eyelid dropping or brow drooping following injections, but this is not a common complication.
Will Botox make my face look overdone or unnatural Great question! A huge fear of clients starting Botox is to look “overdone or unnatural.” We understand this fear and take it very seriously. The goal of Botox injections is to reduce wrinkles and provide a smoother appearance of the skin. Each client has different needs and expectations, which helps the treating provider create a unique individualized plan for that individual. The goal is to reduce/eliminate wrinkles while still allowing for normal facial expressions to be present. Your healthcare provider will learn about your individual goals during the consultation and create a game plan that is right for you.
How long is the recovery time after Botox treatment Botox requires little to no down time after the procedure. It is recommended not to rub the areas injected for 24 hours to avoid the Botox migrating to unintended areas. It is also recommended not to do strenuous exercise 24 hours post procedure. Using ice after Botox helps to reduce swelling. Tylenol can be used for pain relief. It is best to avoid NSAID’s (anti-inflammatories) before or shortly after the procedure to minimize any bruising (very rare but can occur).
How long will Botox Last Botox typically lasts 3-4 months depending on the muscles injected and the region of the face treated. Metabolism and amount of Botox used are the biggest determining factors for length of duration, although other factors are involved as well.
How many injections will I get with Botox The number of injections varies depending on the area treated and the strength of the muscles involved. Lines between the eyes (also referred to the 11’s) typically involves 5 injection points. The forehead can vary anywhere between 5 and 10 injection points. And the lines around the eyes (also referred to as crow’s feet) involve 3-4 injection points on each side. Those are the three areas that are FDA approved for the face, however there are various other points on the face that can be treated “off-label” with Botox.
When can I see results after Botox Treatment Results from Botox vary from person to person. It is possible to notice results as early as 3-4 days but may take around a week for others. Botox typically lasts between 3-4 months depending on the area of the body treated. Treatment will have to be repeated to continue seeing results.
How many treatments will I need with Botox Botox is completed in one treatment which lasts anywhere from 5-15 minutes depending on the area(s) treated and the amount of Botox used. Occasionally you may need a touch up to address any lines or wrinkles that weren’t addressed at your initial visit. This typically happens when not enough Botox was used. Clients will need ongoing treatments in the future if they want to continue seeing results. Botox typically lasts 3-4 months.
Is Botox only for women Botox is not used exclusively by women! Reports vary by area, but around 10% of cosmetic Botox procedures are performed on men. Some offices report numbers as high as 20%.
Is there any downtime after Botox injections There is very minimal if any downtime after Botox injections. The main concern is spreading the Botox to other areas in which it is not intended, which can cause unwanted side effects. Newer research has found that the spread of Botox to other areas is very rare and not as common as previously thought. It is a good idea to avoid rubbing your face/intense exercise for 24 hours and lying flat for 4 hours post procedure.
Fillers
What Are Fillers Most people have heard the word “fillers” at some point and may even have done a Google search to find this out. But what are fillers anyway? Dermal Fillers are comprised of hyaluronic acid. This is a substance that is found naturally in the human body. Its main function is to retain water to keep your tissues well lubricated and moist. Fillers are used in the facial structures (most commonly in the lips and cheeks) to provide a plump and hydrated look.
Do fillers hurt Dermal filler injections involve a small amount of discomfort, often described as a tiny pinch or burning sensation. This discomfort can be mitigated or reduced by using a topical numbing cream to help reduce or eliminate any discomfort. There is often some swelling after the procedure which can be easily treated with ice and Tylenol.
How long do they last Filler vary in how long they last depending on the area treated. Most fillers last approximately 1 year. The fillers in the cheek region typically last 18-24 months. Clients often come sooner than the allotted time frame if they prefer a larger look or before the area begins to return to the original size/shape.
How long is the recovery after Filler treatment You can return to normal activity hours after filler injections. No intense/heavy exercise for 6-8 hours to avoid migration of the filler. Avoid NSAID’s (Ibuprofen, Naproxen, Aleve) and rubbing/massaging the area for several days after the procedure. Tylenol can be used for pain.
What are the potential side effects of fillers The potential side effects of fillers are redness, swelling, tenderness, itching and bruising. These side effects are uncommon and if encountered, last a very short period. In rare circumstance, fillers can migrate into other part of the face that are unintended. While this is a possibility, having an experienced injector who has a strong background in anatomy can reduce these risks significantly.
Will fillers make my face look overdone or unnatural This is one of the most frequent asked questions in medical aesthetics. A quick google search will reveal many photos of individuals and celebrities that tend to look “overdone or unnatural”. While every person has different wishes on how they want their appearance to look, most want subtle but noticeable changes but for them to be subtle and natural looking. At Defined Aesthetics of Louisville, we strive to fulfill each person’s wishes to the best of our ability. We favor starting slow and progressing slow so the client will be happy and satisfied with the result. Often this starts by adding a small amount of filler and re-assessing in 1-2 weeks to make sure their goals have been achieved. This gives the client an opportunity to make subtle changes while reducing any fears of looking unnatural or overdone.
Is there any down time after filler injections Wait until the next day to exercise/do strenuous activity. Stay out of the sun and no not use any indoor tanning for several days. Avoid touch the area to avoid spreading the filler into a different location.