Botox is an injectable treatment that works by temporarily paralyzing the muscles. The cosmetic treatment involves using diluted botulinum toxin to prevent muscle contractions. It can help reduce the visibility of wrinkles or facial lines. Botox can also help treat chronic migraines, neck spasms, hyperhidrosis (excessive sweating), lazy eye, and an overactive bladder.
Botox Treatment Procedure
Botox treatments are often performed in the doctor’s office, and you can go home the same day. While anesthesia is not always necessary, you may need it if you need treatment for an overactive bladder. It is normal to experience a little discomfort, but applying a topical numbing cream can make the procedure more comfortable.
During treatment, the specialist will use a thin needle to inject the target muscles in the treatment area. The number of injections will depend on the location of the treatment. The procedure usually takes about 15 minutes.
Botox Aftercare Instructions
Botox treatment aftercare is vital to ensure optimal results. The care reduces the risk of bruising and developing other complications. Gently exercising your face (smiling, frowning, raising eyebrows) on the day of treatment can help.
You must rest after the treatment and maintain a normal heart rate. Avoid strenuous activities, rubbing, touching, or applying pressure to the treatment area. Following your doctor’s instructions will ensure you get the desired results.
Returning to Normal Activities
Botox treatment does not require recovery time or time off from work. Most people can go back to their routine after the treatment. You should wait 24 hours before going back to your exercise routine. Your doctor may recommend waiting several days.
Physical activities increase blood flow, which can spread the toxin to other areas, reducing the effectiveness of the treatment. Exercise can increase the risk of bruising. It can also cause muscle contractions, reducing the toxin’s effectiveness.
Botox Aftercare Precautions
These are things that you should not do after your Botox treatment:
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Avoid drinking alcohol as it increases the risk of bruising
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Do not touch your face for one day as it can spread the toxin
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Avoid getting skin treatments, such as facials, dermal fillers, and exfoliating scrubs
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Avoid sun exposure for several hours after the treatment
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Try to sit up for four hours after treatment. Avoid bending or lying down
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Avoid sleeping on the treated area
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Avoid heat exposure from hot tubs, tanning beds, hot showers, or saunas
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Avoid wearing makeup for 24 hours after getting the injections
Risks Associated With Botox
Getting Botox treatment is relatively safe, but some people may experience minor side effects. They include headaches, redness, swelling, bruising, neck pain, and flu-like symptoms. Some people experience indigestion after the treatment. If you experience eye drooping, contact your doctor immediately.
You must see the doctor if you experience blurry vision, difficulty breathing or swallowing, slurred speech, or a urinary tract infection. Symptoms such as facial numbness, paralysis in the face, and severe indigestion should be considered emergencies.
The doctor will provide aftercare tips based on your lifestyle and the treatment. Following Botox aftercare instructions will help ensure that you achieve optimal results.
For more do’s and don’ts after Botox treatment, call Abraham Eye Associates at (484) 209-0800 to reach our Villanova, Pennsylvania office.
