Botox injections are injections that temporarily relax muscles, softening wrinkles that are usually caused by muscle contractions. These injections are often used to eliminate expression lines, reduce excessive sweating, and treat chronic migraines.
How do botox injections work?
Botox injections work by blocking nerve connections, causing the muscles to relax completely or partially, eliminating wrinkles and making the skin smoother. This effect is always temporary, but can last up to 3-6 months. Because of this effect, botox injections can be used to treat many conditions and correct appearance in both men and women.
What is botulinum toxin made from?
The neurotoxins contained in botulinum toxin are produced by the bacterium Clostridium botulinum. Doctors use a specific type of this bacterium (type A) for medical injections.
Botulinum toxins are naturally found in soil and contaminated food products. Consuming large amounts of botulinum toxins or getting bacteria into a wound can lead to botulism. This serious nervous system disorder affects breathing. For optimal safety and effectiveness, botox injections are produced in a laboratory.
How long does the effect of botox injections last?
The effect of botox injections lasts for about 3-6 months. To maintain a long-lasting effect, botox injections should be repeated.
Are botox injections safe?
Botox injections are safe when performed by experienced and qualified doctors. At OST KLINIKA, we only work with proven and certified devices and products to ensure the best results after the procedure.
Who are botox injections suitable for?
Your doctor will help you decide whether you are a suitable candidate for botox injections and which procedure is most suitable for you.
In most cases, you are a suitable candidate for botox injections if:
- You complain of wrinkles on your forehead, neck, around your eyes or lips;
- You complain of excessive sweating (hyperhidrosis);
- You complain of chronic migraines;
- You do not have an active infection, such as herpes;
- You do not have any chronic diseases, such as diabetes or lupus.
Detailed information about the botox injection procedure
How to prepare for the botox injection procedure?
Your doctor will give you specific instructions on how to best prepare. It is recommended to avoid taking aspirin, anti-inflammatory drugs, or anticoagulants for several days before the procedure, as these may increase the risk of bleeding and bruising. Alcohol also increases the tendency to redness and bruising.
What happens during the procedure?
The doctor will inject a carefully selected amount of botulinum toxin into carefully marked areas using a thin needle. The amount of botox injections depends on the area being treated, the patient's wishes, and age. Most people experience slight discomfort during the procedure. The entire procedure takes about 15-30 minutes.
What happens after the botox injection?
After the procedure, the doctor may monitor you for up to 15 minutes to make sure you do not experience any side effects, including dizziness, nausea, or an allergic reaction.
After the procedure, it is recommended that you:
- Avoid using facial cosmetics for at least 24 hours;
- Remain in an upright position (do not lie down) for 3-4 hours;
- Avoid physical exertion for at least 24 hours;
- Avoid pressing or touching the injection site;
The doctor will also schedule a follow-up consultation approximately two weeks after the procedure to evaluate the final results.
Side effects of botox injections
- Redness, swelling, and pain at the injection sites;
- Bruising at the injection sites;
- Flu-like symptoms;
- Headache, neck pain;
- Temporary drooping of the eyebrows;
- Temporary drooping of the eyelids;
- Eye irritation or redness.
All side effects are temporary and usually disappear within a few days of treatment.
When is it not recommended to use botox injections?
- During pregnancy and breastfeeding;
- If you are allergic to any of the ingredients in the preparation;
- If you have nerve and muscle conduction disorders (myasthenia gravis, Lambert-Eaton syndrome);
- Skin infections at the injection site;
- When taking certain medications or up to 1 week after discontinuing their use: aminoglycosides (streptomycin, gentamicin, amikacin, kanamycin, etc.), chloroquine, hydroxychloroquine, D-penicillamine, cyclosporine, lincomycin, tetracycline, succinylcholine, tubocurarine, pancuronium, gamamine, polymyxin.
FAQs about botox injections
Are botox injections painful?
You may feel slight discomfort at the injection sites, which should disappear after 12-24 hours.
Can botox injections be used during pregnancy?
Most doctors recommend waiting until after you give birth to have the procedure done.
Do botox injections help with migraines?
Botox injections work by blocking nerve connections, thereby blocking the chemicals that signal pain transmission. This therapy works best for people who experience headaches at least 15 days per month.
At what age can you start getting botox injections?
The most common patients are between 30 and 35 years old. Botox injections are also used on younger patients. at this age, the goal of the procedure is to prevent the appearance of wrinkles in the future, eventually forming a preventive habit against unwanted facial expressions that contribute to the formation of deeper or more noticeable wrinkles. The most common facial expression wrinkles that require treatment are forehead "worry" wrinkles, forehead "anger" wrinkles, and "crow's feet" wrinkles around the eyes.
What is the difference between botox injections and hyaluronic acid injections?
The neurotoxins contained in botulinum toxin are produced by the bacterium Clostridium botulinum. Doctors use a specific type of this bacterium (type A) for medical injections. Hyaluronic acid is produced from synthetic materials, including collagen and hyaluronic acid. Botox injections work by blocking nerve connections, causing the muscles to relax, eliminating wrinkles and making the skin smoother, while hyaluronic acid injections add volume and help retain moisture. During your consultation, your doctor will discuss the advantages and disadvantages of each treatment method and recommend the option that is most suitable for you.
When should I see my doctor after the procedure?
A follow-up consultation is recommended two weeks after the botulinum toxin injection. Your doctor will examine you and discuss the final results with you.
