What to Know Before Getting Botox

Botox is a compound that works by paralyzing or weakening your muscles. The compound has protein consisting of botulinum toxin. Clostridium botulinum is a bacterium that produces the botulinum toxin. When you get Botox in minimal doses, it helps reduce wrinkles on the skin. It can also help in the treatment of some ailments. This form of cosmetic treatment is safe and has few side effects.

 

The neurotoxin in Botox targets your nervous system. It disrupts your nerve signaling processes that cause muscle contractions. Muscle contractions require acetylcholine, which comes from nerves. It attaches to receptors on the cells of muscles, causing them to shorten or contract. Botox injections interrupt this whole process by preventing the release of acetylcholine.

 

If you are thinking of undergoing Botox for the first time, there are some things you should know before embarking on the journey.

 

Consultation

Like any other procedure, you need to find a doctor or cosmetologist that you are comfortable with. You can book an appointment with a board-certified dermatologist or plastic surgeon as a start. Your ideal physician must help determine whether the procedure is good for you or not. They should advise you on the procedure and what to expect afterward.

 

Medications to Avoid

Botox veterans know what drugs to avoid, but if it is your first time here, what you need to know about is what to avoid. The most important drugs you need to avoid are anticoagulants. These are drugs that block blood clotting, like ibuprofen.

 

Some doctors may also recommend that you stay away from other food items and supplements long before the procedure. These include multivitamins, ginger, fish oil, cinnamon, green tea, and red wine.

 

The Procedure Is Painless and Temporary

Apart from the prick of the needles, the Botox procedure is relatively painless. The procedure may be painless, but you may experience some pain for some time after the injections. The effects of Botox are temporary.

 

The effects may last up to four months, depending on your lifestyle. Some lifestyle practices may make the effects of the procedure fade faster. For instance, if you are very expressive or work out often, the effects may last up to three months.

 

One thing that all Botox newbies must know is that it does not get rid of wrinkles. The procedure instead prevents the development of more wrinkles on your face. It freezes your facial muscles keeping them from deepening the present lines and wrinkles.

 

Be Wary of Cheap Deals

In terms of cost, be very careful of cheap deals or offers that seem too good to be true. This is because they may be using Botox that is dilute or a batch that is from another country. The injectable and compounds may be unsafe to use. Ask friends and relatives about their experiences with different cosmetologists before settling on one.

 

Side Effects to Expect

Before undergoing the procedure, ask your doctor about the side effects that you are likely to experience. Side effects are not the same for all people. Some may occur at the site of the injection or happen after the procedure.

 

If you want to know more about Botox, visit Shepard Eye Center at any of our offices in Santa Maria, Lompoc, Solvang, or Orcutt, California. Call (805) 667-0100, (805) 793-1800, (805) 410-9998, or (805) 937-9532 to speak to any of our professionals.