Posted on January 26, 2022 in Non-Surgical
Botox injections have been popular for years and are only increasing in popularity as the procedure becomes less taboo and more mainstream. The product, which uses a purified form of botulinum toxin to temporarily paralyze muscles, is very effective in smoothing wrinkles without causing excessive side effects or downtime. In addition to reducing existing wrinkles near the eyes or through the forehead, Botox is also increasingly popular for preventative purposes, with patients as young as their mid-twenties turning to injections to prevent wrinkles from forming as they squint, smile, or frown.
One of the few downsides of Botox is that results are not permanent. This means that many patients have questions about how long the results might last. Dr. Ransom can answer any of your Botox questions during a consultation, but you can continue reading to learn more about what to expect from your results.
Botox results are not immediate. Most patients will start to see some results beginning about 3-5 days after their injections. On average, full and final results are visible a week to ten days after the procedure. It is possible that you will require a “touch up,” especially after your first injections, but it is best to wait at least two weeks for final results to settle before determining whether additional injections are necessary to achieve your goals.
Some patients will find that gently exercising the area or carefully and lightly massaging can help results set in faster. Be sure to consult with Dr. Ransom before attempting either, and never put excess pressure on your injection site as this can result in the product migrating to an unwanted area or unnecessary bruising.
Over time, your muscles will develop new, unaffected nerve receptors which allow free range of motion to resume. This typically occurs within about 3-4 months after your initial injections. For some patients, Botox may last as little as two months or as long as six, but this is less common. Most patients also find that their Botox results last longer when they have been receiving maintenance injections for some time compared to their very first injections. During your consultation, Dr. Ransom can help you determine a long-term treatment plan with routine maintenance injections if you choose.
Like all procedures, there are some risks to Botox injections. However, the procedure is generally safe and a majority of risks are minimal.
Choosing a qualified and experienced injector will help you avoid these risks and achieve the best possible results. Dr. Ransom performs all injections himself, so you have the benefit of a plastic surgeon’s expertise and thorough understanding of facial anatomy.
After your injections, you can expect some common and mild side effects. These include mild swelling or redness at the injection site and some tenderness or sensitivity. These should resolve quickly, within about 24-48 hours at most.
To learn more about Botox or other non-surgical options, schedule a consultation with Dr. Ransom. Call our San Francisco office at (415) 877-6592 or contact us online.
Dr. Evan Ransom is an Ivy League-educated and Ivy League trained Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgeon. He is a Double Board Certified Head and Neck Surgeon and Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery and fellowship-trained in facial plastic, reconstructive, and laser surgery. His practice is in the San Francisco Bay Area, serving patients from San Francisco, Oakland, Marin County, Palo Alto, Silicon Valley, Walnut Creek, the East Bay, and all over Northern California.