There is a reason injections of Botox Cosmetic are the most popular cosmetic procedure in the U.S. But what is Botox? It's a protein derived from botulinum toxin that is injected underneath the skin in order to minimize or smooth out lines and wrinkles on the face. When low doses of BOTOX® are used, it selectively weakens or relaxes facial muscles, giving the recipient a clean, smooth facial appearance.
Botox® Treatment Areas
BOTOX® can be used on virtually any area of the body. Areas that are commonly treated include:
- Eyebrows
- Forehead
- Eyelids
- Lips
- Neck
- Jawline
BOTOX® is also commonly used for excessive sweating (Hyperhidrosis), Bruxism (teeth grinding), reducing appearance of platysmal bands, calf reductions and "gummy smiles."
We’re as thrilled with our patients’ results as they are. Check out our before-and-after photo gallery and see for yourself the kind of work our talented surgeons and nurses do.
What To Expect During Cosmetic Injection Consultation
BOTOX® treatment includes an initial consultation, and facial evaluation. An individualized treatment plan to achieve your goals is created. The treatment takes only a few minutes and is nearly painless. Details about how your BOTOX® treatment will be performed will be provided during your initial consultation.
How Long Do The Results of Botox® Last?
Botox typically lasts up to 4 months but results vary depending on the area and amount used.
Introducing TOXBOOSTER
The Ultimate Combo: VI Peel + Botox
Get even better results from your regular Botox injections when you add a VI Peel treatment during the same appointment! Most people consider fine lines and wrinkles to be the main signs of aging but did you know that dark spots & sun damage inhibit your youthful glow? Does your skin sag and have a rough texture? The VI Peel combined with Botox targets ALL signs of aging. Botox treats dynamic wrinkles on your face, while the VI Peel treats static wrinkles, sun damage, skin texture, and skin laxity.
TOXBOOSTER Benefits:
- Improves rough texture and dullness
- Increase collagen production
- Lifts sun damage and dark spots
- Improves skin sagging and elasticity
- Reduces fine lines and wrinkles
We know that Botox works wonders on fine lines and wrinkles around the eyes, forehead, and in between the brows. But what about the rest of your skin? Combination therapies combine multiple modalities, injectables, and topicals (such as peels and skincare products) to deliver anti-aging results simultaneously. A combination therapy can improve wrinkles, texture, dark spots, sun damage, and skin laxity faster and more effectively over a shorter period of time.
In a clinical study, patients saw:
60% decrease in wrinkles (vs 37% with neurotoxin alone)
70% improvement in skin tone and texture.
Pre Treatment Instructions
- Prior to your treatment please make sure you have not been taking aspirin, ibuprofen, or any other blood thinning medication or supplement for 5-7 days.
- Please do not consume alcoholic beverages at least 24 hours prior to treatment (alcohol may thin the blood and increase the risk of bruising)
- Please come to your appointment with clean skin, free of any make-up or lotions/creams.
Post Treatment Instructions
- Remain upright for 4 hours after injection, keeping your head above your heart.
- Exaggerate facial expressions in treated areas for 1 hour after injection.
- Tiny bumps and marks at the injection sites usually disappear within a few hours.
- With any injection procedure bruising is possible; if it occurs apply ice to area for 20 minutes. You may also use an OTC topical Arnica product.
- Headaches can occur after BOTOX® treatments. If you have a headache we recommend you avoid aspirin or aspirin-containing products. You may use Motrin, Tylenol, and/or cool compresses. If the headache is unrelenting or continues to get worse, please contact the office.
- DO NOT participate in yoga or other rigorous exercise activities for the 1st 24 hours after treatment.
- DO NOT massage or manipulate injection sites for 48 hours after injection.
- Schedule a follow up appointment (if applicable) prior to leaving the office.
- Results are expected within 3 to 5 days after injection, with maximum effect by 2 weeks.
Is Botox® Safe?
BOTOX® procedures are completely safe when performed under proper sterilization and sanitation guidelines. These guidelines include the following:
- All needles should be new and sterile for each client.
- All equipment and supplies should be pre-sterilized and disposed of in a sanitary manner.
- Gloves should be new for each client and changed periodically during the procedure.
- The room or treatment area should be in an area free from other contaminants.
West End Plastic Surgery adheres to the most stringent sterilization and sanitary guidelines.
Botox® Injections For Excessive Sweating
For those that suffer from excessive underarm sweating (hyperhidrosis), Botox® is an effective treatment. Once injected to the underarm, the neurotoxin will block the nerves that are responsible for sweating. Watch the video below to learn more.
Treating Teeth Grinding With BOTOX® Injections
Botox® can also be an effective treatment for Bruxism (excessive teeth grinding). In this case, Botox® is injected into the chewing muscles and can block them from contracting, which relieves the grinding. Learn more by watching the video below.
Calf Reduction With Neurotoxins
Botox® is unique in that is can also be utilized to contour the calves. When injected, Botox® uses controlled atrophy to create a smoother contour of the calves and can be an alternative to surgery. Learn more by watching the video below.
Risks of Botox® Injections
Although there are risks, they are rare. Injection site redness, swelling and bruising is possible and temporary if they occur. Eyelid droop, asymmetry, and lack of effect are also rare occurrences. One can have an allergic reaction to BOTOX®. Those taking certain antibiotics are at risk for an adverse reaction. Anyone who is taking an antibiotic is advised to make your provider aware of this before being injected with BOTOX®. Women who are pregnant or breastfeeding are advised to postpone BOTOX® injections until their little ones are no longer dependent upon them for nutrition.
Schedule A Consultation
If you are interested in BOTOX injections, contact West End Plastic Surgery. Men and women who want BOTOX come to D.C. from Alexandria, Arlington, Reston, and other surrounding areas. You can request a consultation online to discuss your cosmetic goals, or call us at 202-785-4187 to schedule a consultation with one of our expert injectors! Our practice serves Washington D.C. and surrounding areas.
