Botox FAQs

If you’re considering getting Botox for the first time, congrats! Botox is one of the most popular options for reducing wrinkles and fine lines, and many consider it an essential part of their self-care routine. If you’re a first-timer, or even if you’ve tried Botox a couple times, it’s common to have questions. Thankfully, we have an expert with answers.

Dr. Malecki at Platinum Medical Spa is an expert Botox injector. In fact, he’s the Medical Director for Allergan Aesthetics, the maker of Botox. When he’s not at his practice, he’s traveling the country training physicians and injectors. Here are some of the most frequent questions we hear about Botox, along with Dr. Malecki’s answers.

At what age should I start getting Botox?

In the past, people thought of Botox as something to get once lines and wrinkles started to appear (typically in their late thirties or forties). Now, many see Botox as a preventative treatment. Botox works by temporarily relaxing the muscles that contract during various facial expressions. With reduced muscle movement, you get less wrinkles and lines. Many people in their twenties are getting Botox to get a head start on preventing lines and wrinkles.

Where should I get Botox injected?

The most common injection areas are the vertical lines between the eyebrows (known as the 11s), the horizonal lines on the forehead, and the crow’s feet lines. However, there are many areas where Botox can be used to enhance facial appearance—read here about 14 areas we treat with Botox. With a comprehensive facial assessment, looking at your unique muscle movements, we decide which areas are best to treat with Botox.

Does it hurt?

Botox is injected with micro-needles. Most people describe the feeling as “a little pinch.” You may have some redness at the injection sites. You may have little bumps and dots of blood that look like mosquito bites. These go away in a half-hour or so. Some people experience bruising or swelling. These reactions are generally temporary and resolve within hours or a few days.

 Is it safe?
Botox has a remarkably safe history. It has been extensively studied and used for cosmetic purposes since 2002. As stated above, common side effects—redness, pain, bruising, and swelling at the injection sites—tend to go away within hours or a few days.

How much does it cost?

Botox is priced per unit, and the number of units needed is unique to each person. Each person’s facial movements are different, which is why we do a thorough assessment to see how the face appears at rest and in motion. Some people may have very strong muscles in their forehead, for example, requiring more units of Botox for optimal relaxation. Generally, men require more units because of the thickness of their skin and muscle tissue.

How long does it take to see results?

With Botox, results are commonly visible within a few days after your appointment. Optimal results appear within a week. Given this timeframe, it’s important to schedule your appointment well in advance of a special occasion.

How long do results last?
For most people, results with Botox last three to five months, depending on how many units are injected, the person’s metabolism, and other factors. Many people like to set reminders for themselves around the three-month mark to assess their face and see if it’s time for another treatment. Once you know how long your results typically last, you can book multiple appointments in advance—three or four appointments per year, for example.