Understanding BOTOX - Questions to Ask Before Going Under the Knife

You can use this to treat your chronic migraine and your excessive sweating. You can also reduce the appearance of your wrinkles and smooth out your complexion. There have bee 80 million vials sold so far and immense research has been carried out for the last 30 years.

Well, we are talking about BOTOX, the solution to all your facial woes. Although, as enticing as it may sound, getting one done may need a lot more preparation. Here are a few questions you should know about before opting for the procedure:

1. What is BOTOX?

It is a neurotoxin that is obtained from the bacterium Clostridium botulinum, which can be injected intravenously or intramuscularly. It is used to treat several medical and cosmetic surgeries.

2. Who should do your surgery?

The most important part of your journey will be finding the right person to guide you and perform this operation. Make sure you have done significant background research before finalising, put your social media skills to good use and see if your shortlisted doctors have an account on Instagram. Always ensure that you get this procedure done by a trained practitioner.

3. How long does it take before the effects are visible?

It usually takes about two weeks before you might be able to see the results. It is advised that you wait at least that much time before rushing to your doctor as this will give them significant time to see if they need to treat anything.

4. What to avoid before the procedure?

Avoid taking any blood thinning medications such as Aspirin, ibuprofen, Vitamin E, Fish Oil etc. This will reduce any possible bruising that you may get post the operation. Also, alcohol is not recommended.

5. What to do during the procedure?

Do not wear any makeup, your skin is wiped clean before the doctor will inject the BOTOX. Also, it is advised to use an ice-pack before, during and after the surgery.

6. What to avoid after the procedure?

• BOTOX is injected into a specific muscle on your face. Rubbing or massaging the affected area may spread it to other muscles. Wait at least 24 hours before touching your face.
• Avoid doing any strenuous activity like exercising.
• Avoid drinking Alcohol.
• Avoid facials and other such activities for over 24 hours
• Avoid Blood-thinning medications as advised before the procedure.

7. What to do if you get a bruise?

• Usually, a bruise can be treated with tropical Vitamin K or A ica.
• Green or Yellow concealers can help hide the marks.
• V-beam or KTP treatment can be done to remove the bruises faster.
• If you are unsatisfied with the final outcome, do visit your doctor for further touch-ups.
• Immediately consult a doctor if you have any side effects.

It is extremely important to understand the stakes that are involved before opting for BOTOX. You should ideally wait three to four months before you go for a touch up as the effects of the previous surgery would have worn off by then and it would allow your practitioner to see what needs to be done.