Botox for beginners

Dr. Robert A. Guida, MD., F.A.C.S., says that more than ever before, doctors and patients are turning to injectables rather than more costly and invasive procedures to achieve a youthful appearance. Why? Aside from all the recent celeb Botox confessions (Courtney Cox, Simon Cowell and Vanessa Williams to name a few), injectables are far less costly — ranging from approximately $600 to $1,000 in comparison to surgeries starting around $8,000. But, before you go running to the nearest doctor’s office for a little “wrinkle relaxation” courtsey of the needle, Dr. Guida has a few pointers to make sure first timers know what to expect.

Doctor Specifications. Today, a lot of professionals have added injectables to their repertoire (dentists?! OBGYN!?). Dr. Guida warns that for both safe and effective results, the best doctors to administer a Botox boost is facial plastic surgeons or dermatologists who have experience operating on the face. They will be more familiar with the position, location and function of the muscles, so they know the exact place to make the injection. And, for the best results, the correct placement of the Botox injection is critical.

Instant Gratification? Don’t be surprised if you glance in the mirror without noticing an immediate difference. Dr. Guida says that it may take up to 48 hours to see results and up to 14 days for the full effect to sink in. So don’t go running back for a touch up until the Botox has had time to work its magic. However, Dr. Guida does encourage patients to return after two or three weeks for a small touch up if necessary. Feedback is essential so the Botox injection can be fine tuned and for the individual.

Painless “Pinch”. Does it hurt?! “Expect to feel a pinch, about the equivalent to a bee sting.” If you’re concerned, Dr. Guida recommends putting numbing cream on the area 10 minutes prior to the injection. A topical numbing cream and/or ice prior to an injection will minimize the pain significantly.

Lunch Time Procedure. Patients can return to work immediately after. There maybe the appearance of a small bump at the injection site that lasts 10-15 minutes. The makers of Botox do recommend that users ***DO NOT *** lay flat for four hours after the injection so the Botox doesn’t migrate. But, Dr. Guida says not to sweat it…he’s taken a yoga class 30 minutes afterwards. Downward dog didn’t cause any interference!