Dr. Julio Clavijo-Alvarez is conscientious about educating his patients prior to Botox treatment. Explaining the procedural steps and managing expectations is key to an overall satisfactory patient experience. However, patients of other doctors may not be so lucky. A quick Internet search brings up stories of what people wish they had known before their Botox injections. Dr. Clavijo thought it would be helpful to share some of these observations with his patients.
Research the Person Administering the Injections
Surprisingly, there are gynecologists and dentists that offer Botox treatment in their offices, but are not properly trained to administer the injectable. They may have learned their technique at a weekend course and are under-qualified and inexperienced. Avoid these options at all costs — even if they offer deep discounts.
The person administering your injections should be a board certified plastic surgeon or one of their trusted, experienced staff. It’s perfectly acceptable to ask the surgeon or technician about their training and experience.
Don’t Fear the Needle
The needle that injects the Botox is tiny and nothing to be anxious or stressed about. If you prefer, you can ask for a cold compress to numb the area. However, Botox injections are not painful and do not require any anesthetic.
Avoid Having Treatment the Day of a Big Event
If you want Botox in preparation of a class reunion or wedding, don’t schedule your appointment for the day of the event. It takes a few days for the results to become visible, and you might have minor bruising. If it is your first time having Botox, give yourself a buffer of about a week. If you have it regularly, give yourself three to four days.
Botox Can Treat Hyperhidrosis
Many patients are unaware of the versatility of Botox. For example, it can be injected into the armpits or hands to stop excessive sweating. For more than 10 years, Botox has been safely used to decrease sweat production, and it has received FDA approval for the treatment of hyperhidrosis.
With Extended Use, Botox May Last Longer
Everyone tolerates the injectable differently. However, for some Botox patients, the more treatments they have over time, the less product they need. In general, the secret is to inject the area of interest as soon as you see recovery of the muscle activity. Early intervention will help weakening the muscle. At the end, you will benefit from longer cycles of treatments.
Schedule a Botox Appointment Today
If you are interested in relaxing your forehead muscles with Botox, please schedule an appointment with Dr. Clavijo to learn more. Call ReNova Plastic Surgery today at (412) 638-2391 to make your appointment.
