Since 2017, the number of Botox procedures performed has gone up by 3%. It's currently one of the most popular minimally invasive cosmetic procedures in the world.
For many people, it's a wonderful method to hide signs of ageing without going under the knife. People of all ages have this procedure done, for both cosmetic and medical reasons. Since it's non-surgical, it's a simple in-and-out appointment you can fit in on your lunch break.
If you've been wondering: should I get Botox? Then here are 5 things to consider before you book an appointment.
1. Botox Is for People of All Ages
Most people think that Botox treatments are for women who are older and already have wrinkles. But that couldn't be further from the truth. The fact is, people of all ages get Botox injections, even if they're in their 20s and 30s.
Many younger patients choose to use Botox as a preventative measure. By getting injections at an earlier age, you can prevent wrinkles from forming in the first place. It can be an excellent way to keep time at bay.
Plus, men aren't immune to ageing; they go through the same changes that women go through. Everyone is subject to not feeling their best when they see evidence of ageing, men included.
This is also why we're seeing a rise in men getting Botox treatments. Today, it's becoming more acceptable for both genders to get cosmetic procedures for rejuvenation. So if you're a younger man, don't feel self-conscious about being interested in Botox, since it's a good treatment for anyone who wants to fight the signs of ageing.
2. It's Safe, Despite the Bacteria Used
Botox is an injection of botulinum toxin, a type of bacteria found in Clostridium botulinum. You may know of the serious illness "botulism", which results from some canned foods; this is the same bacteria. Symptoms of botulism include paralysis, nausea, trouble bleeding, and difficulty speaking.
While all those symptoms sound frightening, Botox is actually very safe if administered by a trained professional. It's been approved by the FDA, which means the injection poses very little threat to your well-being.
With that being said, you need to ensure you have a professional do your treatments, not some housewife at "Botox parties", which are becoming popular nowadays. Botox involves needles, piercing of the skin, and many delicate nerves, so one wrong move can spell very big trouble. Plus, many of these parties use knock-off versions of Botox, which may have harmful substances in them.
3. It's Not a One-Off Treatment
Some people believe that Botox is a one-off treatment and they'll have an appearance with fewer wrinkles forever. While Botox injection's effects can last quite a while, it'll eventually wear off. After 3 to 6 months, you'll notice wrinkles around the injection site(s) again.
Remember how Botox is compromised of the botulism bacteria? In the treatment form, it causes the muscles in the injection site and surrounding areas to relax and stop contractions. As time goes on, the treatment loses its effects, and your wrinkles reappear when your muscles contract again.
If you want to keep the appearance of your wrinkles to a minimum, you'll want to go back for repeat treatment. If you don't have that much extra money to spend in the long term, you might want to consider this, since you'll eventually have to go back for more injections.
4. Botox Is Quick and Easy
With many other cosmetic procedures, you have to go in for lengthy appointments and possibly under the knife as well. When you go through surgery, these procedures come with recovery times, which means you'll have to take time off of work and go through some pain during recovery.
If you want to avoid invasive treatments, Botox is a great alternative to surgery. All you need to do is go into the medical office for an injection and you're on your way. There's no downtime, which means you can potentially schedule an appointment during your lunch break and return to work straight after.
Since Botox doesn't interrupt your busy schedule, it's very convenient, and it barely hurts. If you're afraid of pain, not to worry; you'll feel a small prick. Afterwards, you might have some redness at the injection sites, but nothing too major. Additionally make sure your aware of how to prepare for your procedure.
5. It Can Help Other Medical Problems
Botox isn't used just for cosmetic reasons. In fact, it was first FDA-approved in 1989 to treat blepharospasm, which is when you involuntarily squeeze your eyelids shut. Since the bacteria causes muscles to relax, Botox is successful in stopping this condition.
Since then, Botox has been found to be highly useful in a number of medical situations. For instance, it can help treat migraines and hyperhidrosis (where you sweat excessively).
If you have any of the above medical conditions, Botox can be worth it to try and alleviate your symptoms. Should you be concerned about wrinkles, you can kill two birds with one stone by using Botox to not only smooth them out but also to treat your conditions.
Should I Get Botox?
There's no definitive answer to the question: should I get Botox? The truth is, only you know if the procedure is truly right for you or not.
While a doctor can assess your medical history and give you guidance, ultimately, if your health is all clear, the decision to get Botox is all up to you. With it's minimally invasive and quick appointments, this is a treatment you can easily fit into your lifestyle, even if it's a busy one.
If you'd like to see a doctor for Botox, then please get in touch with us today to schedule an appointment.
