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If the signs of aging are upon you, you may think of undergoing invasive procedures. Thankfully, you have the option of Botox to turn back the clock and improve your appearance without surgery. Here is a guide to Botox that should answer common questions for you.

What Is Botox?

Approved by the FDA for cosmetic use in 2002, Botox is made from a substance called botulinum found naturally in plants, soil, water, and animal intestines. As you age, the muscles in your face contract more from facial movements that form wrinkles, crow’s feet, and fine lines. When injected into the skin, Botox freezes the facial muscles by blocking the nerve cells so they don’t contract. Botox has also been successful in treating headaches and uncontrollable blinking.

What Happens During a Botox Session?

During a Botox session, the provider inserts a fine needle into the treatment area, which may have been marked prior to injections. While the needle doesn’t go too far into the skin, you have the option of using a numbing gel to make it more comfortable. After the injections, the provider applies an ice pack to control swelling. The whole treatment should take no more than half an hour. Since there is no surgery involved, you can return to normal activities the same day.

What Can You Expect From Results?

You may see results in one to five days after one session, but the full effects won’t usually be noticed until day 14. Botox is not permanent, so it commonly requires sessions spaced three to six months apart to maintain results. Spacing treatments gives you time to review the results effectively and to determine if you need additional injections. Expect to see wrinkles trying to form again before your next session, but these will not be as prominent.

Is Botox Safe?

Botox has been proven to be safe because it is injected in small doses. The FDA reported only 36 cases with negative outcomes between 1989 and 2003, and 13 of those cases had to do with underlying medical conditions. Getting Botox from a professional reduces the risks of side effects because they know the correct dilution. You should avoid getting injections from Botox parties or providers who don’t offer consultations.

Who Can Get Botox?

Not just anyone can get Botox. It is a good idea to schedule a consultation with Dr. Deane to determine if you are a good candidate. He will need to know your medical history, Botox injection history, and any medications you take to ensure there won’t be any negative reactions. If you are pregnant, breastfeeding, have muscle or nerve conditions, have breathing or swallowing issues, or vision problems, you are not likely a candidate.

Botox may not make you look 20 again, but it can help diminish signs of aging without invasive surgery. Dr. Leland Deane at New York Plastic Surgical Group, a division of Long Island Plastic Surgical Group, is here to help you get started on the path to a new you.