What You Need to Know About Botox

The Growing Trend of Botox

Botox is the most popular cosmetic procedure performed in the US. Approximately six million procedures are performed every year and over time the numbers seem to be growing. Before deciding to have a shot of Botox, it is important that you understand as much about the procedure as possible. Here, we’ll cover everything you need to know about Botox.

Botox – An Injectable

Botox is the brand name for a toxin produced by the bacterium Clostridium botulinum. It is injected into the face and neck muscles to treat wrinkles, temporarily erase horizontal lines on the forehead, crow’s feet and vertical frown lines. It also softens smoker’s lines along the mouth, lifts the sagging edges of the mouth and softens vertical neck cords. The treatment does this by blocking signals from nerves to the muscles so that the facial muscles that contract hundreds of times a day are slowed down completely, effectively ridding your face of fine lines.

Minimal Discomfort is Endured

Botox injections are not painful and in a lot of cases, only a small discomfort will be felt. However, if you’re terrified of needles, most doctors can give you anesthesia before the procedure or ice to numb the discomfort. The injections take time to kick in. The disappearance of fine lines can be seen in a few days and in two weeks, the complete results will be visible. It’s therefore advised to have your shot taken two weeks before your big event.  You’re also advised to avoid alcohol, aspirin and anti-inflammatory drugs a week or two before the procedure to prevent bruising.  A single shot can last from 4 to 6 months. Both men and women are using and benefiting from Botox.

Botox Treatments Charleston SC

To learn more about the non-invasive and non-ablative anti-aging procedures available to Charleston residents, visit our aesthetic services page. We offer many non surgical options to keep our patients looking as young as they feel! Contact O’Neill Plastic Surgery online or call us at (843) 881-2130 to make your appointment.

A picture of Patrick J. O’Neill, MD wearing his doctor attire.

About the Author

Upon completing medical school at the Medical University of South Carolina in Charleston, SC, Dr. O’Neill completed nine years of residency training. These nine years included a full general surgery and a plastic surgery residency, both at the Medical University of South Carolina, and a hand and microsurgery fellowship at the Kleinert Institute for Hand and Microsurgery. Dr. O’Neill has extensive certifications, training, skills, and knowledge that make him a successful physician who can carry out your next plastic surgery procedure. His expertise and technique will result in the beautiful and natural look you desire post surgery.

Board Certified:
American Board of Surgery
American Board of Plastic Surgery
Sub-Certification in Hand and Microsurgery

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