I’ve asked a veteran Botox user to answer questions on the clearly controversial topic of getting Botox in your twenties. Here are the dirty details…
How can I tell if I need Botox?
I wouldn’t say I really needed it at that age but that was the age I was beginning to become concerned with wrinkles appearing.
When did you start getting Botox?
26.
Why did you get Botox so young?
At 26, it was purely for preventative reasons. I was noticing lines across my forehead and I didn’t want them to get worse. Getting Botox made it physically impossible to wrinkle my forehead, so that stopped them from getting deeper.
How often do you get Botox treatment?
Every four months, so three times each year.
Do I need a consultation first?
You should definitely be able to speak with the doctor about anti-aging options and let the doctor help decide if Botox is right for you. If the clinic won't accept consultation appointments, find a different clinic.
How much does Botox cost?
Depends on how much you get. I used to only get my forehead done and it was about $250. You need to call around. Most places charge by the “unit,” so you might pay $15 per unit and get 20 units of Botox, which would cost $300. Some places sell units for $10 each. At other places, it goes much higher. It also matters if you have an actual plastic surgeon performing your treatment or just a nurse. I only get treatment from a board certified plastic surgeon.
How many Botox units do you use?
I used to get 20 units, but I love it so much now I get more. To do my complete forehead, bunny lines, crow’s feet, and a tad under my eyes I would use about 60 units. I even have a small area around my mouth done too, but you definitely want to go with someone experienced for that.
How long does the process take?
About 20 minutes, but the actual injections take only a couple minutes.
Do the Botox injections hurt?
It doesn’t bother me at all, but I do think it’s much harder for someone scared of needles. Just visualize yourself with smooth, wrinkle-free skin and I think it’s a small price to pay.
Do you see the results from Botox treatment right away?
No. It usually takes a few days for the Botox to take effect. I see the result faster now than when I first started. I think it has something to do with the muscles actually being weaker now that I’ve been using it for a while. I’ve also started taking a supplement that makes the Botox kick in faster (I see the result by the next day) and it lasts up to 30% longer. When I take the supplement right before treatment my results last about 5 months instead of 3-4. So while I get more units now, I justify the savings with how much longer it is lasting!
Will I get bruises from Botox?
The only place I have ever bruised is right in the corner of my eye when treating my crow’s feet. It is a really light bruise, like a small dot that’s really easy to cover with make-up.
How do I find a good doctor to perform Botox?
Never go to a sketchy Botox place. (There are tons of them.) I wouldn’t go somewhere that was too cheap. There is such thing as fake Botox. Fake Botox generally refers to Botox that is not sold in the US from Allergan. I’ve heard of some places buying cheaper Canadian products, or worse – from countries other than that. There are other brands (Xeomin and Dysport) that should not be confused with fake Botox. I have used Xeomin and Dysport with the same results.
If you are interested in speaking to a Board Certified Plastic Surgeon about Botox, call us today at 281-317-8179 or schedule your consultation online.
