5 Things You Should Know Before Your Botox Appointment6 min read
Dr. Phillip Chang
Board Certified By The American Board of Plastic Surgeons.
Voted Top Plastic Surgeon in Loudoun, Virginia
Offices in Leesburg, Virginia.
Botox has been heralded as the “fountain of youth,” helping millions to achieve a more youthful, radiant look. In 2017 alone, more than 7 million Botox injections were administered.
With precise injections, Botox helps reduce muscle activity and tensions that cause wrinkles, crow’s feet, or the “angry elevens” between the eyebrows. These injections take just minutes to administer, and require little to no recovery time.
Considering Botox to help you look your best? Here’s 5 things you should know before your first appointment.
1. You Need To Like The Office And Staff
When considering Botox injections, it’s important to understand that you may not just be signing up for a one-off injection. It’s recommended that you return every three to four months after the initial injection for additional “touch ups” and to ensure healthy healing.
As in any medical-aesthetic procedure, you get what you pay for. So invest in an office with both an atmosphere and staff that make you feel comfortable and safe the entire time. Finding the right office is crucial to your success with Botox. Many offices like Aesthetica offer free consultations as a first appointment – it’s a great opportunity to get to know the office and staff!
Professionalism and cleanliness are the top two things to look for when searching for a cosmetic surgery office. You should take a tour of the office before officially scheduling an appointment. Offices that are kempt and tidy should pique your interest, and should be reflected in the attire and conduct of the staff.
The best way to ensure you’re getting the best quality care and price is to get to know the office you’re considering. Research is your best tool to helping you secure the most tailored and relaxing experience for you!
2. A Good Surgeon Will Advise You
The right cosmetic surgeon will be able to help guide you to make the best decision for your skin type and desired look. When looking for a cosmetic specialist, it’s important to consider what qualities and knowledge are necessary for a successful visit.
Your cosmetic specialist should be privy not just to anatomy, but also posses extensive knowledge of the injection type itself, the equipment used, and the techniques practiced in any given cosmetic situation. No two bodies are the same, and an experienced surgeon will know how to best navigate and perform any desired procedure through the different variations of anatomies.
Dr. Chang at Aesthetica Cosmetic Surgery & Laser center is a diamond Allergan provider of Botox, which means he’s achieved the highest level of expertise. When he works with clients, he may recommend a combination of Botox, wrinkle relaxers, or dermal fillers so you get the best results.
3. Avoid "Too Good To Be True" Deals
Again, Botox is one of those “you get what you pay for” procedures, so you should be wary of offers or deals that seem too good to be true. Botox is not necessarily a one-time treatment and hovers at an upper-middle price range. It’s also a procedure that isn’t easy to hide if it’s been “botched.” The price of a procedure will reflect the experience of a surgeon and the care they take in administering injections.
While this isn’t to say you should avoid a good deal, you should be cautious of offices and facilities that offer hard-to-believe discounts. If they are a busy practice, there shouldn’t be any reason to give such deep discounts. Avoid Groupons and huge discounts, as these “deals” may be offering diluted Botox and delivering unsatisfactory – or even unsafe – results.
4. Be Prepared To Ask Questions
You’ve done your research, you’ve found your cosmetic specialist – now what? It’s important to be an informed consumer, and with that comes with knowing what kinds of questions to ask.
How often do they administer Botox injections? One way to measure the expertise of a particular surgeon is how often they conduct the procedure you want. An experienced cosmetic specialist will perform 1 to 3 Botox treatments a week. This is a good indicator for you: a good surgeon won’t be rusty in their skills if they are performing a certain procedure frequently, and you’ll know they are frequently and continuously delivering satisfactory results.
How old is the Botox? You’ll also want to make sure that they product being used is in good condition. Old fillers are less strong and may require larger doses to be effective. Botox is a volatile formula in the sense that it does not have a long shelf life, and only lasts about a day. You should be sure to ask your specialist how old the Botox is before signing on to have it injected.
5. Know What Medications To Avoid
Swelling, bruising, and bleeding at the injection site are not uncommon side effects of Botox injections. Some medications and supplements may increase the chances of bleeding or bruising, and you should always consult your doctor about any medications you may be taking before the day of your treatment.
Ibuprofens (like Motrin, Advil, or Aleve), vitamin E supplements, fish oils, and aspirins affect your body’s platelets and thin your blood, making it easier to bleed or bruise. If you are concerned about bruising or bleeding, you’ll want to discontinue these medications and supplements about 10 to 14 days prior to your treatment. In addition, you can always ask your surgeon to use a finer needle to limit the chances of bleeding at the injection site.
Bonus: Know If You're A Candidate
There is no limit to who can get Botox. While many procedures are usually for those seeking to smooth finer line or early-onset wrinkles, or just a face refresh, Botox is becoming increasingly popular among younger generations as well. Whether you’re just beginning to see expression lines, or you’re a retiree looking for some revitalization, Botox is a simple and effective tool to rejuvenate and uplift aging skin.
Botox is a great tool to help slow the clock down; and when applied correctly, shaves years off the targeted area. Botox slows the break down of collagen by lessening the mobility of the targeted area. This gives a younger appearance and diminishes the signs of aging. Botox is not necessary for those who have yet to see any fine lines or wrinkles appear. Ultimately, it would be unnecessary to have the procedure done when there is no aging to show for just yet!
Ready for smoother, younger skin?
With your research all done, you’re ready to take the next step in booking your appointment. While many licensed professionals may offer the treatments you’re interested in, if you are considering a cosmetic procedure, it is best to consult a cosmetic professional.
We invite you to simply come in for a complimentary consultation with Dr. Chang or one of the cosmetic laser and injection nurses to explore whether you would make a good candidate. To find out more whether Aesthetica can help you, contact us online or at 703-729-5553 to arrange an appointment. Dr. Phillip Chang is a board-certified plastic surgeon in Northern Virginia near Leesburg, Virginia and an expert in a wide variety of cosmetic treatments.
Let Us Help You!
Our office can provide you will helpful information, schedule a free consultation, and walk you through the the many cosmetic procedures we offer.
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